When caring for your lawn, do-it-yourself projects are much easier when using high-quality outdoor power tools. From clearing autumn leaves to removing grass clippings, leaf blowers are useful for removing all sorts of debris. With plenty of types on the market, it’s important to select one that works for your needs. Check the list below for things to keep in mind when shopping for a leaf blower.

What to Look For In a Leaf Blower

1. Variable Airspeed

The higher the airspeed, the easier it will be to move large amounts of debris, and variable airspeed allows for adjustments. A fixed-speed unit with low airspeed can easily move dry leaves, but may not be strong enough to handle soggy debris. One that offers a high fixed speed can move heavy debris but may be difficult to control when trying to remove grass clippings.

2. Carry Method

This outdoor power tool comes in three carry styles: handheld, backpack, and wheeled. Handheld blowers are the smallest and least powerful but can be perfect for modest yards. Backpack blowers take the weight off your arms, ideal for more time-consuming work. Wheeled leaf blowers are more powerful, making them a great choice for larger yards with lots of debris.

3. Noise Level

Since leaf blowers are a noisier outdoor power tool, its decibel level should be considered, especially since some neighborhoods place restrictions on the noise levels. Electric leaf blowers tend to be less noisy than gasoline-powered styles.

4. CFM Rating

The CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating indicates the amount of air moved by the leaf blower in one minute. A small blower has a CFM rating in the 300 range. For bigger jobs, a CFM rating of 500 or more would be ideal.

5. Power Source

Gasoline-powered leaf blowers tend to be stronger, but are also harder to start and require more maintenance. Electric leaf blowers are easy to use and come in corded or cordless models. And, while corded models tend to have a limited range since they must be plugged in to run, they don’t require recharging.

 

If you’re in the market for a leaf blower, check out the outdoor power tool pros at L & R Power Equipment Inc. in Monroe, CT. With an extensive range of high-quality equipment from STIHL®, their experienced staff has been serving the community for over 50 years and knows what you need to get the job done right. From electric lawnmowers and hand tools to backpack sprayers and chainsaws, they keep an abundance of tools in stock. For more information, call (203) 268-8400 or visit their website.