Are you casting around for the best leaf blower? Well, you have come to the right place! Would you prefer a corded electric blower? Do you want a leaf blower with a variable or adjustable speed? How about an adjustable handlebar and a deck washout feature? After 240 hours of research, we can help you to choose the ideal leaf blower for you.
If you are in the market for the best leaf blower, there are certain factors you should consider before purchasing. Firstly, you should determine what type of fuel you want to use, what CFM is perfect for the job at the hand, and whether there is a need for a handheld, backpack, or wheeled option.
Top 10 Leaf Blowers We Recommend
1. DEWALT DWBL700 Elec Blower
Features
- Model: DEWALT DWBL700
- Power Source: 120V AC
- Motor: 12 amp
- Max Air Speed: 145 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 409 CFM
- Weight: 9.8 pounds
- Decibel Rating: 69dB
- Durability: 3 times the motor life (vs Toro 51619), also impact-resistant Xenoy housing with pro warranty
- Speed Control: There are variable speed trigger and speed lock.
- Attachments: A flat concentrator for stubborn debris, it increases airspeed to 189 MPH and also 1″ round concentrator for blowing out holes and crevices in masonry, it increases airspeed to 210 MPH.
- Performance: 409 CFM & 145 MPH
- Warranty: 3 years
Summary
In our four years of leaf blower testing, the DEWALT DWBL700 Electric Blower has been the most powerful electric blower we have used. The DeWalt has designed a unique leaf blower that can be operated in different environments. There is an unmatched power as it is operated at 12 amps. It also features an ergonomic design and top wind speed. DWBL700 can serve both indoor and outdoor, which is going to satisfy the needs of many people.
This leaf blower can be operated by both beginners as well as professional blowers. In this model, there is a standard round nozzle that is efficient enough to blow debris at 409 CFM of air volume but the speed has been rated at 145 MPH, and with this great combination you will be able to complete the work on time. It features a flat concentrator nozzle which results in raising the speed of air in the device to 145MPH and it is meant to deal with the larger and stubborn debris indoors as well as outdoors.
The measurement of this leaf blower is 17 x 17 x 11 inches and it operates at 12 amps. It can be considered as the best option for those seeking to purchase a blower for the first time or maybe for them who wish to upgrade. What matters is the performance and protection for interiors as well as exteriors!
DWBL weighs 9.8 pounds and so it can be termed as an ideal one as it is lightweight – you will be able to operate it easily and for a longer period of time. Besides, it has been picked as electric power over the other modes to boost the power requirements for the consumers. By selecting this type of leaf blower, it will help you from the hustle of mixing, handling cans, and combustibles – it ultimately results in weight savings.
No tool can do such quick work of a big mess just like this leaf blower. It is designed especially for job site conditions and also helps to eliminate the hassles that come into contact with gas-powered equipment. All such features make this leaf blower capable enough to be operated by the contractors who have been ignoring gas-powered devices. All such services bring flexibility as the surfaces will be left clean.
Pros
- Powerful Performance
- Ergonomic Design and Comfortability
- Speed Control
Cons
- Loud Noise
- Cord
Pro Tip
- A speed lock will allow you to lock a specific set only and then use it for the entire cleaning.
2. Toro 51619 Ultra Electric Blower Vac
Features
- Model: Toro 51619
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Max Air Speed: 250 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 350 CFM
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
- Decibel Rating: 96 dB
- Warranty: 2 year
Summary
This leaf blower is lighter, quieter, and stronger.
If DEWALT DWBL700 Electric Blower is not available or you are willing to invest in a blower with ultra-features, we also like Toro 51619 Ultra Electric Blower. It has a superior airspeed of 235 mph up to 390 CFM air volume up to move a large number of leaves easily. The Toro 51621 is a combination of a blower, vacuum, and leaf mulcher in one leaf blower.
While it is a compact model but still it extends to a generous 41 inches in length. Toro 51621 is closer to the ground so that it is easy to power through the yard, driveway, and patio cleanup quickly. As it is an electric leaf blower so it enables you to clean your entire yard without running out of battery power or gas. But then it also means that this leaf blower has to be plugged in and with this, your movement range will get limited than the cordless model.
