![the wirecutter leaf blower the wirecutter leaf blower](https://i.pinimg.com/474x/fe/43/1a/fe431a9f3780765db483829d9576a8e9.jpg)
In California, some communities ban all leaf blowers, no matter how quiet their operation.Ĭheck your town’s regulations or go to the Noise Pollution Clearinghouse for a nationwide list of guidelines. Some communities prohibit leaf-blower use during certain hours others ban gas blowers altogether because they tend to be louder than electric models. Product labels list decibels, so you can compare noise levels as you shop. In our surveys, they’re also more reliable, which means they’re less likely to end up in a landfill.Īs anyone with an early rising, yard-obsessed neighbor can confirm, a running leaf blower can get really loud. They have no emissions at the point of use, and they run far more efficiently.
![the wirecutter leaf blower the wirecutter leaf blower](https://32.cdn.ekm.net/ekmps/shops/playtime360/images/3000w-corded-leaf-blower-949-p.jpg)
Keep in mind that a gas leaf blower, like any gas powered tool, requires more maintenance than an electric model.Įlectric blowers, whether corded or cordless, are also better for the environment. It’s also the only kind that’s available as a wheeled option, which makes for easier, quicker cleanup. A gas leaf blower, even handheld and backpack varieties, can be taken far and wide for an indefinite amount of time as long as you keep the tank full. With that in mind, if you have a large expanse of land with lots of leaves, you might consider gas. It’s just that they have a limited run time per battery charge-expect 8 to 30 minutes on a charge. That’s not to say battery blowers are less powerful than gas blowers, especially when it comes to the typical yard. Despite being relative newcomers to the field, battery leaf blowers now offer power on a par with gas models.
![the wirecutter leaf blower the wirecutter leaf blower](https://cdn.designrulz.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Leaf-Blower-5.jpg)
Generally speaking, the difference in decibel levels can be significant. If you don’t need to blow leaves for long stretches-like half an hour or longer-you might do well with a battery model. Even if your town allows gas leaf blowers, you may want to consider the noise aspect. Some ban gas leaf blowers altogether because most (though not all) tend to be louder than any type of electric variety. Whichever you choose, remember to wear goggles and a dust mask they’ll protect your eyes and lungs from fine particulates blowing around, especially in dusty, dry conditions.īefore you weigh your options, check your town’s regulations to see whether you even have options. The best leaf blower for you depends on the work required and your own preferences. There are also a variety of styles-from handheld models to backpack blowers to wheeled varieties. You can choose from gas, corded electric, and cordless electric (battery-powered) leaf blowers. Leaf blowers come in handy for cleaning summer’s sandy decks and winter’s light snow, as well as dirty walkways and porches. And a great leaf blower isn’t just a once-a-year-tool for clearing fallen foliage-it’s useful year-round. Fortunately, a leaf blower can make short work of clearing the mess. What’s more of a headache? The mounds of decaying leaves come spring, if you don’t deal with them before winter. But it also fast becomes a headache when your maples and oaks eventually shed their gorgeous leaves all over your lawn.
![the wirecutter leaf blower the wirecutter leaf blower](https://32.cdn.ekm.net/ekmps/shops/playtime360/images/3000w-corded-leaf-blower-[4]-949-p.jpg)
If you have deciduous trees in your yard, fall is no doubt a beautiful time of year, as leaves transform into flaming reds, oranges, and yellows.