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When it comes to leaf blowers, the first thing that comes to mind may be a noisy, gasoline-fueled machine. But today’s leaf blowers have primarily gone electric in recent years, significantly reducing noise, weight and pollution. Whichever one you choose, a leaf blower is a seriously worthwhile upgrade for any homeowner to keep outdoor spaces tidy in a more efficient way.
The best new leaf blowers aren’t only for leaves either. In fact, you can blow away other yard debris, clear patios, walkways and steps, or even blow dust or pollen off your car.
With more top-rated models than ever before, choosing the best one comes down to a few important details. Read on for more shopping tips below, including the best blowers from brands like Worx, Black+Decker and more.
Leaf Blower Buying Guide
Features like speed, battery life and a comfortable design are all important when shopping for your leaf blower. Here’s what you should know.
Power Source: First, decide if you want an electric, cordless or gas-powered leaf blower. Each has its own positives and negatives, and depend on the size of the area you’re using it. Battery-powered models have the advantage of being wireless, but have a limited runtime before needing to be charged. A leaf blower with an electrical cord won’t run out of power, but it will limit how far you can take it (without extension cords). Gas-powered models, on the other hand, can get expensive to operate, with frequent trips to fuel up, not to mention the noise and exposure to fumes. A motor that dissipates heat is also good to have for long uses.
Battery: The electric Lithium-Ion batteries are measured in volts, and normally a 20-volt battery will get you about 15-30 minutes of use. If that’s not enough to cover your yard, keep in mind that these often come with multiple batteries, with the ability to stock up on more. Simply swap them out when it dies and you’ve instantly upped your time.
Speed: For a low speed setting, about 60mph is the usual range, while high speed can hit up to 150mph. Dry leaves and debris blow away pretty easily, but for wet ones like after a rainstorm, that’s where you’re going to need some muscle behind the breeze.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Of course, a more lightweight blower will be easier to control for long stretches of time. Consider going with one under 10 pounds. For height, some models come with extension nozzles to make them more comfortable to use. A handle that’s coated in rubber can also give you a better grip and greater control, while a trigger lock means you won’t have to manually hold the power switch the entire time.