Just because of a metal impeller, it cleans leaves and debris into fine pieces and further, it will be easy to bag and haul away. While it is a leaf blower clocked a max airspeed of 250 mph so it is known as the fastest of all leaf blowers in our line-up. It indicates that it can push leaves as well as debris farther than any leaf blowers. Such type of leaf blowers features variable speed control dial so it is easy for you to adjust the speed as per the desired task. For instance, during movement of air over sawdust, flowers or anything else would not get scattered, a low airspeed can be set, much more.
In order to make the machine capable of a variety of purposes, there are multiple air tubes in the main tube and moves the debris from your house. It also features a power insert tube that helps to create piles and windrows, on the other hand, the concentrator tube will be narrow and effective enough to move the debris out of the cracks as well as edging.
Though its cord is few feet long this model is designed in such a way that it can connect with an extension cord so that you are able to cover a greater distance. This leaf blower weighs around 7 pounds and so it would not be a problem for most people to carry this leaf blower.
A noteworthy feature is that Toro 51621 produces 96 dB of noise which is average for a leaf blower in the whole market. Do not forget to attach the cord storage hook and wrap the extension cord around the blower as soon as you are done with the job. There is also a rugged metal impeller in order to have high-quality munching and gain better control with the variable speed motor.
Pros
- It has the fastest air speeds than any leaf blower
- Perfect sweeping and vacuuming
- The metal impeller is durable
- Leaves and twigs are finely mulched
- A simple conversion required to vacuum mode
Cons
- No cushion handles
- Heavy
- Lacks an anti-vibration function
Pro Tip
- There are 3 tubes for multiple individual uses.
3. Greenworks 24012 7 Amp Single Speed Electric Blower
Features
- Model: Greenworks 24012
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Max Air Speed: 160 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 150 CFM
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Decibel Rating: 69.3 dB
- Warranty: 4 years
Summary
We like this Greenworks model because it features a brushless motor and it helps to clear leaves as well as debris quickly. Greenworks 24012 would not produce a single ounce of carbon into the air and it turns into a prime aspect for the people to have this product. There is a warranty period of 4 years which shows that the manufacturers are confident enough that this product is efficient enough.
The safety code lock will help to prevent disconnection while you are operating it and results in to save your time as you will connect it back. It is specially designed for those people who are actually tired of starting a gas leaf blower.
Remember one important thing that this leaf blower will get a bit to vibrate when you are holding it. This can lead your hands to feel a bit tired after using it for a longer period of time. The best part of having this leaf blower is that it is environmentally friendly. This machine can be considered ideal enough for those people who wish to just plug and start operating.
Pros
- There will be Good value for its price
- It features a safe cord lock
- Environmentally friendly
Cons
- There is a narrow air stream
Pro Tip
7 amp motor for zero carbon emission and it will result in environmentally friendly.
4. WORX TriVac WG500 Electric Blower
Features
- Model: WORX TriVac WG500
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Max Air Speed: 210 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 350 CFM
- Weight: 8.4 pounds
- Decibel Rating: 70 dB
- Warranty: 3 year
Summary
At the first glance, this leaf blower might look a bit strange as it has a wide and flat nozzle that has been angled at the end and also a long, slender main body. One can easily use a single hand just because the blower it is balanced as well as the angled nozzle.
While operating this leaf blower it should be perfectly positioned and you need not put any extra effort. For instance, if you are very tall then you have to adjust your stance a bit to get the nozzle at the correct height and angle – with the help of a lever, it can be changed between a blower and a vacuum. Most of the leaf blowers have separate parts that are actually attached to be used as a vacuum or a leaf blower but there are no separate parts on the TriVac.
Here the nozzle of the blower is placed directly underneath the vacuum tube. All you need to do is to move the lever at the main body and then it will convert from a blower into a mulching vacuum and back again. While it can be considered as easy to carry because this leaf blower can be nicely balanced and also it turns into swing from side to side with the help of one hand only.
