Depending on your leaf blower, you can either clean the fuel filter or replace it. For example, if you have a side-mount fuel filter, you can clean or replace the felt filter element. However, if you have an inline fuel filter, your only option is replacing the entire unit.

This article will briefly discuss the signs of a clogged fuel filter followed by step by step instructions for cleaning or replacing your leaf blower’s fuel filter.

How to Know When to Clean a Leaf Blower’s Fuel Filter

With more than a dozen common uses, a leaf blower is one of the most versatile pieces of outdoor power equipment you can purchase. Obviously, you can use it during autumn for removing leaves. However, in the winter, you can use it to remove snow.

Likewise, you can clean up grass cutting during the spring and summer months. And, you can use it year-round for cleaning out your house’s gutters and for removing puddles of water, dirt, and other debris.

However you choose to use your leaf blower, it will require periodic and annual maintenance to include cleaning or replacing your unit’s fuel filter as they do tend to get clogged over time.

The most common reason for a fuel filter getting clogged is storing a leaf blower for an extended period with gas in the tank. Elements of the fuel will evaporate over time, leaving behind a thick, sticky residue that can clog the fuel filter.

You will know it is time to clean or replace your leaf blower’s fuel filter if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Trouble starting your leaf blower: Experiencing difficulty starting your leaf blower is the most common sign that you have a clogged fuel filter. A dirty fuel filter will make it challenging to start your leaf blower, and a fully-clogged one will make it impossible.
• Frequent sputtering: If your leaf blower misfires or sputters when in use, a partially clogged fuel filter is usually the culprit.
• Strong odors: If your leaf blower emits strong-smelling fume, that can be another sure sign of a partially clogged or dirty fuel filter.
• Frequent shutdowns: If your leaf blower suddenly shuts down for no apparent reason, that is usually a symptom of a dirty or clogged fuel filter.

How to Clean a Fuel Filter on a Leaf Blower

There are a couple of preliminary tasks to perform before you can clean the fuel filter on your leaf blower.

First, you should drain most of the fuel from the tank before cleaning the fuel filter. And, be sure to give the engine time to cool if you have been using it recently.

The 10 steps to cleaning a fuel filter are as follows:

1. Remove the spark plug’s wire and boot to prevent any sparks.
2. Rotate the choke knob on your leaf blower to its middle position.
3. Locate the fuel filter cover on the side of your leaf blower and remove the screws. (You can check your owner’s manual or look online if you aren’t sure where the fuel filter housing is located.)
4. Remove any loose dirt and debris appearing around the filter using a rag or paintbrush.
5. Pull the fuel filter from the housing and remove the pre-filter from the rest of the unit.
6. Wash the pre-filter using soapy water and place it for about an hour on a rag or paper towel to dry.
7. Remove the felt filter element and either blow it out using a can of air or clean it using a paintbrush. (If you have difficulty thoroughly cleaning it, you might consider replacing the filter element.)
8. Place the filter element and pre-filter back into the fuel filter housing and replace the screws.
9. Reattach the spark plug’s wire and boot.
10. Refill the fuel tank if you plan on using your leaf blower.

How to Replace an Inline Fuel Filter on a Leaf Blower

You will want to make sure the fuel tank has little or no fuel before getting started. And, you will need to let the engine cool down first if you have been using it.

Additionally, to perform this task, you will need to cut about a six-inch piece from a wire coat hanger and fashion a small hook at one end using a pair of pliers. If you do not have a wire coat hanger, any piece of stiff wire will work.

The 11 steps for replacing an in-tank fuel filter are as follows:

1. Remove the wire and boot from the spark plug.
2. Unthread the fuel tank cap and pull its retainer free of the tank.
3. Pull the fuel filter out of the gas tank by using the hooked piece of wire you prepared earlier.
4. Slide the retaining spring away from the filter using wire cutters or a set of needle-nose pliers. (Depending on the particular make and model of your leaf blower, you may need to use a flat-headed screwdriver to perform this task.)
5. Pull the old filter off of the fuel line using a twisting and pulling motion.
6. Install the fuel filter by attaching it to the fuel line.
7. Slide the retaining spring towards the filter to secure it.
8. Push the new filter into the tank.
9. Reinsert the fuel cap retainer into the tank and thread on the cap.
10. Refill the fuel tank if necessary.
11. Reattach the wire and boot to the spark plug.

The following video provides step-by-step instructions for replacing your leaf blower’s inline fuel filter.

Keeping Your Leaf Blower in Working Order

Like any other outdoor powered equipment, leaf blowers require periodic and annual maintenance, and proper storage is key to the proper functioning of the unit.

Monthly maintenance tasks include:

• Removing old gas from your leaf blower’s fuel tank.
• Examining the cables, connections, fuel filter, and air filter.
• Checking and replacing the spark plug and wire as needed.
• Cleaning the exposed portions of the carburetor.

Annual maintenance tasks include:

• Cleaning or replacing filters to include the air and fuel filters.
• Replacing the spark plug and setting its gap.

Proper storage is a must and includes:

• Storing your leaf blower with an empty tank or with fuel-stabilizer added to the tank. (This step is particularly crucial if you plan on storing your leaf blower for an extended period.)
• Keeping your blower out of the reach of small children and pets.
• Storing the unit in a well-ventilated place where fumes can’t come into contact with open flames or sparks.

Leaf blowers equipped with 2-cycle engines use a fuel and oil mixture to operate. However, blowers with 4-cycle engines come equipped with separate tanks for fuel and oil. You should change the oil on a new 4-cycle leaf blower after using it for about 20 hours. Moving forwards, you should change it after every 50 hours of use.

Additionally, at some point in time, you will likely need to rebuild or replace your leaf blower’s carburetor. Rebuilding or replacing the carburetor requires removing the entire air filter assembly, the throttle cable, and fuel lines.

For that reason, you will probably want to have an expert perform this task for you. However, if you like do-it-yourself projects, you can click here for detailed instructions on removing and rebuilding a leaf blower’s carburetor.

The Wrap Up

We hope you enjoyed my article explaining the steps required to clean or replace your leaf blower’s fuel filter. The process is fast and easy, whether you have a side-mounted fuel filter or one that is inline.

If your leaf blower floods you can restart it with these simple steps:

Fuel-Injected Models:

1. Close the choke
2. Pull the gas lever
3. Crank the engine

Carburetor Models:

1. Remove the air filter cover
2. Open the carburetor
3. Pull out the air filter
4. Start the engine
5. Cut off the blower
6. Replace the air filter

A leaf blower is one of those tools that is essential, especially if you have a larger than average yard, and can be used in all seasons. Whether you’ve got a carburetor model or one that is fuel-injected, read over the article below for the tips you need to keep your leaf blower up and running. 

How To Fix A Flooded Leaf Blower (Fuel-Injected)

Today’s leaf blowers are fuel-injected models. This fuel-injection system keeps the average homeowner from making constant repairs or having their blower sent out to the small engine repair person. 

The newer models accomplish this by using a prime pump that only allows a certain amount of gas to enter the chamber. This can prevent flooding but doesn’t cure the problem. The steps to clear the fuel-injected leaf blower are spelled out in the sections below.

Close the Choke to Trap More Air

On the modern yard appliance, the fuel regulation levers are all located close together. There will be a lever or dial that opens and closes the choke.

A choke has the same job as a carb in that it regulates airflow to the fuel. By closing the choke, you trap the air that is inside the cylinder. The following steps will make use of the air compression to help start the flooded engine. 

Pull the Gas Lever and Get Fuel Flowing

Another great thing about the newer model yard machines is that they have a convenient handle with a button that regulates gas flow into the cylinder.

By pressing down the lever, you set a steady stream of fuel into the engine. It would help if you kept this button pushed down until it starts. 

Crank the Engine to Test It

Using this lever and closing the choke, you should attempt to crank the engine several times. After a few pulls on the cord, you will have a better idea of how the engine is doing. 

• If it still has coughing spells, that means that air and gas don’t have a correct mix yet. 
• If there is no spark, there is too much gas or air keeping the machine from making the proper mixture.

How To Fix Your Flooded Leaf Blower (Carburetor)

A leaf blower is a two-cycle combustion engine attached to a mechanical fan. When started, the engine creates a forceful wind that will remove leaves and grass much faster and easier than a broom or rake. 

One of the problems with a two-cycle engine is that it can flood. Flooding is when the air and gas mixture inside the carburetor has become too rich to light.

The reaction from burning fuel is what produces the power to blow the leaves. If there is no reaction, then no work can be done, and that isn’t ever a good thing.

Don’t let it get you down; there is a set of rules to follow to get your blower back in action in no time flat. We’ll cover them all in the sections below. 

Remove the Air Filter Cover 

You’ll need to remove the cover that protects the air filter. The air filter cover is usually held in by a big thumbscrew or a few small screws.

After removing whatever is holding it on, keep those parts close by so you don’t lose them.

Pull Out the Air Filter to Get to the Carburetor

A large part of the reason that there is no combustion is that the filter could be preventing the air from reaching the spark plugs. By removing the filter, you let in air, and this means you’re already helping the gas to breathe.

Take a good look at the filter: It is usually a hard piece of plastic and metal with insides made from a paper material that regulates oxygen flow to the carburetor.

While you have it out, inspect it and look out for a dirty or ripped filter because it could lead to future problems with the engine. 

Open the Carburetor to Let in Some Air

Now that the filter has been removed, you should see a sizable mechanical flap on the carburetor. This flap is connected to the throttle and is what regulates the flow of gas into the engine.

If you are in a hurry, this should be the quickest way to get the right mix of air and gas in the carburetor.

Find something, like a screwdriver, to wedge the flap open. Once the flap is stuck open, the air will have a better chance of igniting a spark. 

Give it a Test: Start the Engine

Use the pull start on the engine to give it a few test pulls. By pulling the cord on the blower, you create a spark that will ignite the gas inside.

It may take several pulls to get the engine to turn over. Other factors besides too much fuel, could keep the engine from turning over. 

• If the carburetor is functioning correctly, everything will work fine. 
• An uneven or halting rhythm means that more adjustments must be made before taking the blower out for yard work. 

Cut Off the Engine and Let it Sit

Now that the engine has fired up, you should let it run for a few moments. Any impurities or imbalances that were present in the carburetor should be fine now.

Once the engine reaches a steady rhythm, it will function much better. Cut the engine and let it sit for a few minutes.

It is important to let the engine cool down before moving on to the next step.

Put the Air Filter Back In

The bolts that you set aside earlier will come in handy for this step. Put the air filter back in, and use the screws you have previously removed to fix it into position.

Make sure that the air filter is free of dirt and debris before placing it back inside the carburetor. Any tiny particles that make their way into the carburetor can mean problems down the line.

Making the Most of Your Leaf Blower

Keeping a log of repairs and maintenance dates isn’t a bad idea. Most manufactures recommend the following schedule for a leaf blower:

• Air filter – Clean every 10 to 20 hours of use. Replace it depending on how often you use it. If it gets heavy use, consider swapping in a new one three times a year. If you only use it occasionally, once a year should do. 
• Engine oil – If your blower is new, do it the first time you replace your air filter. After that, just swap out after every 50 hours of use. 
• Fuel – Drain it monthly and make sure you do so again before storing it for the season.
• Fuel filter – Replace it once a year. Unless you are very mechanically inclined, you might leave this one to a pro.
• Other parts: Spark plugs and carburetors need attention, too. Take a look at your manufacturer’s recommendations for these and maintain them according to those. 

