Blast Outdoor Dirt With Our Pressure Washer Buying Guide for 2021
It’s fair to say that a pressure washer removes the burden of carrying out arduous exterior cleaning. It allows you to clean everything from garden furniture, vans, trucks, cars to bikes.
The benefit of a pressure washer lies within its adaptability to clean areas such as driveways, patios, decking and paving. Although it might appear that a power washer uses more water than a regular garden hose it actually doesn’t! It uses a fraction of the water compared to a garden hose when carrying out a similar job, therefore, is kinder to the environment.
The choice of pressure washers currently on the market is vast, therefore, it can be daunting to figure out the best jet washer for your outdoor cleaning requirements. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the available options to help you pinpoint the best choice.
The first thing we need to draw our attention to is the power of the pressure washer. The power can be measured in 3 different ways-
The water flow rate is calculated in Litres Per Hour.
The pressure at which the water is expelled, calculated in Bars.
How powerful is the pressure washer? This is calculated in Watts (W) for electric or Horsepower (Hp) for petrol-powered washers.
If you’ve set your sights on buying a pressure washer or jet washer you’ve come to the right place. It will speed up the rate of cleaning difficult areas that would normally take considerably longer to clean manually.
Before rushing out to go buy a pressure washer you need to know a few important features that will save you a lot of hassle and frustration later on. Reading through this guide will arm you with the knowledge of the type of functionality to expect from a pressure washer and provide you with a good idea of how to use one. I’ll demystify any of the questions you might have so that you can buy with confidence.
At the very least, you will require liquid soap, an adapter to connect the machine to a hose, and a hosepipe to operate the pressure washer effectively. To get the most from your pressure washer, it will need to come with accessories and attachments to ensure that it can carry out various tasks on different types of surfaces. For instance, there are foam cannons, that can be attached to a pressure washer to help with car cleaning.
If your new pressure washer is supplied with brushes then you are going to find the whole cleaning process much easier. Brushes will improve the removal of residue, stains and stubborn dirt. You can even use an angled wand attachment to clean hard to reach areas such as gutters.
An extension wand is one of the most important accessories to help with extending your reach and speed up cleaning time. My advice would be- the more accessories and attachments the better! It will save you the cost of buying different machines for different jobs.
The two vital calculations to look out for are water flow and water pressure. A powerful pressure washer will be equipped with a higher bar. Focus on finding an appliance with a good balance between the two to help you get the most out of your beloved jet washer.
Before you decide on the amount of water pressure and flow required you should think about the types of tasks your pressure washer is intended for, how frequently you want to clean and the amount of dirt you need it to clean. An appliance with good pressure and flow will ultimately reward you with great cleaning and rinsing results.
Higher water pressure will tackle tough dirt more effectively and challenging terrains such as concrete slabs or pavements. A good water flow rate will ensure that a thorough rinse is delivered to complete the job. If you’re after a pressure washer to clean your car quickly, you want one with a high water flow rate.
As a general rule, the higher the pressure, the more suitable the tool is for cleaning stubborn dirt and harder surfaces – such as paving and concrete. The water flow rate reflects its performance when rinsing. So, if you’re looking to speed up tasks like car cleaning, a higher water flow rate can be helpful.
Most modern pressure washers come with the convenience of adjustable pressure for different tasks. A high-pressure unit can usually be adjusted to work at lower pressures for less demanding tasks.
It’s advised not to use pressure washers to clean glass or brickwork as the water pressure is too high and can potentially degrade or destroy them. I would recommend using a window vacuum as an alternative.
PRESSURE WASHERS HAVE MANY USES BESIDES CAR CLEANING
When deciding to buy a pressure washer or jet washer you should remember that this nifty device can be used for a lot more things besides just car cleaning. Why not clean your driveway or courtyard whilst you’re at it! Always check that your potential appliance is robust enough to carry out the tasks you intend it to do.
I’ve summarised a list of some of the tasks that you can expect to carry out according to the different pressure levels:
100 Bar- Occasional usage
Cleaning garden or outdoor furniture.