As the vacuum tube has been angled upwards so it will be easier to get this leaf blower under shrubs, decks, tables, etc. – it can be done without bending down. It can result in quite a helpful feature if someone has a back issue. WORX TriVac WG500 features an adjustable blower speed and the airflow to increase or decrease the blower speed while you are using it. While at the top speed it is efficient enough to blow air at 210 mph – which can be considered enough to move wet leaves, mulch, small branches, and gravel.
For instance, if you are supposed to operate it at any surface other than a lawn or paved walk or driveway then it is suggested that lowering the airflow – so that you do not end up blowing all the gravel or even mulch off from your garden. It also features a metal impeller which might not seem to be important but it has been a major point of failure in most of the mulching leaf vacuums.
Most of the leaf blowers are actually made up of impact-resistant plastic or maybe nylon, though it does not stand up to high impact but is still efficient to crack during the high speed with small rocks or other hand debris. In reality, everyone will get tired of getting more leaves with their leaf vacuum no matter how careful the machine will be operated.
Pros
- Three in one
- All you need is flip the switch to switch modes
- There is an ergonomic design
- Zero-emission
Cons
- The shoulder strap is a bit awkward; the operator should move the lever at the main body.
Pro Tip
To turn this leaf blower into a mulching vacuum.
5. BLACK+DECKER BV6000 High-Performance Blower
Features
- Model: BLACK+DECKER BV6000
- Max Air Speed: 250 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 400 CFM
- Weight: 8.1 pounds
- Decibel Rating: 68 dB
- Warranty: 2 years
Summary
If you wish to have a leaf blower without the variable speed selection then BV6000 is the ideal one to have. Black+Decker BV6000 releases zero emissions at your yard while you are operating it and ultimately results in a reduction of carbon footprint. With the help of 250 mph, this blower is efficient enough to through the leaves and debris. Just because of the high impact metal fan it will prevent clogging during mulching and grinding, up to 16 bags of mulch.
There is also a disposable leaf bag system it results in no hassle of leaf disposal. It also features 2 disposable bags, so all you need is to tie and toss for quick and easy clearance of leaf. The best part of having this leaf blower is that it includes 2-speed selections for the flower beds and efficient enough for matted leaves. The Black & Decker BV6000 Leaf Blower can be considered as the only equipment which has been evolved from the small leaf blower into a portable electric vacuum.
It is a heavy-duty leaf blower and perfect for blowing yard and leaf debris. By this, it will make the vacuuming much easy for you, and while operating this leaf blower you will be able to experience great comfort and also the best experience like never before.
With this leaf blower, there are many accessories that act as advantages while operating this leaf blower, it includes a vacuum tube, blower tube, concentrator, and reusable empty EZ bag. It is also ideal enough to be used at homes because it has a tool-free changing system that will help the process without interruption and also it will take less than an hour to clean your home.
Selecting this leaf blower will be the best idea because once you will charge it then you need not plug it with the socket for the next 4 months approx. The leaf vacuum is ideal to have because it will get rid of a lot of leaves that might be covering your path or sidewalk or garden in a short amount of time.
Pros
- It will be easy to assemble
- There are durable plastic components
- Ergonomic handle
- Quick adjustment
Cons
- It will leave the stick to the mouth of the suction tube.
Pro Tip
It is perfect for clearing the backyards, driveways, decks, sidewalks, and garages.
6. Performance Tool W50063 Compact 600 Watt Blower
Features
- Model: Performance Tool W50063
- Max Air Speed: 75 + MPH
- Weight: 33 lbs
- Decibel Rating: 98 dB
- Warranty: 1 year
Summary
The Performance Tool W50063 is not just a yard-worthy blower but in fact, it is not efficient enough to blow the leaves effectively unless you are not tall or maybe patient enough to bend down and that too for a longer period of time. While it is of the same size as your everyday powered duster but you are not supposed to try it indoors. Secondly, it is highly powerful and also rugged for small work. There is a little engine inside this leaf blower, which boasts 600 watts of power.