Conclusion

While some machines in your garden shed are only used for a single season, the leaf blower can be helpful for different jobs all year long. This constant use means that it will require more attention than your infrequently-used tools. 

When it comes to fixing a flooded engine, it is only a matter of time before you’ll need to know how to remedy it.

Knowing what to do and how to handle the situation gives you a dependable ally in your fight against the changing seasons and the confidence that comes with knowing you can troubleshoot the machine no matter what the problem is.

These things are very hard to remove, and a standard leaf blower is never truly cut out for blowing them away effectively.

I have often been left with a lack for words after seeing how truly resilient they can be.

So, you will need a blower which is not just reliable but powerful enough to remove the stickiest of pine needles.

But finding a leaf blower which is capable of balancing the two is something quite hard to come by. Even a lot of adept yard care enthusiasts have a tough time picking the one which is right for the job.

So, if you’re facing the same dilemma I might just have the perfect list for you today. The blowers I have listed today are not just my personal favorites but some of the most popular tools in the market.

So what kind of Leaf Blower do you need?

The kind of leaf blower that you will need for the job will depend on the type of tree and yard size you’re dealing with.

In my experience, if it’s just a single small tree, then a portable handheld leaf blower will suit your needs just fine. But for bigger yards with multiple trees, you might have to invest in a bigger and more powerful blower.

The sticky nature of the pine needles makes them one of the hardest to remove. They often cling to each other and onto the grass and will need a good amount of force to remove.

And taller the grass, the harder it gets to find a viable solution for them. Leaves, in comparison, are much easier to deal with as they have a bigger surface area that allows adequate air to flow through and carry them away.

The Top 5 Leaf Blowers for Pine Needles

Because of the reasons mentioned above, you’ll need a powerful leaf blower to deal with this task. The models I’ll show you today are some of the most powerful out there.

Without further ado, let’s get started!

1. Echo PB-8010 Backpack Blower

If you’re looking for a leaf blower that is quite well-rounded and balanced in all departments, then you can rarely find a model better than the Echo PB-8010.

Why go for this blower?

Improved Handling

The Echo PB-8010 is specifically designed to not physically strain the user when it’s in use. It comes with a lot of functional features that I found to be rather user-friendly, and something that even a novice can pick up.

I was able to use the blower for an extended period of time on a mid to large scale yard. As the throttle of the model is located on the tube, it allowed my left hand to be free and grip the blower accordingly to provide more support and control.

Reliable Power

The Echo PB-8010 is one of the more reliable pine needle removal devices out there.

As it’s gas-powered, you know that you’ll be getting a strong engine that can effortlessly blow away the stickiest of pine needles and wet leaves. The device is rated for a maximum air volume output of 1071 cubic feet per minute, which is just amazing for a blower of its class.

Though the max speed rating is quite average at 211 MPH, the increased volume of the air produced more than makes up for it. The Echo PB-8010 will help you get a large yard cleaned up in no time at all, I’m sure.

Customizable speed settings

When it comes to maintaining my yard, I usually prefer going for those tools which come with a lot of customizable features.

Hence, the very fact that the Echo PB-8010 comes with a ‘variable speed setting’ makes me instantly want to recommend it to my friends and colleagues.

Large Fuel Tank

The Echo PB-8010 is designed to support an incredibly large fuel tank. When compared to most of its competitors, this blower boasts a capacity that far surpasses the average model.

The tank is capable of holding about 83.8 fluid ounces, which allows the blower to work for extended periods without having to stop for re-fuels.

The blower is quite fuel-efficient for its size as well, and help you to save up on gas costs in the long run.

What could have been better?

With the pros aside, what truly disappointed me about the Echo PB-8010T is its weight. Weighing in at 24.5 pounds, the blower is quite heavy, and is not the easiest tool to transport.

The bigger fuel tank adds to the overall weight and compromises significantly on the portability of the machine. Though controlling the blower is easy, moving around with it is not.

Anyway, check out the video below if you want to see how this blower deals with pine needles. It’s a bit long, but worth watching if you want to see the PB-8010 in action (pine needle action starts from around 5:00).

Pros

• It has a reliable power output with high air volume that makes any job easier.
• Variable speed settings allow for ease of use and customizability.
• Large fuel capacity will help you to work for an extended period of time.

Cons

• The leaf blower is quite heavy and not as portable as I would like it to be.

Check price on Amazon

2. Husqvarna 580BTS Leaf Blower

When compared to wheeled blowers, backpack blowers are not known to generate an incredible amount of power. However, the Husqvarna 580BTS is one of the very few backpack blower models on the market today that gives its wheeled competitors a run for their money.

It is loaded to the brim with power and efficiency.

So why buy this product?

Efficiency

Now, when compared to the Echo PB-8010, the Husqvarna 580BTS may not be the most powerful leaf blower on the list, but it sure is efficient.

The maximum air volume output of 908 cubic feet per minute and a maximum airspeed of 209 MPH, makes the blower easy to use for newer users. Controlling the machine doesn’t take much, and much like the previous model, the throttle is placed on the tube.

With the free left hand, you can get a better grip of the blower and make its action more precise and efficient.

Saves you fuel

Unlike most other gas-based gardening tools, the Husqvarna 580BTS doesn’t burn through its fuel tank in the blink of an eye. It’s one of the more efficient leaf blowers on my list today and comes designed with what Husqvarna likes to call an X-Torq engine.

This latest in the company’s trademarked technology allows the machine to significantly reduce its fuel consumption – by almost 20%.

However, fuel consumption is not the only thing that the technology minimizes; it keeps harmful emissions at an all-time low as well, making the 580BTS a very eco-friendly choice.

Speed Settings

This blower comes with convenient variable speed settings as well, which allows you to customize its effectiveness to meet any job at hand.

Not only will you be able to do the job accurately, you’ll even save up on the fuel by minimizing consumption. For harder jobs just dial up the speed, which makes the task much easier.

Low Noise emission

Most gas-powered leaf blowers are known to produce a lot of noise when in use.

The Husqvarna 580BTS is fortunately on the lower side of the decibel scale and has a rating of 112 dB, which is quite low compared to the amount of power it’s able to generate. However, you should still wear some form of ear protection while using it.

What could have been better?

Though an incredible leaf blower for the price, what really got me down about the blower is that for a backpack model, the 580BTS is incredibly heavy.

At 25.8 pounds, moving around with it too much is going to be a problem for a lot of users. However, the backpack straps evenly distributes the unit weight on the shoulders to minimize the stress caused.

Pros

• One of the most powerful backpack leaf blower models on the market.
• Customizable speed options to fit the requirements of the job at hand.
• Low noise emission compared to other blowers of its class.

Cons

• Quite heavy to constantly move around with.

Check price on Amazon

3. Husqvarna 967144301 360BT Backpack Blower

The Husqvarna 360BT is a perfect fit for those homeowners who have a smaller yard that doesn’t see much pine needles. It’s small, compact, easy to use, and I highly recommend it for newer users who are still quite new to using leaf blowers and yard care in general.

Why go for this leaf blower?

Perfectly caters to smaller yards

With an air volume output of 631 cubic feet per minute and an airspeed of 232 MPH, the Husqvarna 360BT is designed to be quite reliable in catering to the needs of smaller yards.

If you have just a few pine trees and don’t want to invest in a more powerful machine, then this leaf blower will be the perfect pick.

The lower power helps newer users get into yard care, as it makes the blower much easier to control. The weight is on the lower side as well, and the backpack feature evenly distributes the weight to make the device quite portable.

Low Noise Emission

Much like the previous Husqvarna model on the list, the 360BT creates much less noise than most gas-powered models on the market.

The 360BT, too, comes with what Husqvarna likes to call, an X-Torque engine. This new and improved technology helps to reduce fuel consumption of the device by almost 20% and allows you to save up on a lot of the fuel costs.

But apart from minimizing the fuel intake, it reduces harmful exhaust emissions by 60% as well.

However, reduced fuel consumption and emission don’t necessarily mean that the manufacturer compromised on the power of the blower in any way. Even with low emissions, the machine produces a high level of torque over a significantly wider rpm range.

Better Fuel capacity

With a capacity of 74.4 fl.oz of fuel, the overall tank volume of the Husqvarna 360BT is a bit above average. This helps the blower last for an extended period of time (when coupled with fuel efficiency and consumption), and you will not have to frequently stop for refills.

What could have been better?

The Husqvarna 360BT is perfect for smaller yards, but when it comes to the bigger, mid-sized ones, it often fails to deliver.

So, I would really like it if the blower came with a bit more power to at least allow users to tidy up mid-sized yards.

Pros

• One of the best leaf blower models for newer users and small yards.
• Lightweight for its size
• Great fuel efficiency and fuel capacity that will help you save on operation costs.

Cons

• Not powerful enough to clean mid to large-sized yards.

Check price on Amazon

4. Makita EB7650WH 75.6 cc MM4 4-Stroke Engine Hip Throttle Backpack Blower

The Makita EB7650WH is another amazing backpack leaf blower for small to mid-sized yards that comes with a variety of easy to use features. The power is reliable as well, and for a 4-stroke engine, it’s designed to go head to head with the most capable of 2-stroke leaf blowers.

Why go for this leaf blower?

Easier to handle

When it comes to the type of leaf blower I want to get for my yard, I generally prefer going for those models which come with a hip-mounted throttle and not a nozzle mounted one.

Sure, throttles present on the nozzle will allow your left hand to be free to grip the blower for better handling. But a hip mount, on the other hand, equally distributes the weight and balance of the unit to make it even easier for users to control the airflow.

The hip mounting feature of the Makita EB7650WH applies much less stress on the right hand, and you will be able to use the machine for an extended period of time.

Easier Fuel Use

The engine of the Makita EB7650WH boasts a displacement of 75.6cc and comes with a 4-stroke engine. Now the advantages of the 4-stroke engine over the 2-stroke one lie in the type of fuel used.

In the 2-stroke model, the fuel that you need must be a specific mixture of gas and oil for the machine to run. But, that’s not the case with the 4 stroke one, so users are not as inconvenienced.

Efficient MM4 Engine Technology

4 stroke engines are not considered to be as powerful as the 2-stroke ones when it comes to the field of leaf blowers.

But Makita changes that perception by providing their EB7650WH with an engine with what they like to call the MM4 Technology. This 4-cycle engine is now capable of generating air volumes and torque, which can rival the output of the best 2-stroke engines.

This engine makes the blower quite user-friendly, as well. It keeps the model light and has lower noise and vibration levels that makes it the perfect pick for domestic and amateur users.

Moreover, when compared to the standard 2-stroke leaf blowers, this MM4 tech model is capable of producing an output that is 20 to 30 percent more efficient.

The gas consumption is also at an all-time low, and the engine boasts a faster and easier startup with lower maintenance and servicing requirements. Harmful emissions are 90% lower compared to an equivalent 2-stroke engine, and you can use this blower as much as you want without damaging your lungs in the process.

What could have been better?

The biggest downside of the EB7650WH is the price that it comes at. With all the features it boasts, it’s really not all that surprising why it’s so expensive. And, it’s this very cost that keeps most average customers away from the blower. I would really like it if Makita made it more financially accessible for regular users.

Pros

• MM4 technology engine is capable of competing with the power 2-stroke engines.
• The hip mount is easier to handle and control.
• Low emissions and higher fuel efficiency than 2-stroke engines.

Cons

• The price is rather high and not affordable for many.