Cleaning your rubbish bin.
Washing your bicycle.
Rinsing mud from garden tools.
Washing your motorbike.
110 to 130 Bar- Moderate usage
Washing your car, truck or van.
Clearing the gutter.
Cleaning a lawnmower.
Cleaning your swimming pools or jacuzzi.
Washing a boat or yacht.
Cleaning a fence.
130+ Bar- Intensive usage
Cleaning concrete slabs on driveway and paving.
Washing the patio
Cleaning your decking.
If you’re considering a pressure washer mainly for car cleaning then a midrange appliance is more than adequate. You don’t want to use a unit that is too powerful as you could risk damaging your car’s paintwork with the high pressure.
If you intend on focusing mostly on tougher jobs such as washing away years of dirt that has accumulated on your patio or paving then a device with high pressure is best. You want a pressure washer that can achieve more than 130 Bar of pressure for tougher tasks.
Should You Buy an Electric or Petrol Pressure Washer?
Did you know that pressure washers can either be powered by electric or petrol?
Electric Pressure Washers
Generally, if you’re looking for a pressure washer for domestic use it will be electrically powered. Household brands such as Sun Joe, Karcher or GreenWorks supply different electric variants ranging from light to intensive usage. Simply connect your new pressure washer into an exterior power supply that is protected with an RCD (residual current device) and you’re good to go.
It’s also a good idea to have an outdoor extension lead readily available so that you can extend the range of the cleaning area and speed things up.
What about Petrol-Powered Pressure Washers?
Petrol powered pressure washers are not as popular as electric models but are extremely handy for larger spaces. They are useful for areas with limited power supplies and if you need to clean areas that are further than your domestic space.
The advantage of a petrol pressure washer is that you’re not limited to a power supply, which makes it an ideal appliance for commercial usage plus you don’t need to worry about cables tangling up.
It’s also worth noting that petrol pressure washers are equipped with a higher range of power, thus, making them the ideal accessory for difficult jobs. Bear in mind that you will need to purchase enough fuel whenever you need to use it. Always check that you buy the correct fuel, and as an extra precaution, you should invest in a robust container to store the fuel.
Pressure Washer Motors
Did you know that not all motors in a pressure washer are the same? In fact, there are three different types that you can find but it’s not something that you need to worry about. Below is a summary of the different motors-
Universal motor: This is a basic portable motor that works at a high speed, however, it is louder than the alternatives and often has a shorter shelf life.
Brush motor: This motor contains brushes that constantly connect with the revolving section of the motor. The drawback is that over time the resulting friction minimises efficiency and wears it out.
Induction motor – This is one of the best types of motors found on a pressure washer. It is a sophisticated motor built to operate at a lower noise level and to last longer than other motors.
Pressure Washer Features
Before settling on which pressure washer to buy, there are some handy features that you should be aware of that will vastly improve the performance of your washer.
The length of the hose is usually measured in metres and is the middle man between the primary unit and trigger gun. Always check that the hose length coincides with the size of the area that you intend to clean. Don’t get caught out with a short hose.
Pressure Washer Lance
The lance is connected to the trigger gun to give better control of the flow of water. Some models will allow you to lower or increase water pressure whilst maintaining the same rate of water usage. Clever huh? The benefit of using a lance is that it improves the precision in which you clean, therefore, targeting the exact areas that you need the water to go.
Handling Your Pressure Washer
For bigger jobs like cleaning the patio or driveway, it’s best to buy a pressure washer with wheels and a handle so that you can move it easily from one area to the next. Wheels are also handy if you are going to be storing the unit in an area that’s separate to where you’ll be cleaning. A model that’s easier to wheel around will speed up the job and avoid unnecessary delays.
Automatic Pressure Washers
Modern pressure washers now have the ability to automatically start and stop to conserve water. The start/stop mechanism uses the trigger on the spray gun to control the water flow instead of manual switching it on the primary unit. You can easily position yourself to the exact area before spraying water and as a result, you’ll use up less water and soap.