In case if you wish to have a small tool to clean off your sidewalks, porches, and patios then this is a great choice. Secondly, it is so light that it can be easily held by everyone in one hand and on the other hand it is powerful enough to blow the leaves off of stone, concrete and wood and such similar objects. Performance Tool W50063 is lightweight and also allows you to operate for a longer period of time without having a strain on the arm or wrists of the user.
For some people, it might be seeming to think that until air comes out of the nozzle then only the leaf blower is perfect. But actually, all they need is something that is efficient enough to blow leaves or the debris away. If you are looking for a blower that is efficient enough to double as a vacuum, has effective blowing capacity and on the other hand, it is easy and convenient to be used, Performance Tool W50063 is perfect for you as per the situation.
There is also a huge handle that results in an easy grip and holds. It will be easy to maneuver around and during the difficult areas. Importantly, it is a corded tool and so it has to be continuously plugged with an electric outlet of 120 volts in order to operate this leaf blower. But the length of the cord is of standard length so you should have a longer cord if you wish to clear at wider areas. With a corded leaf blower, you need not worry about inhaling the harmful fumes that actually emit while being transferred into the tank.
7. WORX WG518 12 Amp 2-Speed Leaf Blower
Features
- Model: WORX WG518
- Max Air Speed: 250 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 400 CFM
- Weight: 13.25
- Decibel Rating: 82 dB
- Warranty: 3 years
Summary
If your lawn is too large for leaf cleanup, we recommend WORX WG518, which offers 12 amperages of power and you will be able to handle the toughest and even heaviest of yard debris. This leaf blower is efficient enough to produce wind speeds that range between 160 to 250 mph. This helps to put the WG518 ahead of the other leaf blower as far as airspeed has been concerned in electric leaf blowers, it is also considered as the blower expelling the fastest air. With this blower blowing as well as a vacuum can be done easily with the help of a two-hand operation so there is no room to be worried about the smelly fumes.
On the other hand, there will be no hassle or efforts for mixing the fuels in order to operate this machine. All you need is plug it up and off for the work, it is that easy. It also features a mulch ratio i.e. 16:1. There is also Tool-free switching between vacuum and the blower within a few seconds. This leaf blower features a noise rating of 82 dB, it can be considered standard for similar electric handheld blowers. G518 is manufactured with handheld design, it shows that it was made with portability in the mind.
For instance, if you are willing to have three best tools in one then Worx WG518 offers two-speed options as well as a blowing speed which is up to 250 miles per hour, the easiest vacuum setup, and also a mulcher that can shred 16 bags of debris down into one. There is an efficient attached mulching bag for one bushel of shredded leaves and on the other side, the tube can be attached easily with one hand. With the help of dual-speed adjustments, there will be more control which will be perfect to clear out sidewalks, decks, patios, parking areas, steps, and also small yards.
8. BLACK+DECKER LSW221 Lithium Cordless Sweeper
Features
- Model: BLACK+DECKER LSW221
- Max Air Speed: 130 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 100 CFM
- Weight: 3.7 lbs
- Decibel Rating: 66 dB
- Warranty: 2 year
Summary
Have you ever wished to have something which is more than a broom that will sweep away all the dust, dirt, and small debris? Then you are not supposed to have a full-fledged blower but all you should have something with less air volume and somewhat the same air velocity. This leaf blower or sweeper will come in three parts (Not including the battery and charger). Ideally, there are a motor and two blower tubes. It will feature a single-speed unit which is ideally driven by a brushed motor.
Most of the common tasks such as blowing out your garage and also the back of the pickup truck can be easily done with the help of Black+Decker 20V Max. Many of the leaf blowers have the air intake at the bottom whereas others (like the Black+Decker sweeper) have it at the side. It is one of them which likely to get the clothing sucked in the intake is the bottom-mounted type. Also, the bottom intakes might have their own suction problems with clothing (For instance, wearing an untucked long-tailed shirt).
As the air intake is on the left side of the leaf blower so while you are operating at the right side so there are greater chances of blocking the air intake with your pant leg. When the intake will touch your leg then the airflow, as well as volume, will cut down by about half. It will result into a problem if you wish to keep the airflow or the volume constant and also avoid overheating the motor and on the other hand, keep the blowing debris moving.