Check price on Amazon

5. ECHO PB-2520 25.4cc Handheld Leaf Blower

The ECHO PB-2520 is going to be the final leaf blower model on my list today. It’s the only handheld blower I will be reviewing today, and the reason that I have saved it a spot on the list is that, even though it lacks power compared to the rest, it’s incredibly reliable.

Why go for this leaf blower?

Higher Mobility

Don’t you just love it when you’re able to carry your tool all over the yard?

The handheld design of the ECHO PB-2520 was made with mobility in mind. For smaller yards with pine sheddings and needles in the difficult to reach parts, this blower is the perfect pick.

The portability coupled with the easy to use features will allow you to tidy up your garden in every single part, even the corners, which any other leaf blower would not be able to reach.

Coming at a weight of just 8.8 pounds, this blower will hardly put much stress on your arms, helping you to work for extended hours.

Power and reliability

With a 170 MPH airspeed and an air volume of 453 cubic feet per meter, the ECHO PB-2520 may not be able to compete with the rest of the blowers on the list, but for a handheld model, it’s very powerful.

The nozzle can be easily controlled due to the reduced power, and you will be able to access the hard to reach parts of your garden. It clears sticky pine needles rather well, and you will not have to strain yourself or work for extended periods to get the job done.

Convenient Speed Settings

This product is all about giving more control to the user and make the pine needle removal process as effortless as possible.

And this is precisely why the blower comes with a convenient variable speed setting, to help the user adjust the airflow of the machine to meet the requirements of the yard. If you want to gently remove pine leaves without affecting the surrounding foliage, then just turn down the flow.

On the other hand, if you have to remove a lot of pine needles from the garden faster, you can always increase the power as you see fit.

Lower Noise Emission

The noise output of the ECHO PB-2520 when in use is just 70 dB, which is much lower than what the other blowers on the list produce. The vibrations are at an all-time low too.

What could have been better?

The overall power of the ECHO PB-2520 is what disappoints me the most about the leaf blower. The airflow and speed output is quite low when compared to the backpack models, and it can only cater to the needs of smaller yards.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable design allows for higher maneuverability.
• Will allow you to access the hard to reach parts of the yard easily.
• Variable speed settings offer more control to the user.

Cons

• Not powerful enough to cater to the needs of larger yards.

Check price on Amazon

A Buyer’s Guide: Picking the Right Leaf Blower for Pine Needles

With so many amazing leaf blower models out in the market today, it can indeed be difficult to pick the one that can fit your needs the best.

So, before you go ahead and invest in the one that catches your fancy, there are a few things that I believe that you should look out for.

The Price tag

It honestly goes without saying how crucial price is when it comes to purchasing any gardening tool. For both domestic and professional leaf blower users, it’s important to go for a model that is budget-friendly and easy on the pockets.

Many a time I have opted for models which blew a hole through my savings, just because it was offering features which nothing else did. But those were features that I rarely ever used, and it felt like a waste in the long run.

So, it’s better to look out for models that are not overpriced and boast excessive features that you do not need.

The leaf blower you invest in should not only be economical but offer excellent performance and output force for the money that you pay for it. It should be able to get the job done without any operational hassles.

Easier Maintenance

If you ask professional lawn care experts what is one of the most important features to look for in a blower, then the answer you will often get is ‘low maintenance’.

Leaf blowers are not only useful during spring, but you can blow away leaves with them as well as thin layers of snow. So, if the machine is easy to maintain, you will be able to use it throughout the year without having to pay extra to have it repaired and cleaned by a technician.

Blowers that are easy to maintain are also easy to store, and you can put it away in the shed or garage when not in use.

Better Design

By design I mean to ask ‘how ergonomic is the blower,’ or ‘how easy is it to use?’.

Now, for beginner leaf blower users, I would recommend that you go for a model that is easy to control and has a power output that is manageable. This is what makes the design of the model so very important to me, as you will not be able to use a blower to its optimal potential if you’re not able to control it from the get-go.

Final Thoughts

With so many amazing leaf blower models out there today, I know how difficult it can be to find the one that can fit your needs the best.

But I hope my guide and reviews today were able to help you with your decision.

Till next time!

In fact, most homeowners would rather use them for light-duty tasks, such as cleaning the driveway or sidewalks. Using a rake or broom would require more time and effort, so understandably, people are looking into buying leaf blowers to perform these chores.

But it doesn’t make sense to spend too much on an expensive model – after all, you don’t need the most powerful leaf blower for small-scale work. That’s why it is wise to look for budget-friendly options that can get your job done without burning a hole in your wallet.

By saying all this, I’m not suggesting that you should compromise on quality. It is a delicate balance to maintain, really! And it can be challenging to find the most affordable yet high-quality leaf blowers available on the market.

I believe it all boils down to buying a product that provides the maximum value for its price range.

What Type of Leaf Blower Do You Need?

It does not take rocket science to know that only handheld leaf blowers are truly budget-friendly. If you look at any backpack model from a reputable brand, it will have a price tag of around 500 dollars or more. And top-notch wheeled or walk-behind models tend to cost over 1,000 dollars.

Handheld leaf blowers can be of three types, based on their power source – electric (corded), battery, and gas-powered. I want to explain the pros and cons of each of these types to help you understand which one is the best for your needs – but if you are familiar with them, feel free to skip this section and jump right top my top 7 list!

A corded handheld unit is your ideal option when you have a tiny lawn, and you don’t need a lot of maneuverability. These models come with cords that limit how far they can go.

A battery-powered handheld unit is your best bet if you don’t need a lot of blowing force and you won’t be using it for too long. These models usually run for half an hour or so when they are fully charged. Unlike regular electric units, there is no cord to restrict your movement.

A gas-powered handheld blower is perfect for those of you who need more blowing force. These models are the heaviest, noisiest, and most powerful of the three. Therefore, using one of these for a tiny lawn would be overkill.

Now that you understand the difference between these types, let’s get to the list of what I think are the top 7 options out there.

The Top 7 Leaf Blowers on a Budget

There are many affordable leaf blowers out there, but it’s hard to find one that is also of high quality and/or has a lot of extra features. Because of that, I managed to shorten my list to just seven products.

Without further ado, let’s get started:

1. Black+Decker BV6600 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower

The numero uno spot on this list goes to one of the most renowned brands in the business – Black+Decker. The BV6600 is perhaps the most versatile and powerful handheld model out there. If you decide on buying it, you get a top-notch tool that works as a blower, vacuum, and mulcher.

Why buy this product?

When it comes to handheld electric blowers, it does not get much better than the BV6600 from Black+Decker. And my primary reason for saying that is the sheer value for money that it provides. You won’t find many products in its price range that come with vacuum and mulcher modes.

When I’m doing my yard work, I have to deal with some stray leaves all over the lawn. I prefer to simply blow them to the sides.

That’s where the variable speed settings come into the picture. If you want to blow near a flowerbed, you can switch to a blowing speed of 140 mph. And if you are dealing with stubborn, matted leaves, you can take it up a notch and blow at 250 mph.

The BV6600 is perfect for vacuuming small piles and mulching them. Now, I know you may be thinking that it would be a hassle to switch between the blower and vacuum functions. But it is as easy as it can get. You only need a few seconds and zero tools to change it from blower to vacuum and vice versa.

I especially liked the BV6600 because of its lightweight design and low noise output. That’s why it has bagged the first spot on my list today. And did I mention that there is a built-in cord retainer that ensures uninterrupted use?

This blower is easily my favorite out of the 7.

What could’ve been better?

After doing some reading in online forums, it seems to me that the leaf bag isn’t all that high quality.

But given the affordable price of cloth bags, you could easily purchase a more robust one to replace the one that comes with it, if needed. So, this is certainly not a deal-breaker!

Pros

• A reduction ratio of 16:1
• Up to 250 mph of blowing speed
• Variable speed selections
• Tranquil operation
• Quick switch between blower and vacuum

Cons

• The EZ-Empty leaf bags don’t seem to last all that long

Check price on Amazon

2. Toro 51621 UltraPlus 3-in-1 Leaf Blower

Toro is among the handful of brands that are known to offer only the best outdoor power equipment. And their 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Blower lives up to that reputation! This 3-in-1 tool can function as a blower, vacuum, and mulcher.

Why buy this product?

Having used Toro snow blowers in the past, I was not worried about quality when I looked at the 51621 UltraPlus.

The assembly is effortless and straightforward – it practically puts itself together! And it looks great too, thanks to its trendy red and black finish.

I am a big fan of the multiple tubes included with this model. Apart from the main tube, you also get a power insert for moving leaves into piles and a concentrator for moving leaves out of tight corners and cracks. And on top of that, it has an oscillating nozzle that automatically sweeps air back and forth for a wider blowing path.

The variable speed knob on this machine ensures that you have total control over the speed of airflow, both inward and outward. And the metal impeller, coupled with the Shredz-All Shred ring, ensures that you get a fine mulch.

What could’ve been better?

The only factor based on which I ranked Toro’s 51621 lower than Black+Decker’s BV6600 is ease of use. Switching from the blower to the mulcher is slightly awkward and inconvenient. And the hook to wrap the cord doesn’t work correctly as the wire tends to slip out.

It weighs nine pounds and is a tad bit large for my liking. Because of these small flaws, the 51621 from Toro missed out on being my top recommendation.

Pros

• Delivers a blowing force of 350 CFM and a suction force of 410 CFM
• Variable speed control in both blower and vacuum modes
• Comes with an oscillating nozzle kit
• Metal impeller reduces 97% of leaves and debris to less than 0.5 inch
• Includes a power insert and concentrator

Cons

• A tad bit heavy, can be cumbersome to use for some

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3. KIMO 20V Cordless 2-in-1 Leaf Blower

After two electric models, it is time to introduce you to one of the best battery-powered handheld leaf blower out there. KIMO’s Cordless model works both as a blower and a vacuum.

Why buy this product?

I was looking for a compact, lightweight leaf blower to remove stray leaves and small debris from my driveway, patio, and front porch. And the 6001-2.0 cordless model from KIMO perfectly fits the bill! I wouldn’t use it for extensive leaf blowing in large yards, and nor should you.

It weighs only two pounds and has a very compact design. But don’t let its size fool you. It packs adequate power to tackle small-to-medium scale leaf blowing projects. The all-copper motor delivers an impressive speed of 13,000 rotations per minute, giving it enough power to blow leaves and other small debris.

When you deal with leaves stuck in tight corners and cracks, you can switch to the vacuum mode and suck them in. All you need to do is switch the blow tube to the air inlet and attach a disposable bag in its place to the air outlet. And voila! You get a leaf vacuum.

Now, I know that the most significant concern you could have is battery life. But that’s where KIMO’s 6001 stands out from its competition. It is equipped with a powerful 2.0 AH, 20 Volt Lithium battery, which easily clicks into place.

This battery is guaranteed to last for 1,000 charge cycles. And it takes around one hour to charge fully. Moreover, it also has a power indicator light.

What could’ve been better?

As good as this leaf blower from KIMO is, it is not perfect. While it does an excellent job at blowing leaves away, its vacuum function is not as powerful. Don’t get me wrong – I am not saying that it’s worthless. But it cannot handle large debris or wet leaves very well.

