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How Do I Choose the Best Cordless Leaf Blower?

Jeremy Laukkonen
Jeremy Laukkonen

There are a number of factors to consider when looking for a cordless leaf blower, such as the local regulations in your area. Some areas have noise restrictions, and others have specific regulations governing gasoline powered equipment. You may also want to consider other factors like your budget, the size of your yard, and how much weight you can comfortably carry around. Price is usually dictated by factors such as how powerful a unit is, and whether it uses a gasoline motor or runs on battery power, so you can save money by choosing a blower that is appropriate for your yard size. Electric blowers are usually less expensive, and tend to be lighter than gas powered units, so take that into consideration if you are concerned about fatigue from carrying around a heavy leaf blower.

When you start looking for a cordless leaf blower, the first step is to check into any local ordinances or covenants that might affect your purchase. If there are any ordinances or covenants that specifically prohibit leaf blowers, you will typically be better off with a rake. Some ordinances only mention acceptable noise levels though, in which case you will need to look for a cordless leaf blower that is rated at a lower decibel level than the specified limit in your area. It is also important to check into specific restrictions on gasoline powered equipment as well, such as the California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations that all leaf blowers need to meet.

An electric cordless leaf blower is lighter and less expensive than gasoline powered units.
An electric cordless leaf blower is lighter and less expensive than gasoline powered units.

After you have verified that you can legally use leaf blowers in your area, you will need to decide between an electric or gasoline powered model. Electric cordless leaf blowers tend to be lighter and less expensive, though gasoline powered units are often much more powerful. If you have a very large yard with a lot of trees, a gasoline powered cordless leaf blower will typically be the best choice. Especially big jobs can also be easier to complete if you look for a unit that has an adjustable blower head. If price or weight are more important to you, then you may be happier with a battery powered cordless leaf blower.

The primary consideration when trying to choose the best battery powered leaf blower is the size of the battery. In order to choose the right unit, you should check the specifications to see how long the leaf blower can operate between charges. If you select a unit with a battery that is too small, you may find yourself needing to stop and recharge before you have finished blowing your yard. Another option is to purchase one or more extra batteries, though that can add a significant extra expense to the overall cost of the blower.

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    • An electric cordless leaf blower is lighter and less expensive than gasoline powered units.
      By: Fotolia RAW
      An electric cordless leaf blower is lighter and less expensive than gasoline powered units.