This leaf blower is extremely light as well as easy to operate and also durable – On the other hand, approximately 120 CFM of air moved all the dust from the surface, small dried leaves, small debris from my decks, furniture, outdoor rugs, garage, pickup truck bed and much more. This blower also features a thumb mounted on and off switch ergonomically which is placed at the top of the handle where it is a bit easy to operate.
Lithium-Ion batteries feature no memory loss technology, it makes standard on all cordless tools. Generally, the runtime is dependent on the battery’s Ah i.e. Amp-hours or milliamp hours, and also the electrical “load” that the motor experiences. While if the leaf blower has a higher load then the less battery life which means it has to be changed often.
Just because of its 20V Lithium-Ion and 1.5 milliamp battery it can easily crank out 8 minutes of constant use just before the battery is completely dead. But 1.5 milliamp Lithium-Ion battery was actually very easy to insert into the battery storage slot which is near to the bottom of the sweeper or the leaf blower.
Pros
- The ergonomic light design and cordless function will eliminate the hassle of cords and hauling heavy equipment.
- Premium 20V max lithium-ion 1.5Ah battery retains to charge for up to 18 months
Cons
- It is believed that gasoline-powered leaf blowers produce more sweeping that the battery run versions
Pro Tip
Designed for hard surfaces such as driveways, lawn edges, etc.
9. Toro 51585 Power Sweep Electric Leaf Blower
Features
- Model: Toro 51585
- Max Air Speed: 160 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 155 CFM
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Decibel Rating: 63.5 dB
- Warranty: 2 year
Summary
For instance, if you are looking for a high-quality leaf blower as well as it should be reasonable with the price then you should have a look at Toro 51585 Power Sweep Electric leaf blower. This leaf blower incorporates a powerful airspeed, also this product makes shorter and easy work of cleaning your sidewalks, patios, and driveways from the unwanted leaves and debris from the desired surface. Also, it consists of a lightweight construction so it is easy to operate and move it from one place to another without any much effort.
While Toro is an American Company that actually started its business of manufacturing lawn equipment in the year 1914. This brand has more than ten decades of experience and so it is known for its products performing flawless clearance of the surface. When it comes to the Toro 51585 power sweep electric leaf blower, this product is another noteworthy because of high-quality equipment from this brand.
Just because of the better-designed product you do not need an extra shoulder strap because this type of product will be quite easy to maneuver. While it is a lightweight product but still this leaf blower does a better job than other leaf blowers in order to clear away the debris. As it features a 7A motor, this unit has 2 different airspeeds.
For instance, you might be facing some problems with the tight corners which actually require ultimate precision and so you can go with the 130 MPH airspeed. But when you are supposed to clean a much larger area (for example courtyard) then it also comes with greater 160 MPH airspeed.
With the help of the handle, one can switch from one speed to the other. Generally, it can be operated with your hand which makes it easy in order to choose an airspeed of your choice or desire. To avoid managing the cord from coming in your way there is a small hook on this leaf blower which will help to keep it intact most of the time.
During the operation of the Toro 51585, it makes a bit of noise as compared to the gas-powered leaf blowers. While it comes with a powerful motor, still the noise which has been produced by this unit will make sure that you do not have to operate it while wearing the earbuds.
Pros
- Just because of the 2 different airspeeds it makes the Toro Power Sweep Electric leaf blower a versatile unit.
- The 2-year warranty will provide peace of mind to the customers
- Lightweight constructions will be helpful for the new operators as well as the experts
Cons
- However, the airspeed is not good enough for the high-end commercial jobs
Pro Tip
Perfect leaf blower for cleaning small to medium-sized home space with ease.
10. Hitachi RB24EAP Gas Powered Leaf Blower
Features
- Model: Hitachi RB24EAP
- Max Air Speed: 170 MPH
- Max Air Volume: 441 CFM
- Weight: 8.6 lbs (Dry weight)
- Decibel Rating: 96.6 dB
- Warranty: 7 year
Summary
The Hitachi RB24EAP is known for compact gas-powered leaf blower which is efficient enough to clear leaves and also debris from your yard and on the other hand it is backed by an impressive seven-year consumer warranty. It is capable enough to blow the debris 18 feet in somewhat 16.54 seconds; this record has been the farthest distance of any of the leaf blower. While this blower is compact, but it will push 441 cubic feet of air with the help of its tapered nozzle per minute at a velocity of 170 mph but this can be considered lower than some of the other models and it will be fine for a small yard.