Pros

• 20 AH Battery guarantees 1,000 charge cycles
• Comes with a fast charger and instruction manual
• All-copper motor provides 13,000 RPM of power
• Includes a power indicator
• Effortless switching from blower to vacuum and vice versa

Cons

• Vacuum function is not strong enough

Check price on Amazon

4. Hitachi RB24EAP Gas-Powered Leaf Blower

The top three of my list were taken by products that could also function as a vacuum or mulcher. And now, it is time to look at the most powerful handheld leaf blower you will find on this list. The RB24EAP from Hitachi is the only gas-powered product I have included, and you will soon see why!

Why buy this product?

If you are looking for the a powerful handheld model, look no further. Hitachi packed an impressive 23.9 cc commercial-grade, two-stroke engine in the RB24EAP blower. You get a whopping 441 CFM of blowing force with it, which is one of the best in its class. Moreover, the engine features PureFire low emission technology.

When I had to get rid of wet or matted leaves, I used the tapered nozzle to get an air velocity of 170 MPH. You can use it without the tapered nozzle if you want a wider flow of air instead of concentrated airflow in one spot.

It weighs only 8.6 pounds, which is well-balanced to ensure optimal comfort even when you use it for an extended period. And the large, two-finger throttle lever adds to its convenience quotient. I also liked the fact that it comes with a fuel tank that can hold up to 17.6 fl. oz.

Furthermore, its quality is validated by the impressive warranty Hitachi offers. If you use it for commercial purposes, you get a 2-year warranty. If you use it for rental purposes, you get a 1-year warranty. Or if you are a consumer like me, you get a 7-year warranty.

What could’ve been better?

Like any gas-powered leaf blower, the RB24EAP from Hitachi is loud. You definitely shouldn’t use it without ear protection. Also, because of its lightweight design, I could feel the torque of the engine in my wrist at times. But these flaws are not significant enough to outweigh the many praiseworthy aspects of this product.

Pros

• Equipped with a 23.9 cc commercial-grade engine
• Blowing force of 441 CFM at a speed of 170 MPH
• PureFire 2-stroke engine reduces fumes
• CARB Tier III compliant
• Backed by an impressive warranty

Cons

• A tad bit loud

Check price on Amazon

5. Black+Decker LSW221 Cordless Leaf Blower

I started my list of recommendations with the BV6600 from Black+Decker. And it is time to review another exceptional product from this reputed brand. The LSW221 is one of the best battery-powered handheld leaf blowers you will find out there. And it offers good value as well.

Why buy this product?

If you are looking for a small product to clear leaves and other small debris from hard surfaces like your driveway, deck, or sidewalks the LSW221 from Black+Decker is your best bet!

This cordless model is powered by a 20V MAX 1.5Ah Lithium-Ion battery, which gives it a blowing speed of 130 MPH. I could use it for 20 minutes before the battery ran out and needed to be charged.

Black+Decker advertises the LSW221 as a sweeper instead of a blower. And that’s because it is not powerful enough to tackle extensive lawn maintenance work.

I must mention two of the highlights of this leaf blower. First, it weighs only 3.7 pounds. So you don’t need to worry about feeling fatigued after using it. And second, it is as quiet as it can be.

Unlike the majority of products out there, this blower from Black+Decker has a blow tube that is slightly angled up at the end. This ensures that you don’t have to lean down awkwardly to get the leaves and debris to blow up over the curb.

What could’ve been better?

Although it is uncommon for a battery-powered leaf blower to run for more than half an hour on a single full charge, I was a bit disappointed that the LSW221 runs only for 15 to 20 minutes at best.

Pros

• Blows air at a speed of 130 MPH
• Powered by a 20V MAX 1.5Ah Lithium-Ion battery
• Ergonomically designed blow tube
• Weighs only 3.7 pounds

Cons

• Short run time of the battery

Check price on Amazon

6. WORX WG520 Electric Leaf Blower

The penultimate recommendation I have for you is from the reputed brand of WORX. The WG520 is the only electric leaf blower on this list that comes close to its gas-powered peers in terms of its blowing force.

Why buy this product?

After seeing the reviews online, I was convinced that I’m seeing a high-quality product. And after using it, I know precisely why it is so popular among users.

First of all, I was impressed by the lightweight design of this model. It weighs a little more than six pounds, and I did not feel fatigued after using it with one hand for over half an hour. And it also features a variable speed control function that allows you to adjust the airflow according to your surroundings.

But what sets it apart from its competition is its Turbine 600 Jet Engine technology. You get a blowing force of 600 CFM at a speed of 110 MPH, which is on par with gas-powered models.

I also liked the thoughtful inclusion of a built-in dust blower for increased visibility. And the power cord retainer ensures hassle-free operation. If you encounter a tough task, the hyper-stream air nozzle of the WG520 is capable enough to tackle it with ease.

Overall, it is one of the most powerful and easy-to-use electric handheld models I have ever used. And it comes with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.

What could’ve been better?

The only gripe I have with the WG520 is that its blow tube has a wide nozzle. I could not pinpoint the airflow into tight corners and cracks because of a more spread-out air dispersion. But that is not necessarily a deal-breaker, of course!

Pros

• Equipped with the Turbine 600 Jet Engine Technology
• Provides a blowing force of 600 CFM at a speed of 110 MPH
• Backed by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
• Weighs only 6.4 pounds
• Includes a variable speed control feature

Cons

• Wide nozzle makes it challenging to remove leaves from tight corners and cracks

Check price on Amazon

7. Toro 51585 Power Sweep Electric Leaf Blower

It is time for the final recommendation, and it is another top-notch leaf blower from Toro.

Why buy this product?

After using it extensively for over a week, I appreciated how light this product is. It weighs only 4.6 pounds, and I could use it even on the days when I was a bit tired and lazy. But don’t let its lightweight built fool you. It is capable of generating a powerful blowing force of 155 CFM at a speed of 160 MPH.

To put things into perspective, that is powerful enough to clear leaves and small debris from your deck, driveway, sidewalk, and maybe even a small lawn. But you can’t expect it to tackle large-scale leaf removal tasks.

Moreover, you get a 2-speed air control function to reduce the speed to 130 MPH when you are blowing around flower beds and delicate shrubs. I also liked the thoughtful placement of the control switch on the handle.

What could’ve been better?

There are only a couple of downsides I noticed while using it. The air control switch is flimsy and very sensitive. More often than not, I accidentally switched the speed from low to high.

Apart from that, the hook for the cord is not designed optimally because the wire tends to slip out and unplug sometimes.

The 51585 Power Sweep leaf blower from Toro provides excellent value for money. And in my opinion, these flaws are not significant enough to trade it for another, higher-priced option.

Pros

• Equipped with a powerful 7 Amps motor
• Blowing force of 155 CFM at a speed of 160 MPH
• 2-speed air control function
• Backed by a 2-year warranty
• One of the most affordable options on the market
• Weighs only 4.6 pounds

Cons

• Air control switch is delicate and sensitive
• Cord hook is not designed optimally

Check price on Amazon

Buyers’ Guide

Knowing the seven best leaf blowers on a budget is only half the battle won! You still need to choose one of my seven recommendations – or maybe some other model – it’s your decision after all.

But don’t worry; I have put together this short guide to help you make an informed decision.

Here are the factors you need to consider when choosing the ideal product for your needs.

Price Versus Value

When you have a strict budget constraint to adhere to, you are left with limited options. And more often than not, you are faced with the dilemma of giving up on some features or expanding your budget. That’s why you need to focus on the price relative to value.

Additional Features

Even if you are not willing to spend a lot, you can get a leaf blower with some additional features.

Does the blower in question fulfill all of your needs? Do the extra features add convenience, or are they just adding extra cost for something you won’t ever use?

This about this before making your decision.

Ergonomic Design & Durability

One of the ways for companies to cut down on their production costs is to use inferior quality of materials or less than optimal designs. Make sure that the leaf blower you are considering buying does not have these issues. Pay attention to the reviews and do adequate research before buying one.

Summing It Up

And with that, I we have arrived to the end of this comprehensive guide. Finding quality products on a tight budget is never easy. But I am hoping that I have been able to answer most, if not all, of your questions about budget leaf blowers.

Let me know if I missed anything…

Till next time!

Leaves have an interesting tendency to overtake any yard.

One of the best ways to deal with this issue is by using a leaf blower. But how do you choose one?

There are so many different models, brands, and types of leaf blowers, and everyone is marketed as being better than the competition. This is a conundrum, isn’t it?

The mere thought of it makes me feel tired. And I am sure the same thing happens to other people too.

If you are like me, this is the article for you.

I have compiled this list of the best leaf blower brands. That way, you know what you will get.

But before we begin, I have to say that the list below is entirely subjective – it’s entirely possible that other people would have compiled the list in a different order, and there is nothing wrong with that. It only reflects how I feel about their overall popularity and product quality.

1. Stihl

Stihl has a long history dating back to 1926 when Andreas Stihl invented the first electric chainsaw.

The company was founded in Germany. Fast forward a couple of years, and what you will find is that today Stihl has expanded dramatically. Now the company owns manufacturing plants in the United States, Brazil, and China.

Stihl has earned the reputation of a manufacturer of high-quality and reliable professional equipment.

It is one of the leading manufacturers of chainsaws. (I am sure you have heard of the Stihl Timbersports series.)

However, they also produce a wide variety of different power-equipment, including leaf blowers.

Their aim as a company is to create high-quality, top of the line equipment that exceeds expectations.

They have a few different lines of leaf blowers.

Cordless Leaf Blowers

One of the most popular electric leaf blowers by Stihl is the BGA 56.

It is a leaf blower that is best suited for the occasional walkway or sidewalk cleanups. An electric leaf blower is a go-to option as it does the job quick and easy.

The BGA 56 is built in the USA and combines some of the best features you can expect from an electric leaf blower. It is exceptionally lightweight (7.3 lbs), even with the battery installed.

The great thing about this blower is that it is also relatively quiet (63 dB(A)), which means happy neighbors and, well, happy ears.

It is extremely powerful, with an average airspeed reaching up to 100 MPH and delivering air volume of about 353 CFM at the nozzle.

The overall run time can vary, but for a cordless leaf blower, it will not leave you asking for more. Depending on the battery, you can expect between 9 to 30 minutes of run time.

And if that is not enough, the battery-powered leaf blowers are easy to keep clean, as there will not be any fuel or oil spills.

Corded Leaf Blowers

Stihl offers a few corded models. The best one in my opinion is the BGE 71.

Corded leaf blowers, produce no harmful emissions and fumes and are ideal for clearing the ground around or near your house.

The BGE 71 is also super quiet (between 58 to 64 dB(A)), so if noise is of concern to you, this model may be the right choice for you.

There is a two-speed switch that you can use depending on the task at hand.

The air volume at the nozzle is between 232 to 285 CFM, and the airspeed on average is between 105 up to 130 MPH.

Due to the fact it doesn’t need a battery, this leaf blower is even more lightweight, weighing at about 6.8 lbs.

The only downside? Well, it is corded – so you will need an extension cord.

Shredder Vacs

Stihl offers two shredder vacs. These models are 2-in-1. You can use them as a standard leaf blower or convert them into a powerful shredder.

One of the top-rated models is the SH 86 C-E.

One of the best features that make it an excellent choice is the anti-vibration handle. This is a gas-powered leaf blower, so any feature that reduces the vibrations is an essential factor that can easily be overlooked sometimes.

It is powerful enough to provide easy vacuuming or blowing. The engine is easy to start and runs smoothly.

Professional Leaf Blowers

Stihl has a wide variety of professional leaf blowers. If you are looking to get something that can deliver exceptional power and the utmost durability, especially if you are a landscaping professional, this is the product line you need to check.

