In the fall, removing leaves from your yard can be made much easier with a leaf blower. In the winter, a snow blower helps you keep walkways clear. These two pieces of outdoor equipment have a few similarities, leading some people to use them interchangeably. However, there are some major differences to consider as well. Here are the most important things to consider when choosing outdoor equipment for fall and winter.

Difference Between a Leaf & Snow Blower

A standard leaf blower is a handheld device that blows air at leaves, causing them to move in one direction. A snow blower is a larger piece of equipment that travels along the ground and scoops up snow before blowing it away in one direction. A leaf blower is usually easier to handle, but it doesn’t contain the ground element that is so important when dealing with heavy snow. Additionally, snow blowers are often powered by gas, while leaf blowers tend to be electric.

Can You Use Them Interchangeably?

In some specific instances, you may be able to use a leaf blower to remove snow. If you have a very small yard or walkway and only have a light dusting of powdery snow, a leaf blower should work to clear those paths. However, any sort of wet, heavy snow will not move effectively with a leaf blower. You need the ground element to pick up more than an inch or so of snow. Additionally, you must use care when operating an electric leaf blower in the snow to avoid an electric shock. Only operate with dry hands, and check the cord casing for any cracks that may let snow in.

Ideally, you should use both of these important pieces of outdoor equipment to maintain your yard throughout the fall and winter. First Quality Power Place in Middlefield, OH, carries name-brand equipment, including lawn mowers, tractors, trimmers, chippers, and chainsaws, to help you maintain your property. The family-owned company has been providing excellent products and friendly customer service to the community since 1981. Visit their website to view a selection of new outdoor equipment models for sale, and call (440) 632-5068 to discuss power equipment maintenance.