Just because of the lightweight body of this Hitachi it contributes to its easy handling. For instance, if you wish to put the blower down then it has an auto return switch which resets the power button so the blower can start quickly when you return. Secondly, you will find this leaf blower pretty loud at 96.6 decibels which is ideally comparable to the average lawnmower. The positive side is that with all the leaf blowers it will be best to use ear protection while operating it. However, this model features a low emission engine also with a fuel tank capacity of 17.6 fluid ounces.
Also, like many similar gas-powered leaf blowers, this model has specific needs for the type of fuel it uses. Just be sure that before running this leaf blower you should have a proper 50:1 ratio mix of gasoline to oil. This brand also recommends 89 octane gasoline, which can be easily found at almost any local gas station. It features EPA standards to limit hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and also nitrogen oxides in the air.
The downside is that it does not have vacuum functionality, there is a lack of anti-vibration technology and also the handle is not cushioned, so no doubt the lightweight will make it easy for you but you may get fatigued while using it for some extended time. Just like most warranties, any negligence, improper use of or maybe incorrectly mixing the gas and also the oil voids the agreement but on the other hand you will be covered for an extended time it will be easy to use out of your leaf blower
Pros
- It will blast the leaves further than any of the other leaf blowers in our lineup.
- Maneuver easily
- Low emission
- Very easy to operate
- 13 horsepower commercial-grade engine
- There is an auto return stop switch
Cons
- It is highly loud.
Pro Tip
Just because it produces more powerful air out of the nozzle and that results in an easier job and faster.
Buying Guide
As far as trees shedding leaves is a matter of concern, a leaf blower should be there in order to make the work of amassing the mess, short. But a leaf blower is not only just a do once and you are done with the seasonal landscape machine; in fact, it will be useful all year-round. In fact, the leaf blowers will come in handy for summer’s sandy decks and even spring’s heavy windblown walkways as well as during light snowfall.
Gas Leaf Blower VS Electric Leaf Blower
A most important consideration while deciding whether to have a gas leaf blower or an electric leaf blower is speed, budget, convenience, etc. While in the handheld category, still the gas blowers are considered as the fastest way in order to clear a yard full of leaves. But a noteworthy feature of the best corded electric blowers is that they are powerful enough for many big jobs even though you will have to stick within 100 feet of a power outlet.
As everyone knows that gas handheld leaf blowers can go anywhere but on the other hand they will weigh and cost more than corded electric leaf blowers and also, they are a bit noisier. Moreover, it will also require fueling and maintenance. But the cordless electric leaf blower models will offer less power than gas models and also limited runtime per battery charge. Ideally, these units are light and shall typically weigh around 10 pounds only.
Are you worried? Just because of lots of leaves and a wide area property? Then a wheeled blower packs the most power by far. They will also take up the most storage space and then it can be tough to push as well as control and bear the biggest price tags of all these sectors. Few of the handheld leaf blowers will also inhale the yard debris with the help of a vacuum. Secondly, their small tubes limit how much one can vacuum at once.
Noise Consideration
It will be pretty obvious that an early rising and also a yard obsessed neighbor can surely confirm that you are operating or running a leaf blower which can be really loud. Ideally, the product labels decibels so that it will be easy for you to compare noise levels as you have them.
While some of the communities also prohibit leaf blower to operate during certain hours and others might restrict gas blowers, it is just because they are louder than the electric leaf blowers. So before having any of the leaf blowers, it is utmost necessary to check your town’s regulations or you can do is go to the Noise Pollution Clearing House to get a nationwide list of guidelines. There are certain noise regulations which should be known:
1. Brand: Some countries or towns might have regulations that a list of few brands would only be allowed and some might be banned, so one should follow it properly.