There are two main types of professional leaf blowers that Stihl offers (1) handheld and (2) backpack leaf blowers.

The BG 86 is one of their best professional handheld leaf blowers, which can be used to clean any yard. It provides powerful airflow that will help you clean your yard in less time than you may have ever expected.

One of the best backpack leaf blowers by Stihl is the BR 600. It offers exceptional power, durability, and comfort. It is lightweight and easy to use.

Leaf Blower Accessories

Another thing that makes Stihl one of the best leaf blower brands is the fact that they also offer some accessories that you can get for your leaf blower.

Some of the things they offer are chest straps, hip belts; a vacuum kit if you want to turn your leaf blower into a vacuum; and a gutter kit; no longer will you need to climb any ladders to clean the gutters.

2. Husqvarna

Husqvarna is a power-tools and equipment manufacturer that has a long history. This may very well be one of the oldest companies in that niche because it was founded back in the distant 1689.

In the beginning, they were a very different type of manufacturer; they were making muskets. But times have changed, and with that Husqvarna changed too.

Gradually they moved on to producing motorcycles, engines, and lawn care tools and equipment. Today they are one of the biggest brands in the world.

If there is a lawn care tool that you need, the chances are Husqvarna has it. And so is the case with leaf blowers.

Homeowner Leaf Blowers

The homeowner product line is aimed at people who want to clean their yards and sidewalks. These blowers are best for occasional use. They usually combine a powerful engine for a steady airflow in an overall very lightweight package.

The most popular model in that category is the Husqvarna 150BT. This is a backpack leaf blower. It is a little on the heavy side weighing about 22.5 lbs. Nevertheless, it delivers outstanding power and airspeed (up to 251 MPH).

It comes with an X-Torq engine, which is consuming up to 20% less fuel and produces up to 60% less harmful exhaust fumes.

Battery-Powered Leaf Blowers

Husqvarna also produces a few battery-powered leaf blowers. These are great for small cleaning jobs around the yard.

The Husqvarna 320iB is one of the most popular cordless models. It is designed to be as comfortable as possible. It is very lightweight (weighing a mere 5.29 lbs), and it is suitable for left-handed and right-handed use.

Its powerful motor produces good airflow reaching speeds of up to 82.87 MPH.

Commercial Leaf Blowers

Husqvarna has a wide array of different commercial leaf blowers, too.

These are aimed toward more demanding use, longer working hours, and at the same time, they have to be able to provide exceptional power and durability.

One of the most popular models in this product line is the Husqvarna 580BTS.

It is a very powerful backpack leaf blower that delivers air speeds of a little over 200 MPH. It is packed with a 4.3 hp X-torq engine, which is more fuel-efficient and produces less harmful fumes.

3. Echo

Echo, compared to some of the other manufacturers on this list, can be considered a newcomer.

Echo was founded over 70 years ago. Back then, the company had a relatively humble beginning manufacturing manual dusters used for spreading pesticides.

But curiously enough, Echo produced the first backpack mister and blower. It was designed to be used for spreading liquid chemicals over crops.

Eventually, Echo started producing its own engines. And ever since then Echo has been expanding.

Today they manufacture different power tools and equipment like chainsaws, trimmers, brush cutters, shredders, ice augers, spreaders, tillers, and so much more, including leaf blowers too.

Hand-Held Leaf Blowers

Echo produces a variety of different portable leaf blowers.

The PB-250LN is arguably one of their most popular models in this category.

It features a powerful 25.4 cc, two-stroke engine that can deliver air speeds of up to 165 MPH and 391 CFM.

Even though it is a gas-powered leaf blower, the noise levels are surprisingly low, just about 65 dB(A).

It weighs about 9.5 lbs (without any mixed fuel) and comes with an impressive 5-year consumer warranty.

Backpack Leaf Blowers

Echo also manufactures a very powerful line of backpack blowers.

The PB-580T is one of their best models that comes with a big 58.2 cc, 2-stroke engine that can deliver exceptional results no matter what job you have for it. It delivers air speeds of up to 216 MPH and 517 CFM.

For such a powerful blower, the noise levels are very good, about 70 dB(A).

With a dry weight of about 22.7 lbs and a consumer warranty of 5 years, this one is a steal.

Professional-Grade Leaf Blowers

Echo manufactures a few different leaf-blowers, both handheld and backpack, that are aimed to deliver the utmost performance while having increased durability.

These are known as the X-Series.

Some of these blowers are designed to deliver the best comfort possible. After all, the chances are they will be used for extended periods of time and sometimes even in hot weather.

For example, the PB-770T is an X-Series backpack leaf blower, and it is a little beast. It has a 63.3 cc, two-stroke engine, and delivers airspeed of up to 234 MPHand 756 CFM.

The PB-8010T is also an X-Series backpack leaf blower. But this one is prioritizing air volume displacement instead. It is capable of reaching up to 1071 CFM and airspeed of 211 MPH.

4. Ryobi

Ryobi may be a relatively obscure company. They are definitely not as world-widely recognized as some of the other brands in this list. However, this does not mean they cannot be one of the biggest brands out there.

Ryobi is a Japanese company, and it was founded back in 1943.

Today they manufacture a wide array of different electronics, car components, printing equipment, and, last but not least, power tools, equipment, and builder’s hardware.

They have multiple manufacturing facilities spread out across the world.

Ryobi produces a variety of different types of leaf blowers.

Handheld Leaf Blowers

They produce several different handheld leaf blowers, which can be great for occasional cleaning jobs.

One of their best models is the RYOBI ONE+. This is a battery-powered model that is powerful enough to produce air speeds of up to 100 MPH and up to 280 CFM.

Some of the advantages of the RYOBI ONE+ are quick cleaning jobs, no toxic fumes, and it is lightweight enough to be operated by one hand.

Backpack Leaf Blowers

The backpack leaf blowers from Ryobi are arguably some of the best backpack leaf blowers you can get today.

Their top model is the RYOBI 2 Cycle Backpack Blower. It is a powerful beast delivering air speeds of up to 175 MPH and generating up to 760 CFM.

It comes with some neat little features and extras like the ability to switch between different speeds and cruise control.

Despite the fact that it is a backpack blower, it is easy to use, comfortable, and well balanced.

Vacuum Mulchers

Currently, Ryobi offers one vacuum mulcher. It is the RYOBI 40V VAC ATTACK Leaf Mulcher and it offers one of the best leave mulching capabilities with a mulching ratio of 16:1.

Many other comparable products will have a hard time comparing to it, especially when it is also backed by a 5 year warranty.

Wheeled Blowers

Are you in desperate need of something extremely powerful, but you don’t want to carry heavy machinery?

Well, Ryobi has a solution for you.

Currently, they are selling just one model, but it is as powerful as they get.

The Ryobi wheeled blower is designed to deal with the toughest of conditions.

The 2-CYCLE 520 CFM WHEELED BLOWER by Ryobi is extremely powerful, delivering up to 520 CFM and airspeed reaching up to 200 MPH.

With it, you do not need to carry anything by hand; think of it as a different kind of lawnmower – one that blows leaves.

Its powerful engine can deal with any yard work. And you will not have to worry about your hands fatiguing or getting numb from the vibrations.

5. Toro

Toro is another well-known manufacturer of a huge array of different power tools and equipment.

Toro was founded back in 1914, and ever since then, they have been pushing the boundaries of high-quality lawn care equipment.

They produce several different types of leaf blowers. And many of their tools are electric or battery-powered.

Corded Leaf Blowers

One of their best corded models is the Power Sweep (51585). It may look and feel small and light (it weighs a mere 4.6 lbs), but don’t let that fool you.

It packs quite a punch.

The electric motor delivers exceptional air speeds of up to 160 MPH, allowing you to do quick cleaning jobs that will take no time. The motor is controlled by a two-speed switch.

You can operate it with one hand, and you will not have to worry about your hands fatiguing

Overall a very lightweight and powerful tool that is also durable and long-lasting.

Battery-Powered Leaf Blowers

Toro has recently launched a new line of cordless leaf blowers. There are two main product lines which can be categorized as a 40V and 60V models.

Of course, you can expect higher power and air speeds from the 60V models, but the 40V ones are definitely not to be underestimated.

These are simple to use and start, they do not produce any harmful exhaust fumes, and you will not have to worry about dealing with oil and fuel.

The PowerPlex® 40V MA Brushless Blower is one of the most popular models which delivers the impressive 480 CFM and reaches air speeds of up to 150 MPH.

There are two speed choices (low and high), and best of all, the battery charger works fast; Depending on the battery, you can expect the complete recharging time to be as low as 60 minutes.

The blower is not as lightweight as some other models, but nonetheless, with the battery installed it stands at just about 8.4 lbs.

Corded Vacuum and Leaf Blowers

The majority of the multi-functional type of leaf blowers are usually gas-powered. They are often a lot noisier and produce many harmful emissions.

However, Toro is offering us a unique alternative here, a corded 3-in-1 tool that can be used as a leaf blower, leaf shredder, and a leaf vacuum.

The powerful motor produces a strong airflow and speeds up to 260 MPH and 340 CFM. At the same time, the vacuum produces an air movement of 405 CFM.

How can one feel disappointed at such impressive numbers? And if a corded leaf blower is something that you think will fit your needs, then this model from Toro is second to none.

Gas-Powered Leaf Vacuum and Blowers

Their Gas Blower Vac (51988) comes with a 2-cycle engine that outputs a lot of power. The airspeed reaches up to 150 MPH and produces about 460 CFM.

Again this is a 3-in-1 tool that can aid you in not just cleaning the leaves but also vacuuming them and even shredding them.

It is very lightweight, and it comes with an easy to start 25.4 cc engine allowing you greater freedom; no longer will you be limited by extension cords or batteries.

6. Ego

Ego is a relative newcomer, it was established in the not too distant 1993. But ever since then, they have been focusing on one thing and one thing only.

Ever since its beginning, the company has aimed to double down on manufacturing high-quality battery-powered tools and equipment

Their tools are designed to deliver the power of gas but without using any gas whatsoever. This means a cleaner environment, less toxic fumes, and less noise.

Ego produces a great variety of different cordless equipment, including leaf blowers.

Handheld Leaf Blowers

EGO produces several different types of handheld leaf blowers.

One of their most popular models is the POWER+ 530 CFM BLOWER. A very lightweight leaf blower that is packed with a powerful 2.5 Ah battery that delivers, as you might have guessed, 530 CFM and airspeed of up to 110 MPH.

There are three different speed settings you can choose from, depending on how much work needs to be done.

There are no toxic fumes, and the noise levels are as low as they get (less than 65 dB(A)).

Backpack Leaf Blowers

Currently, EGO sells just one backpack leaf blower – the POWER+ 600 CFM BACKPACK BLOWER.

This is a solid piece of machinery that has a variable speed switch and can deliver anywhere between 320 up to 600 CFM and up to 145 MPH.

Overall, it’s a very powerful backpack blower that will not have you worry about premixed fuel, maintenance, and complicated cleanups.

EGO Power+ System

Ego has something going on about it that deserves to be mentioned.

Since all their product lines are cordless, this allows for some smart design choices to be made.

EGO designs its products in a way that allows you to use the same battery across all the EGO Power+ tools. This means that you can have multiple different tools like a lawnmower, a leaf blower, and a chainsaw and power them with just one battery.

This creates unparalleled versatility.

