As autumn rolls around and leaves begin to fall, leaf blowers become a go-to tool for some homeowners and landscapers. These machines save time and effort, making quick work of leaf removal compared to raking. However, like any power tool, leaf blowers require proper care and maintenance to ensure longevity and efficiency. These handy tools make clearing your outdoor spaces a breeze, but with several types available, it can be tricky to know which one is right for you.
Types of Leaf Blowers
Cordless (Battery-Powered) Leaf Blowers
Cordless leaf blowers are all about freedom. With no wires to trip over, you can tackle leaves and debris wherever they are. Powered by rechargeable batteries, these blowers are perfect for medium-sized gardens. They're lightweight, easy to use, and environmentally friendly. However, their battery life is limited—typically lasting between 20 and 60 minutes—so they're best suited for quick, smaller tasks.
Corded Electric Leaf Blowers
If you have a smaller garden or need to tidy up a patio or driveway, a corded electric leaf blower is a fantastic choice. These blowers are light, affordable, and offer constant power without the need to recharge or refuel. The downside? You’ll need to work near a power source or use an extension lead, which can limit your range. But for small jobs, they're reliable and hassle-free.
Petrol-Powered Leaf Blowers
For those with larger gardens or tougher tasks, petrol-powered leaf blowers are the heavyweights of the garden world. These blowers pack a punch, making light work of large volumes of leaves or stubborn debris. Since they don’t rely on cables or batteries, they offer excellent mobility and longer run times. However, they’re heavier, louder, and require a bit more upkeep, like fuel mixing and engine maintenance, so they’re better for those with bigger outdoor spaces to manage.
What Can You Use a Leaf Blower For?
Clearing Leaves: The main task, of course! Blow leaves into neat piles for easy collection and disposal.
Removing Garden Debris: Great for shifting grass clippings, small twigs, and dirt from lawns, patios, and driveways.
Gutter Cleaning: Some blowers come with attachments that let you blow out leaves and debris from your gutters.
Light Snow Clearing: Believe it or not, leaf blowers can also be handy for clearing light snow from your paths and driveways during winter.
Quick and Easy Leaf Blower Maintenance Tips
To keep your leaf blower running like a dream, a little maintenance goes a long way. Here’s how to keep it in tip-top shape:
Clean After Each Use
Once you're done blowing leaves, take a few minutes to clean the blower. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clear out any leaves, dust, and debris from the vents and fan area. This helps prevent blockages and ensures your blower maintains its power.
Take Care of the Battery (Cordless Models)
If you’ve got a cordless model, make sure to look after the battery. Don’t let it run completely flat too often and avoid overcharging it. Store the battery in a cool, dry place, and if you’re putting it away for the season, keep the battery at around 50% charge to extend its lifespan.
Inspect the Cable (Corded Models)
For corded blowers, always check the power cable for any wear or damage before use. A frayed cord can be a safety hazard, so make sure it’s in good condition before you start. Also, avoid tugging the cable while working to prevent unnecessary wear.
Fuel and Oil Maintenance (Petrol Models)
For petrol-powered blowers, it’s crucial to use fresh fuel and the correct oil-to-petrol ratio. Stale fuel can cause engine problems, so if you’re not using the blower for a while, drain the fuel tank or use a fuel stabiliser. This will help keep the engine running smoothly and prevent starting issues when you need it next.
Check the Air Filter
Regularly inspect the air filter to ensure it’s free from dirt and debris. A clean filter keeps your blower working efficiently.
Tighten Up Loose Screws
Vibration from regular use can cause screws and bolts to loosen over time. Give your blower a quick check before each use and tighten anything that’s come loose to keep it working safely.
By following these simple maintenance tips, your leaf blower will stay in excellent condition, ready to tackle whatever your garden throws at it. Whether you're clearing leaves in autumn or doing a quick tidy-up, a well-maintained blower will make your garden chores fast, easy, and stress-free!
View our full range here