2. Distance: There will be certain regulations that should be followed regarding the property lines you can operate the leaf vacuum.
3. Zones: It is highly recommended that those residential areas that are limited to a certain period of the day for the leaf blower or vacuums must be only used.
Decibels: At times maximum decibel can be only allowed.
4. Seasonal: The time of the day you are supposed to operate the leaf blower is usually season bound.
5. Power: Moreover, the gas-powered leaf blower or vacuum is ideally noisiest and in some areas, they are ban also.
6. Number: At the same time, the number of leaf blowers operated in the same yard, sidewalk, property, etc. can be restricted. Secondly, for a few residential owners, this would not cause any issue but it can affect most of the landscapers and the commercial areas.
In the end, whether it is an electric battery leaf blower or corded leaf blower, they are considered quieter than the gas-powered models. On the other hand, electric engines or motors are not known as loud as combustion engines or motors at a given point.
Protection for Yourself and also for the Surroundings
1. While operating the leaf blower one should wear hearing protection, it is highly important to be done with those models scoring Good or lower in the noise tests at the ear level.
2. Goggles should be worn and dust masks for the protection of the eyes and mouth.
3. Pets and people or any living being should be kept far away from the area you are clearing with the leaf blower.
4. One should avoid operating even the quietest blowers early in the morning or late in the day.
Types of Leaf Blowers
In the market, there are many types of leaf blowers you will get. But the main types are Corded electric, Cordless electric, Gas-powred handheld, Gas-powered backpack, and Gas-powered wheeled leaf blowers. Whereas these machines will be offered in a variety of styles, from handheld leaf blowers to backpack leaf blowers as well as wheeled leaf blowers in order to clear heavy duty debris.
Ideally, after knowing so many types it will be a bit tough for an average person to select which one would be ideal as per the situation and clearance area. So, let’s have a view of different types of leaf blowers and which one would be convenient for you.
1. Corded electric leaf blowers
For instance, if your work area is of the tight spaces then an electric blower is ideal for you and also if you do not wish to inhale toxic exhaust fumes. As a corded electric leaf blower might seem to be quite old but it has been recrudescence in popularity currently.
The corded models are very light in weight than the battery-operated units, a prime reason why you should prefer corded models. Just because of this reason, it will reduce the risk of wrist strain no matter how long you operate such kind of blower. The structure of such a corded electric blower is simple and ultimately it results in an affordable product than both cordless and gas-powered models.
When your budget is limited as well as you are concern about emissions then an electric blower can be considered the right choice for you as per the situation. Secondly, it is easy to be operated in larger areas also but all you need is a long power extension cord.
Pros
- Close-packed
- Affordable
- Powerful
- Zero emissions
- Less maintenance
- Lightweight
- Ideal for small areas
Cons
- Range is limited
2. Cordless electric leaf blowers
Many faced problems that in a long time to keep the cordless models with their gas-powered counterparts was not possible. But to get a similar performance then the corded model was only left. The prime disadvantage was that the operator had to drag an extension cord around, which resulted in limiting your range of work.
While the Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) and the Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMh) batteries will last a short time. It delivers less power and adding considerable weight. But the positive side is that with the advent of powerful Lithium-Ion batteries, the preference for batteries also changed.
A bridge of gap has been created between clean power and portability by Lithium-Ion battery leaf blowers. For instance, if you wish to have such a quieter leaf blower, emit zero emissions, and still portable enough then a cordless rechargeable will be the best option. All you need to is make sure that you are selecting the Lithium-Ion model. So, it is worth to pay a bit more than having older battery technologies.
Pros
- Close-packed
- Lightweight
- Ideal for small areas
- Zero emissions
- Less maintenance
- Less powerful than plug in an electric leaf blower and gas leaf blower (But wait that is going to change)
Cons
- Heavier than a corded leaf blower
- Mandatory to have multiple batteries, if the clearance is larger
3. Gas-powered handheld leaf blowers
When you are highly serious about your powered gardening tools, then you should have a gas-powered handheld leaf blower. While you might be surrounded by many people who will be looking to have electric-powered leaf blowers, but you should be aware that gas-powered handheld leaf blowers still have some strengths than electric-powered leaf blowers.