When buying the EGO products, you can choose from batteries with different amperage (4.0, 5.0, and 7.5 amps).

7. Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s story began in 1924 when it was established.

For year on end, Milwaukee has been focusing its energy on manufacturing and delivering tools and power equipment for different professionals.

Their products are mainly electric or battery powered.

Milwaukee has a mind-numbing variety of different tools (including leaf blowers).

This is why today, Milwaukee is a brand name worth knowing regardless of what is your professional trade.

Handheld Leaf Blowers

Milwaukee sells a few different handheld models.

The M18 FUEL Blower can be considered one of their best leaf blowers.

Even though it is a very lightweight leaf blower that weighs at just 4.9 lbs, it can deliver outstanding results. The blower can produce 450 CFM and reach up to 120 MPH.

This is a tool with plenty of power that is comfortable to carry and easy to operate. It does not produce any harmful fumes and it requires little to no maintenance and cleaning; one cannot ask for more than that.

Cordless Systems

EGO is not the only manufacturer that had this idea in mind.

In 2010 Milwaukee launched its hand tools product line, which is designed in such a way as to give you the best versatility and ease of use.

What you will find out is that you can use one interchangeable battery across all 200+ tools they have.

8. Black+Decker

Black and Decker’s story dates back to 1910 when two young guys decided to open a small machine shop. Years later, this humble venture has turned into one of the biggest brands in the world of power tool equipment.

Some of their tools have been used even in space. Black and Decker manufactured the drill that was used in Apollo 15. I am sure these guys would never have expected something like that.

They sell a few different types of leaf blowers.

Corded Leaf Blowers

Black and Decker manufactures a few different types of corded leaf blowers. They have standard corded leaf blowers and corded 3-in-1 Blowers.

One of their best products is the 3-in-1 VACPACK Leaf Blower, Vacuum, and Mulcher. It is a 12 amp blower that can produce airspeeds of up to 250 MPH and 400 CFM. The mulching ratio has a fantastic ratio of 16:1.

It is very lightweight (about 11.1 lbs) and gets the job done in no time.

Cordless Leaf Blowers

There are a few battery-powered options too.

The 40V MAX* Lithium Sweeper/Vacuum is a good example in this category.

It is a very quiet leaf blower (under 65 dB(A)) that is also very lightweight 5.4 lbs (when the bag is attached, it goes up to 6.9 lbs) and let’s not forget, it is very powerful delivering up to 120 MPH.

The Battery System

Just like how Milwaukee and EGO have their interchangeable battery systems, so does Black and Decker.

This is known as the MAX System, and it can be used with either 20V or 40V batteries.

This is going to be very useful to people that already have or are planning to have other Black and Decker tools.

9. DEWALT

It all started back in 1922 when Raymond Dewalt improved the production rates of the first woodworking machine.

Two years later, the DEWALT Products Company is established in Pennsylvania.

Ever since its beginning, the company has never stopped to push the limits by developing newer and more efficient tools and equipment.

Handheld Leaf Blowers

DEWALT focuses on manufacturing battery-powered handheld blowers.

One of their best models is the DEWALT DCBL720P1 20V. It delivers the outstanding 400 CFM at somewhat humble 90 MPH.

The blower is very quiet (about 61 dB(A)), and it is easy to handle and operate.

20V MAX System

At this point, I am sure you are not surprised to find out that DEWALT also offers a battery system. This has become an industry standard.

The interchangeable battery system can be used across more than 200 DEWALT products giving you one of the best versatility levels possible.

I have recently written an article about the various methods for cleaning gutters from the ground (you can check it out here), and briefly mentioned leaf blowers in it.

During my research I found many unanswered questions on the internet revolving around this topic, so I figured it would be a good idea to write a more in-depth post about it.

So in this article, I will talk about the various ways of cleaning your gutters with a leaf blower, as well as their pros and cons. Also, I will tell you which leaf blowers are the best fit for this kind of job, and why.

Let’s get right into it!

How to clean gutters with a leaf blower

Generally speaking, there are two ways to do it. You can either use a ladder and maybe climb onto your roof and use your leaf blower from there, or you can use a gutter cleaning attachment and do it from the ground.

Before you start, please keep in mind that these methods work best on dry leaves. If you try to do it right after some heavy rain the leaves in your gutter are going to be wet, and very hard to blow out.

Also, if the gutters have been neglected for a very long time it’s possible that the wind carried so much soil into it that you have actual plants growing in there. If this is the case, a mere leaf blower won’t be enough, you’ll have to climb up there and remove the dirt manually.

Using a ladder

This may look simple at first, but you can easily get injured if you aren’t careful. Check out this video below if you aren’t sure how to make it to the roof safely:

Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily have to climb onto your roof to do it, you can stay on the ladder if the roof structure isn’t strong enough to support you. But in that case the whole process will take a lot longer because you will have to move the ladder a bunch of times before you can cover the entire gutter area.

Once you are up there, you can start using your leaf blower much like you would when you are cleaning up leaves and other debris from your yard. Carefully walk around your roof, and make sure to blow every piece of leaf out of the gutter and off the roof.

If you have a lot of leaves built up, you can try using the end of your blower to scoop them out.

The advantage of this method is that you can actually see what’s in the gutter, so you can be sure you have removed everything. Also, you don’t need any attachments to do it, any leaf blower will do.

The downside is just how dangerous it is. One wrong step and you can fall from the roof, causing serious injury or worse. Therefore, I wouldn’t suggest doing this unless you are confident in your climbing skills.

Using a gutter cleaning attachment

This method is far safer, because you stay on the ground through the whole process.

It involves adding some kind of attachment to your leaf blower, that is specifically designed for cleaning gutters. You don’t have to think of anything overly complicated, it’s usually a tube with an angled top nozzle, allowing you to reach the inside of the gutter from the ground level.

Attach the extension to your leaf blower, and walk around the building while holding the tube high enough so that it can reach into the gutter. Since you can’t actually see what’s in there, I’d suggest going over the same area at least two times just to make sure everything has been removed.

If you find it hard to imagine how this works, check out the video below, it covers it pretty well.

While falling from the roof is out of the question, this method can still be dangerous because the debris you remove from the gutter will fall onto the ground where you are standing. So at a minimum, wear some form of eye protection while doing this.

What type of leaf blower is best for gutter cleaning?

To be honest, the type of leaf blower isn’t that important in this case. Since the area you’ll be cleaning is relatively small, even one of the medium-sized handheld blowers should be sufficient in most cases.

So if you own a leaf blower already, chances are you can use that. If you don’t, then keep reading because later I’ll show you the blowers that I recommend for this job.

But before I get into that, there are a few things I’d like to mention.

First off, I personally feel like handheld blowers are better for working from the ground, because backpack leaf blowers often have a longer tube, making it hard for you to properly hold onto the extension. That’s not to say you can’t use them, but it may end up being more complicated than it needs to be.

Second, I’d avoid using corded leaf blowers if you want to climb onto your roof. It can be done, but the extension cord is just one more thing you can trip over, and you don’t want that.

Other than that, as long as your leaf blower is functional you are good to go. There are brands that have their own gutter cleaning kit, but if yours doesn’t then don’t worry because there are some “universal fit” attachments out there. I’ll show you all of these later.

Recommended leaf blowers for gutter cleaning

These are the blowers I would use to clean gutters. Please note that while selecting them I only had two things in mind:

• Their ability to reliably clean gutters without much hassle
• Good price/value ratio

So while they are perfect for this purpose, if you also want to use your new blower for bigger tasks such as cleaning up a huge backyard, you may want to buy something more powerful.

It’s not like they aren’t strong enough, but the battery powered models may run out of juice before you finish your task, so always check the estimated run time before buying.

Greenworks BL80L2510 80V Jet Electric Leaf Blower

This blower is made by Greenworks, a company renowned for its wide range of battery powered tools. What makes it perfect for cleaning gutters is that it’s low on maintenance, but fairly powerful. Battery powered leaf blowers don’t need fuel to run, making them very cheap to operate. And it only weighs 10 lbs, so your arms won’t get tired from holding it in an upwards angle.

It’s pretty strong for its size, so you won’t have any problems removing leaves from your gutter. This is especially true because it has a turbo button, so you can blast through a fairly big pile of leaves with that bit of extra power.

Speaking about power, this blower has a brushless motor capable of delivering up to 580 CFM air volume at an air speed of 145 MPH.

The battery offers up to 22 minutes of run time (this should be enough to finish your task), and can be fully charged in 40 minutes.

Another advantage this model has is that it’s relatively quiet, so you don’t have to worry about your neighbors getting mad at you for using it.

Also, being a Greenworks tool means the battery is interchangeable with other Greenworks products that use the same type of battery. This makes your potential future purchases a lot cheaper, since you only really have to buy the bare tool if you already own the battery that goes with it.

Standout features

• Weighs only 10 lbs
• Up to 22 minutes run time
• Battery fully charges in 40 minutes
• Brushless motor for more power and increased product lifetime
• Up to 580 CFM air volume at 145 MPH air speed
• Greenworks battery allows you to use a wide range of tools

Overall, I find this blower to be a solid choice for gutter cleaning. You can buy it on Amazon.

Hitachi RB24EAP Gas Powered Leaf Blower

I personally prefer battery powered tools, but I know not everyone is like that. For this reason, I decided to include the Hitachi RB24EAP on our list. It’s a gas powered handheld blower with high performance and an impressive warranty.

The blower itself only weighs 8.6 lbs, and features a 23.9 cc 2-stroke engine that is capable of delivering an air volume of 441 CFM at an air speed of 170 MPH.

The main advantage this blower has over the Greenworks I talked about earlier is that you don’t have to worry about battery life. On the other hand, it takes gas to operate so make sure you have some at home if you are planning to use your blower.

Also, the Hitachi RB24EAP is fairly loud so try not to use it early in the morning or late at night.

But on the plus side it delivers high air volume consistently, without the need to press a turbo button for maximum performance.

Another thing worth noting is the warranty on this product which is rather impressive: 7 years for consumer use, 2 years for commercial use, and 1 year for rental use.

Keep in mind that it has a 2-stroke engine, so you’ll have to mix oil into the fuel (or just buy pre-mixed). Check the user manual for the recommended ratio.

Standout features

• Only weighs 8.6 lbs
• 441 CFM air volume, 170 MPH air speed
• Great warranty
• PureFire low emission 2-stroke engine technology

I recommend this blower if you prefer gas powered tools over electric ones, or just looking for a reliable tool in general. You can buy it on Amazon.

Using other leaf blowers

As I’ve said before, if you want to buy a stronger leaf blowers than the ones I recommended, or just prefer different brands in general – that is fine.

You don’t need a leaf blower with some special attributes to clean gutters. As long as it isn’t one of those really small handheld ones you will probably do just fine.

Gutter cleaning kits for leaf blowers

There are a number of gutter cleaning kits available on the market today, so choosing one can be confusing.

My advice is this: If the manufacturer of your leaf blower has its own gutter cleaning attachment, use that. If it doesn’t, just go for one of the “universal fit” attachments out there.

Here is a list of gutter cleaning kits that I know of:

WORX WA4092 Universal Fit Blowers Gutter Cleaning Kit

This is one of those “universal fit” variants I have talked about earlier. It’s usage is pretty straightforward, you assemble the tubes and connect the universal adapter to the nozzle of your leaf blower.

