Different Types Of Leaf Blowers

Leaf blowers, whether powered by petrol or electricity, are stellar tools to have on hand. They make yard cleanup a breeze during the spring. Moreover, these machines can be used around the year to clean sandy decks and dirty walkways during the summer or to get rid of light snow in the winter. Read on to learn more about the different types of leaf blowers to simplify your next purchase.

Handheld leaf blowers

These are the most common types of leaf blowers you will find in households. As the name suggests, these blowers must be carried by hand and can be powered by either petrol or electricity. The electric models are more lightweight (3-6 kgs) and produce less power than their petrol counterparts (4-18 kgs). However, it is best to avoid these models if you have back issues or problems with lifting heavier weights, as they can cause arm fatigue.

Buying tip: Always look for a leaf blower with a bottom-mounted air intake, as it is less likely to tug on your clothes or get in the way, as compared to side-mounted variants.

Backpack leaf blowers

These leaf blowers take the weight out of your hands by placing the motor in a shoulder harness, reducing arm fatigue. These are ideal for larger gardens or small landscaping businesses as they are more powerful than regular handheld blowers. They offer commercial-grade durability and cause less arm fatigue. However, they can also be louder than handheld leaf blowers, which may bother some people.

Walk-behind leaf blowers

These are perfect for heavy-duty commercial jobs and massive properties. They are easy to use and generally gas-powered. They resemble snow blowers, with a motor that rests on wheels, designed to be pushed from behind. This completely takes the weight of the machine off of your shoulders. However, they are also the most expensive of the lot and require diligent care and maintenance, making them unsuitable for homeowners.

Petrol vs Electric leaf blowers

Petrol-powered leaf blowers

You may require a stronger leaf blower if you have a large garden with many trees. Petrol-powered leaf blowers are perfect for this job and are commonly found in homes with large yards and gardens. They are mighty for their size and offer freedom of movement. However, they are also heavier and extremely noisy, which can be a concern for some people. Like all small power tools, these require regular maintenance, which may add to the total cost of ownership.

Buying tip: When shopping for a gas-powered leaf blower, look for one with an easy-to-fill fuel tank, as this will reduce the chances of a spill. Ideally, it is advisable to find one with a transparent tank, so you know when fuel is running low.

Electric leaf blowers

Electric leaf blowers can further be divided into two categories:

Corded electric blowers

These leaf blowers are the smallest and most affordable option, making them ideal for clearing up smaller gardens and yards with no obstacles. Corded electric blowers are tethered to a cord, connected to a power source, and are incredibly lightweight. Also, unlike their petrol-run counterparts, they aren’t too loud and do not produce fumes. Moreover, they provide an endless run time and do not require too much maintenance. However, it is advisable to check the length of the cord before buying one, as a short cord could limit your movement around the garden.

Cordless leaf blowers (Battery powered)

Another popular option in many households today is a battery-powered or cordless leaf blower. This is the most user-friendly, lightweight, and quiet leaf blower for small to medium-sized gardens or yards. It runs on lithium-ion batteries that either need to be changed regularly or recharged from time to time. This leaf blower is also maintenance-free and can be highly versatile. However, it is essential to note that it is not the most powerful one, so consider your needs before purchasing a leaf blower.

Features to consider while buying a leaf blower

In addition to their power and usability, you must also consider the following features when buying a new leaf blower:

• Look for a model that offers both a rounded and a flattened-tip nozzle. This will help you easily clear out loose and embedded leaves.
• Find an electric blower with multiple speeds or a gas-powered blower with variable throttle. This will allow you to adjust the settings depending on the surface you are clearing.
• Keep an eye out for safety and maneuverability features such as a shutoff switch and a helper handle.