What Should You Not Put in a Chipper?

A wood chipper can be a game-changer for cleaning up your yard, but it's not a "put-everything-in" machine. Just because something fits doesn't mean it belongs in your chipper. Especially if you're using an electric wood chipper, knowing what to avoid can save you from costly repairs and keep your weekends free from frustration.

1. Rocks and Stones

It might sound obvious, but rocks and stones accidentally find their way into branches more often than you'd think. These hard objects can quickly dull or damage the blades of your electric chipper shredder, or worse, send dangerous fragments flying. Take a moment to check your yard waste before feeding it into the machine. Even small gravel mixed in with branches can cause trouble.

2. Metal Objects

Electric wood chipper blades are made for shredding branches, not battling metal. Nails left in scrap wood, bits of fencing, or forgotten garden stakes can seriously damage the blades and internal components. Before you chip anything, check for hidden metal. A few seconds of inspection can save you hours of repair.

3. Plastic and Rubber

Your electric chipper shredder isn't designed to process plastics or rubber. Things like flower pots, plastic twine, or garden hoses can get tangled in the blades or melt, creating clogs and even releasing unpleasant fumes. Stick to plant-based debris for smooth operation and a safer work environment.

4. Wet or Green Material

A common mistake is trying to chip freshly cut, wet branches or piles of soggy leaves. Most electric wood chippers struggle with these materials, which tend to clump together and block the discharge chute. Let your green waste dry out for a few days before running it through the chipper to help things go more smoothly.

5. Thick, Twisted, or Forked Branches

Standard electric chipper shredder models work best with straight branches that fit the intake size. Thick, gnarled, or multi-branched limbs can jam the machine or cause uneven blade wear. Follow the manufacturer's diameter guidelines and trim down bulky branches before chipping.

6. Vines and Fibrous Plants

It might be tempting to toss in long vines or fibrous plants like ivy and corn stalks, but these materials can wrap around the blade shaft and clog the machine. Electric wood chipper blades are better suited for clean cuts through solid branches, not stringy, tangled plant matter.

Keep Your Electric Chipper Shredder Running Smoothly

Whenever you're prepping your yard waste, take a few extra minutes to inspect and sort the material. Remove stones, metal, and plastics, and try to work with dry, manageable branches. Your electric chipper shredder will last longer, and your yard cleanup will go a lot faster. Plus, always follow safety tips—gloves, goggles, and common sense go a long way.

A Smarter Way to Chip: Yeryork Electric Wood Chipper

If you're tackling a mix of yard waste, not all electric wood chippers are created equal. The Yeryork 15-Amp Electric Wood Chipper is built with real-life yard work in mind. Unlike many standard electric chipper shredder models, it features a powerful 15-amp motor and robust steel blades that can handle tricky materials—including multi-branched, twisted, and even damp limbs.

Where many chippers struggle with wet leaves and tangled branches, Yeryork's design helps reduce clogs and keeps the machine running efficiently. Its compact frame, easy mobility, and quick-assembly design make it perfect for home users who want pro-level performance without the hassle. Plus, with overload protection and a user-friendly feeding chute, it's built for both safety and convenience.

Whether you're clearing up storm debris or doing regular yard maintenance, the Yeryork electric wood chipper takes the hassle out of the job, letting you get back to enjoying your yard instead of wrestling with your equipment.