I think this video does a better job explaining how it works than I would:

It’s worth mentioning that universal fit adapters have a tendency of getting blown off the nozzle if you don’t fasten them properly. But at the moment I don’t know of any better solutions.

If your leaf blower’s brand doesn’t have a dedicated gutter cleaning kit, I would probably get this one. You can buy it on Amazon.

Greenworks GK0A00 Universal Gutter Kit

This one is made by Greenworks, but it’s pretty much the same design as the WORX above. It has the same type of adapter from the looks of it, and it’s also marketed as “universal fit”, as long as your blower’s nozzle is smaller than 5 inches in diameter.

If you have a Greenworks leaf blower, I’d get this one just to be sure. Other than that, it’s up to your preference. (Buy on Amazon)

Toro 51667 Gutter Cleaning Kit

Toro has its own gutter cleaning attachment. It comes with 5 extension tubes, and a shoulder strap – something I’m really missing from the other kits out there. It allows you to hold onto the tube with both hands, making the whole process a lot more comfortable.

It should fit most Toro leaf blowers, but check the seller’s page for the supported model numbers before buying, just in case. (Buy on Amazon)

BLACK+DECKER BZOBL50 Quick Connect Gutter Cleaner Attachment

This kit is made by BLACK+DECKER, and from what I understand it should work with all of their leaf blowers where the tube piece of the blower is detachable. Still, you should check the manufacturer’s page before buying just to make sure.

What makes this kit stand out from all the others is that the lower and of the tube is flexible, which makes it very easy to use as you don’t have to move the leaf blower itself if you want to adjust the tube’s angle. (Buy on Amazon)

What to do if your gutter cleaning kit doesn’t fit your leaf blower

This happens sometimes. If you look at the design of most kits, it feels like the manufacturer didn’t think about adding any kind of attachments to their leaf blowers, and just kinda made these as an afterthought to fill a market need. So things like this are bound to happen.

Despite this, most gutter cleaning kits work just fine for most blowers.

However, if you can’t make yours work no matter what then my advice is to use plain old duct tape to keep it in place. It may not be the most elegant solution, but it works. And certainly cheaper than buying a new gutter cleaning kit or a leaf blower.

Conclusion

And with this, we have arrived to the end of this article. Hopefully now you know everything about cleaning gutters with leaf blowers.

See you next time!

Cleaning gutters is one of those tasks many homeowners hate doing, mainly because they either have to climb on the roof or use a ladder to do it. This process can be pretty dangerous if you aren’t experienced enough, but fortunately there are many ways to clean your gutters without climbing on the roof.

The tools most commonly used to clean gutters from the ground include vacuums with a gutter cleaner extension, gutter cleaning applicators, gutter flusher hose attachments, gutter cleaner attachments for pressure washers, and leaf blower gutter cleaner attachments. 

As you can see, many of them are attachments for tools you may already have at home. This makes the whole process a lot cheaper, because you don’t necessarily have to buy some expensive tool just to clean some gutters.

That being said, they all have their respective advantages and drawbacks. Let me show you what these are, so you can select the one that best fits your needs.

Tools for cleaning gutters from the ground

The tools listed here are in no particular order, as all of them can be better or worse than the others depending on your unique situation.

Gutter cleaning extension for vacuums

One of the most common solutions out there is this set of plastic tubes that you can attach to your vacuum cleaner, Shop-Vac or maybe a leaf blower with vacuum functionality.

The end of the tube is bent at an angle allowing it to reach into the gutter while you are standing below it. This is a very comfortable and easy solution if you only have to deal with things like pine needles, smaller leaves and twigs or dust.

On the other hand, I doubt it could get rid of overly large twigs and pine cones so if your gutter regularly gets clogged with those, then this may not be your best option.

As for acquiring such an extension, there are many do-it-yourself guides on the internet, it isn’t complicated after all. But if you aren’t feeling creative you can just buy one on Amazon. Just make sure to check your vacuum’s dimensions before you buy – you don’t want to get an extension that doesn’t fit.

Leaf blower gutter cleaner attachment

These are basically identical to the vacuum extension I have talked about earlier, only in this case they are specifically designed to be attached to a leaf blower.

Blowing the leaves and twigs out of the gutter instead of sucking them in with a vacuum has its own ups and downs. First of all, since in this case they don’t need to fit into a relatively small tube, this method can be used to get rid of those pesky pine cones.

Then there is the fact that you don’t have to stop halfway to empty your vacuum bag. But this is also the downfall of this method, because whatever you blow out of the gutter will inevitably end up on the ground, forcing you to do another round of cleanup later.

Also, since you’ll have lots of debris falling from above, please wear some kind of eye protection while doing this!

Just like the vacuum extension, this one also has plenty of do-it-yourself videos online explaining how to make one yourself. Of course, you can always just buy one. But pay attention, because most manufacturers only make attachments that fit their own leaf blowers.

After doing some research online I came across this “universal fit” gutter cleaning kit from WORX (you can buy it on amazon).

I can actually see it fitting all kinds of leaf blowers since the adapter can be adjusted as long as the diameter of the blower’s tube is smaller than 5″.

I actually found a video review of this kit, you can check it out below:

Gutter flusher hose attachment

This is perhaps one of the simplest solutions out there, since everyone has a garden hose somewhere in their yard. It’s based on the same principle as the blower attachment I talked about earlier (a long tube, allowing you to reach the gutter from the ground).

Only this time, you will use a ray of water to get rid of the leaves and other debris.

Just connect the tool to your hose and you are good to go.

There are a number of products like this on the market but the one that caught my eye was the Orbit 58543 Telescoping Gutter Cleaner (link to Amazon.com).

First of all, this isn’t just a set of tubes you can put together and attach to your hose. It has an actual telescopic pole with a non-slip grip, making it very comfortable to use. Also, it can deliver water pressure similar to that of a pressure washer so you can be sure there won’t be any leftover leaves stuck in your gutters.

The spray head can be rotated in different angles, making it easy to clean up those hard to reach corners. On top of that, even the water pressure can be adjusted.

Downside

As good as it sounds, there is a case where this may not work. Check out this image:

See that little “cage” thing in the gutter? It’s there to ensure that the water can always find a way into the downspout, even if the rest of the gutter is heavily clogged up.

If your gutter has one of these, then using water to get the leaves out of it is probably not viable. However, it may still work if you are only dealing with some small pine needles and dust.

Pressure washer gutter cleaner attachment

Again, this solution is very similar to the previous one. But in this case, we are using an actual pressure washer with a special attachment to clean our gutters.

The main advantage here is that the water ray’s pressure will be higher, making your job all that much easier. But I wouldn’t recommend this method unless you already own a pressure washer. Buying one just so you can clean your gutters can hardly be justified, as they can be rather pricey.

But if you do own one already, then getting an attachment isn’t that much of an expense. I personally don’t have any experience with these, so all I will say is make sure you buy one that works with your specific device.

I don’t know of any company that makes “universal fit” pressure washer kits, so please do your research before you purchase anything.

Gutter cleaning applicator

Many people don’t think about this, but the inside of your gutter isn’t the only thing that needs cleaning. Of course, dust and various other forms of dirt settling on the outside of your gutter won’t clog it up, but it can really ruin the overall look of your home if left unchecked.

If you want to clean the outside of your gutter from the ground, then this Gutter Cleaner Applicator by MarxOff (link to Amazon.com) might just be what you need.

Its pads are made out of synthetic lamb’s wool, which can clean most surfaces easily. It’s designed to fit all common gutters, so you probably won’t have any problems using it.

Downside

The image they provide is a bit misleading, as the product doesn’t contain the extension pole. But it can fit any standard extension poles, so you don’t need to buy another one if you happen to have one already.

Prevent leaves from getting into your gutters with LeafFilter

The methods I listed above work fine, but wouldn’t it be great if you could stop leaves from getting into your gutters in the first place?

Well, there is a company called LeafFilter who does just that. I’ve only learned about them recently, but I’ve been impressed by their innovative technology and the reviews they received.

In short, they offer a service to install a filter on your existing gutters, which is built with micromesh technology using stainless steel. They guarantee that your gutters won’t get clogged ever again. And if that wasn’t impressive enough, they offer a lifetime warranty.

You can ask them for a free quote here.

Also, check out their promo video below. I think it explains their product better than I could.

Hitachi may not be the most well-known brand in the realm of leaf blowers, but you just can’t question their expertise.

From high-quality consumer products to a vast array of commercial solutions, Hitachi’s technology can be found almost everywhere you look.

So, how good is the Hitachi RB24EAP Gas Powered Leaf Blower? Is the extra cost justified for cleaning your yard? Can it do more than just blowing fallen leaves and twigs?

Hitachi RB24EAP Gas Powered Leaf Blower Review

Hey everyone. I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the RB24EAP. And so, I thought this was the perfect time to review this leaf blower.

But, before we proceed, let me get one thing out of the way. If you’re just looking to buy a leaf blower for clearing out dry leaves from small yards, then this product is surely overkill. You can do the same task with a much cheaper electric leaf blower.

This incredible machine can do so much more. In fact, I believe this is the best leaf blower for snow removal in its price range.

That being said, I would only recommend this model for small to medium amounts of snow on your patio, driveway, or sidewalk. If you are dealing with heavy snow, or planning to clear up the entire street in a reasonable time frame, well… That calls for more power.

You can check out my recommendations for a more powerful leaf blower in this article.

Now, let’s find out whether this product can fulfill all your needs.

Pros

Pros

• Excellent air volume and speed.
• Efficient engine, which is low on emissions and CARB Tier III compliant.
• Lightweight and easy to use.

Cons

Cons

• Some users have complained about the customer service.

Check price on Amazon

Standout Features

• The Hitachi RB24EAP Gas Powered Leaf Blower comes with a 23.9 cc 1.13 horsepower commercial grade engine, which features PureFire low-emission two-stroke technology. This ensures not only high power but also low emissions. In fact, this product is CARB Tier III compliant for use in California.
• This leaf blower has not only high air velocity of 170 miles per hour but also excellent air volume of 441 cubic feet per minute (CFM).
• It comes with a large two-finger throttle lever for added convenience.
• This product comes with a seven-year consumer warranty. On the other hand, if you’re planning to use it for commercial purposes, you will get a two year warranty. You can also get up to one year of rental use.

If you want to see it in action, check out the video below!

As you can see, it does fairly well even with huge piles of snow. That being said, if your area regularly gets covered by thick snow, I would recommend you get something stronger.

Excellent Air Volume and Speed

Despite what companies advertise, a leaf blower is only capable when it has a balance between air volume and air velocity. So, don’t be fooled by cheaper products which have a significantly higher air speed, but low air volume.

Also, one thing to keep in mind is that many companies measure air volume and speed in the areas where these are maximum. And not at the nozzle where it matters.

Thankfully, Hitachi doesn’t try to fool its customers and only measures these fields at the nozzle. Now, I didn’t try to verify the exact speed and volume. But, in my experience, this product worked better than the Husqvarna 952711925 28cc Gas Powered Handheld Blower, which has similar velocity and slightly higher air volume.

I had a chance to test this product out when I went over to my cousin’s place in Denver, Colorado. You see, he owns this nifty machine as it snows a lot where he lives.

After a night of heavy snowfall, I set out to clear the front steps, driveway and my cousin’s cars. Honestly, after seeing the amount of snow, I didn’t think the RB24EAP would be up to the task.

However, this leaf blower performed like a champion, and I was done with the task well within an hour! Honestly, I was absolutely blown away by the performance. In fact, I believe that Hitachi’s advertised air speed and volume is possibly lower than the actual values.