The only thing to be concerned about is that the range of electric-powered leaf blowers. However, if you are willing to have an electric model then you will be able to clear till that area only where the extension cord will allow.
In the case of a cordless model, you will be limited by the number of batteries you have with you during the clearance and it consumes much time to charge while operating the leaf blower or afterward. But when you opt for a gas-powered handheld leaf blower, there are many advantages which make the gas-powered models worthy to have it. All you need to run out of fuel and also you have to top it up and keep going. For instance, if you are supposed to be using your leaf blower for more than an hour a day, and clearance area range will be from medium to large.
Pros
- Ideal for larger areas
- Most powerful you can get as per the situation and area
Cons
- High level of maintenance
- Intense noise levels
- Emits exhaust fumes
- It will be dangerous if operated in confined spaces
4. Gas-powered backpack leaf blowers
A gold standard leaf blower for power and usability is known as gas-powered backpack leaf blowers. Whereas it has been designed in such a way that it can be used for extended periods of time, also it features superior ergonomics and harder wearing components. Such type of leaf blowers is rarely used for domestic use. When you are fond of your tools and willing to have the absolute best available in the market then without any doubt you should have a gas-powered backpack leaf blower.
But there are certain drawbacks which should be concerned before having a gas-powered backpack leaf blower. The prime drawback is the cost. Often it will cost you more than double the price of what a handheld gas unit will cost you. While it is a bit costly, also it will be 2 to 4 times larger than any handheld blower on the market.
For instance, if your clearance area is going to be one over a long distance or for more time, then a gas-powered backpack leaf blower will be the right choice as per your situation and also clearance area. Secondly, from an ergonomics point of view, it is better in every possible way.
There will be extra weight on your back but the blower hose super will be lightweight. It will also prevent arm strain after frequent usage. As it features larger gas tanks so it also has a longer range. So, you need not worry if you are supposed to use the leaf blower all day every day for clearance of larger areas, then no other model can take place of a gas-powered backpack leaf blower.
Pros
- Ideal leaf blower for large to larger areas
- Considered as most powerful leaf blowers in the market as per the situation and clearance area
- Best ergonomics will make it easy to use for extended periods of time
Cons
- High level of maintenance required at specific intervals
- Intense noise levels
- Emits exhaust fumes
- It will be dangerous if operated in confined spaces
- A bit expensive than the handheld units
- Bulky and very large
5. Gas-powered wheeled leaf blowers
Well, before you wish to have gas-powered wheeled leaf blowers first decide what will be your budget because it will be the most expensive so it is recommended to wisely consider everything and then decide whether it will be worth investing or not. They are highly powerful and heavy and just because of this reason they function on wheels in order to make it easy to control and also use a gas tank.
Just because of their power there will be chances that it will make a lot of noise and also disturb your neighbors so it is important to check the rules concerning noise levels in your area – the number of hours allowed to use a leaf blower. To give you an idea of how powerful walk-behind leaf blowers or gas-powered wheeled leaf blowers while operating it will not only remove the leaves but also the water as well as difficult waste or rubble.
It is recommended that you should choose one depending on the surface you are supposed to clear, whether it can be bumpy, with large or small leaves, or as per the distance at which you wish to blow or clear them.
Do not forget that walk behind leaf blower or gas-powered wheeled leaf blowers come with different warranties, so get the best deal concerning so that it will be easy for you to replace it or fix it, in case there is a manufacturing defect. Also check all the available features, such as adjustability, so that the third party also can use it easily or safety options.
Pros
- Provides maximum blowing power
- Can easily move stubborn debris
- Ideal for removing standing water
- Great for preparing asphalt for resurfacing
- Can be used for flat roofs for resurfacing
- Best for any other job that requires gale-force winds
Cons
- Just because of their size, it is expensive
- Needs more maintenance as it features more parts and a complex mechanical system
The Bottom Line
If you properly determine your leaf blower needs then you will be able to find one that will be able to use for many years to come. Whether you are highly concerned with budget or the power of the leaf blower there will be one on the list for you.