Lightweight and Convenient

One of the best things I like about the Hitachi RB24EAP is how lightweight it is, despite being so powerful. In fact, its closest competitor, the Husqvarna 952711925, is almost 1 lb heavier than it.

Now, that might not seem like much at first glance, but if you’re a professional operating it for long hours, it makes a significant difference.

And its convenience only gets better when you factor in the large two-finger throttle lever, which makes the hand-held operation a breeze. Also, I had no problem with starting the leaf blower. Throughout my review period, it took me at most two pulls to get the engine going. Bear in mind, I was operating it in subzero climate.

Powerful and Efficient Engine

Now, we all know that a gas powered leaf blower isn’t really environmentally friendly. However, the Hitachi RB24EAP does a better job than its direct competitors.

In my testing period, I found it to be quite efficient, more so than similarly powerful leaf blowers. Moreover, this product is CARB Tier III compliant, which makes it legal for use in California.

Excellent Warranty

Who doesn’t like a good warranty on their product? And in this area, the Hitachi RB24EAP has its competitors soundly beat by a country mile.

This leaf blower comes with a seven years consumer warranty. However, if you want to use it for commercial applications, you will get a two years warranty.

What are users saying about the product?

Even the best of products come with flaws. And Hitachi RB24EAP isn’t immune to that.

The most common complaint about this product is regarding the customer service. Since you can’t ship anything with fuel in it, it’s hard to get this leaf blower repaired, unless you have an authorized service center near your location.

In my opinion, you should talk to your nearest Hitachi service center before setting out to buy this product.

Apart from that, most users have raved about the model and some have even proclaimed this leaf blower to be the best they’ve ever used.

Verdict

I’ve used many gas powered leaf blowers. However, only a handful have impressed me as much as the Hitachi RB24EAP. From its sheer power and ease of use to its affordable price, this product leaves little to be desired.

So, if you’re in the market for an all-purpose product which can handle not only demanding leaf blowing tasks but also clear snow, you can’t go wrong with the Hitachi RB24EAP.

When the fall season comes to visit, it’s always a certainty that leaves will come off the trees and go all over the place.

There are lots of interesting and creative ways to remove the leaves from your property without using a rake.

If you take some time to look into these methods, you will be able to pick up those pesky leaves with maximum efficiency and minimal effort!

Use a Leaf Blower

Leaf blowers definitely offer the fastest and most efficient means of removing leaves. There are lots of different models to choose from, so you should take the time to look over your options.

These devices have evolved quite a bit over the years to become the impressive and powerful tools they are today.

If you feel like buying one of these devices, you can check out my recommendations in this article.

If you are going to use a leaf blower to remove leaves from your property, you should follow these steps:

• Plan it out: First you will need to decide exactly where you want all of the leaves to go. This way you will know exactly where to blow all of them.
• Hold it properly: You will need to hold the leaf blower down to your side at all times, pointed at a downward angle. This is the most efficient way to use these devices.
• Move from one end to the other: It’s always a good idea to avoid going back and forth over your yard as much as possible when removing leaves. Make sure that you start at one end and work towards the other without going all over the place.
• Avoid tough areas: When you are removing leaves with a leaf blower, always make sure to avoid blowing them into tough areas like gutters, corners or drains. It can be very difficult to get the leaves out of these places.

Additionally, you can read this article for more tips.

Some cities in certain states have laws against gas-powered leaf blowers, so you will need to keep this in mind. It is always a good idea to look into this before buying a new blower or using the one you currently have.

I’ve written an article about said laws a while ago, you can read it here.

Pick them up with a Leaf Vacuum

Leaf vacuums can also offer a very effective and simple way to remove leaves. These devices suck the leaves up and mulch them into smaller pieces, then collect them into a bag.

One of the reasons that so many people use these vacuums is because they work fast and don’t create as much of a mess as some other methods.

It is important to note that on larger lawns they work best in combination with a leaf blower. First, you collect the leaves in piles using the blower, then you can just suck them into a bag with your leaf vacuum.

Some leaf blowers even have dual functionality – they can switch between the roles of a leaf blower and vacuum with the push of a button. This is a very useful feature to have!

One such leaf vacuum would be the BLACK+DECKER BV6000. It’s very affordable, and being multi functional makes it perfect for smaller yards. You can buy it on Amazon.

Check out this video to see how it performs:

Keep in mind, leaf vacuums by themselves aren’t the best option for removing large piles of leaves, but they can be of great help to those with smaller yards.

If you typically don’t have a ton of leaves to take care of, this can be a rather effective method.

A leaf vacuum can help to keep your patio, deck or porch areas clean and looking good. Overall, they are a great tool to have in your arsenal.

Mulch them up with a Lawn Mower

You can also use your lawn mower to mulch the leaves up, and there are a number of benefits to doing this.

Mulching your leaves with your mower can effectively prepare your lawn for winter, and it will save you a lot of hard work.

The first thing you need to do is check to see if your current lawn mower has the ability to mulch. If your mower has a bag and side discharge feature, you should be able to use this method without any issues.

You can see how this works in the video below.

Make sure that you run the mower over your lawn in clean sections so you can cover the previously discharged section from the last pass you made.

You can mow in circles, though some people find this a bit challenging (myself included).

If your grass is of normal height, you can feel free to just switch your mower over to the mulch function.

One of the best things about using this method is that you can just keep the mulched leaves on your lawn – it will serve as compost.  This is one of the easiest ways to take care of your leaves come fall time.

Use a Flat Piece of Cardboard

Another creative way to remove leaves from your lawn is to take a flat, smooth piece of cardboard or other stiff material and use it to push the leaves towards the curb.

Simply bend down and angle the cardboard down so that it pushes the leaves as you go forward.

This can be a little harsh on your lower back, but it does work very well. It is also one of the cheaper options out there.

Check out the video below for a live demonstration.

Increase Your Performance with Scoops

Scoop or claw devices can also be very helpful for collecting large piles of leaves in your yard quickly and easily.

These devices are shaped like claws and will allow you to scoop up big piles of leaves without straining yourself or wasting a lot of time.

They are fairly cheap and you can find them at a lot of hardware stores as well as on the internet.

Check out this video below to see what I mean.

Final Thoughts

While it is true that there are lots of creative and effective ways to remove leaves on your property, using a leaf blower is almost always the best option.

Leaf blowers are convenient, powerful and can help you deal with a variety of debris without any hassle.

Just make sure you take enough time to see which ones are available before buying anything. It’s always a good idea to do your research, so you can get what you actually need.

Evergreen pine trees can be quite beautiful, but they also shed their pines like crazy. Anyone who has at least one of these trees in their yard near rocks knows just how difficult the pines can be to get out.

There are numerous ways to deal with this problem, and it’s good to know what your options are.

Why Are Pine Needles so Hard to Remove?

Removing pine needles from rocks or rock gardens presents a unique challenge because they are so small.

The sheer size of these needles makes them very difficult to pick up by hand, and there are often too many of them to make doing this worthwhile anyway.

Pine needles are extremely thin, so they can be very tricky to get at when they are stuck in between rocks.

Methods of Removing Pine Needles from Rocks

If pine needles tend to accumulate between / on the rocks in your yard, there are a number of methods that you can use to remove them.

Some of these methods can be more or less effective than others depending on the situation. So, you’ll have to consider which one is best for you.

Leaf Blower

Using a leaf blower is definitely the best method for cleaning up pine needles from rocks. If you decide to do it this way, make sure that you aim the leaf blower at the pine needles towards the edge of the rocks so they blow out of them rather than deeper inside.

This might be a little bit tricky at first, but you should get the hang of it fairly quickly.

One of the best things about using a leaf blower for this is that you don’t need one that is very strong.

Pine needles are extremely small and lightweight, so you should be able to use a basic handheld leaf blower to get the job done without any problems.

A backpack leaf blower is definitely going to the most effective way to clean up your pine needles. These blowers are very powerful and will definitely be able to solve your problem within a matter of minutes.

If you are looking to buy such a device, you can check out my top recommendations in this article.

You will have to use your blower on a power setting that is strong enough to move the needles, but not strong enough to move your rocks.

Also, if you are dealing with a rock garden and you have plants growing there, try to use your blower on the lowest power setting. Otherwise the airflow can be strong enough to damage your plants!

While buying one of these just to get rid of pine needles might be overkill, don’t forget about the numerous other tasks they can be used for. Such as blowing fallen leaves (obviously), or blowing snow during winter.

Vacuum cleaner

Some people choose to use a vacuum cleaner instead of a leaf blower, though they are usually not quite as effective at this particular task. The main reason I avoid these is because they suck in a lot of sand and pebbles, which can damage your equipment.

That being said, if you think your device can handle it, or if there isn’t much sand around your rocks, you can give it a try.

Power Washer

Those who happen to own a power washer might find that this particular piece of equipment can also be effective in cleaning rocks. This is only a good option for people who want to get pine needles off the rocks and do not mind if they go underneath them.

Don’t try this if your rocks are small as they will be washed away too. Also, do not do this if you have plants growing in your rock garden – this powerful ray of water would be devastating for them!

A side benefit of using this method is that you can effectively take unsightly stains off your rocks within just seconds. However, this is definitely not the best method for completely removing pine needles or leaves from between rocks.

Use a Broom

When dealing with huge rocks, a simple broom can also be very helpful when you want to clean up the area.

You can sweep the needles to the ground to organize them in piles before picking them up with your hands.

This method can take a while if you have a lot of pine needles, so you should keep that in mind. Also, this only works if your rocks are big, and the gap between them is wide enough for your broom to fit in.

You also have the option of using a vacuum to pick up the needles once you have used the broom to dislodge them from in between the rocks.

Tape

You can also consider using pieces of tape to pick up groups of pine needles that are trapped in your rocks. Duct tape can be particularly helpful in this case. You can also use packaging tape, which tends to be very sticky and strong.

This is a good method if you only have a limited number of pine needles to contend with. Otherwise, using only tape to get all of the pine needles can be quite time consuming.

A lint roller (such as the kind that you use to remove pet hair from clothing and furniture) can also be useful for this purpose.

Simply move the roller back and forth over the pine needles until you need to peel back the adhesive material to reveal another layer.

This could take a while, but it is an effective method if your rock garden is well organized and you don’t want to mess it up.

Mop Them Up

A sticky mop can also be quite helpful for picking up stubborn pine needles. Once the mop is full, you will need to rinse the needles with water and gather them up in a bucket.

Next you can choose to throw the needles away or use them for other purposes. Again, this only works if you are dealing with huge rocks. Otherwise you’d just mop the rocks away too.

Use a Small Shovel

There is also the option of using a small garden shovel to collect the pine needles. This could also bring up quite a bit of dirt, which can make this task quite challenging.

If there isn’t a lot of dirt around the rocks, you shouldn’t have much of an issue with using this method.

Final thoughts

There are a few important things to keep in mind when it comes to removing pine needles stuck among rocks. First of all, how many are you dealing with?

The cleaning method that you use will partially depend on the amount of needles you need to remove from the rocks. Not all of the approaches listed above are ideal for large quantities of these needles.

If you have a leaf blower, you definitely want to use it. This will provide you with the fastest and most efficient way to get the job done. Those who do not already have a leaf blower should think about getting one because of how versatile and useful they are.

Once you are done cleaning up your pine needles, you should get rid of them as they can’t be used for composting purposes like other types of leaves.