Pressure Washer Accessories
When it comes to using a pressure washer effectively, accessories are invaluable. You can get a lot more done with a good set of accessories and tackle a variety of chores.
At the very least, all pressure washers are supplied with a generic spray head for regular cleaning tasks, however, a machine with a generous set of attachments will improve your cleaning experience and effectiveness. Don’t forget to use a good detergent.
Pressure Washing brushes
Pressure washers can be connected to special brushes adapted for car cleaning. A good set of brushes will efficiently remove dirt from motorbikes, vans, trucks and ease the burden of cleaning difficult areas such as wheel arches, rims or hub caps.
Cleaning Patios and Larger Areas
Clearing dirt from pathways, concrete slabs and the pavements is not easy. For this, you need a patio cleaning accessory to remove mess without causing more mess!
The attachment focuses the water pressure and water flow onto a specific area to remove layers of dirt that have built up over many months or years. The tool is adapted for large spaces and helps you to cover more ground in less time.
Some pressure washers are cleverly fitted with onboard storage so that you can keep all your tools in one place. It means that your new machine and its attachments will take up less space, accessories won’t get lost and are always within easy reach during a job.
What is a Suction hose?
Rather than using water from a tap, a suction hose lets you draw water from a static body of water such as a bucket. A suction hose is handy for households fitted with a rainwater collector or for situations where you want to clean an area without a tap that’s closeby.
Another benefit of using a suction hose to draw its water supply from rainwater is that you can use your pressure washer even when a hosepipe ban is in place.
Let’s Talk About Detergent
A good detergent goes a long way! Choosing the right one will ensure that cleaning is faster and more effective. Your efforts will last much longer too. Depending on the model you go for, your pressure washer will usually be equipped with a detergent tank that can be filled up with your soap of choice.
Other models are designed with advanced cleaning mechanisms with swappable detergent tanks that let you change an empty canister for a fresh one during cleaning. This means there are no interruptions whether you’re working on a small or big job.
Whatever you decide to do, you should ensure that your new unit can use various detergents and can work with any detergents that you might already have. The unit should also be fitted with a system to regulate the quantity of the detergent.
Detergents are hugely beneficial and make light work of challenging tasks. You will get better results and be armed with a thorough cleaning system that effectively removes stubborn dirt such as grease, mud or oil.
Pressure Washer: Frequently Asked Questions
Water Flow, What is It?
The water flow measures the rate at which water is expelled. A stronger water flow means that a higher amount of water is utilised. How do you measure water flow? It’s calculated in Litres Per Hour and can go from about 290 to 600 litres per hour on premium units. A stronger water flow will wash away dirt more effectively.
What does Bar Pressure mean?
The Bar pressure is the rate of force that water is expelled. A stronger bar pressure will cut through dirt easier. Smaller tasks such as cleaning outdoor furniture or washing your car won’t need the level of pressure required to clean a dirty driveway or decking. A higher pressure should be reserved for challenging tasks.
Is it Better to Prioritise Bar Pressure or Water Flow?
Both features are important and complement each other to deliver an effective cleaning machine. Areas such as patios are harder to clean, therefore, will require higher pressure to remove layers of dirt, however, a high water flow will speed up the task and wash away dirt quicker.
A good pressure washer will come with the perfect balance between bar pressure and water flow. I would recommend using the link below to find a high-performance machine with an adjustable bar pressure and/or water flow.
Always keep you jet washer in a dry area with good ventilation. During the colder months, it’s advisable to keep the unit in a warmer room, instead of the shed or garage, to avoid damage to the pump caused by frozen water that might be left inside the machine.
Is a Pressure Washer Worth Buying?
Deciding whether to buy a pressure washer or not depends on the tasks that you intend to do. If you’re looking for an easier way to clean outdoors then you won’t find a better appliance. It’s incredible to see just how much dirt a pressure washer removes from bikes, cars, caravans, trucks, pavements, patios, rubbish bins, gutters, garage doors, and so much more. The list of things you can do with a jet washer is virtually endless, therefore, making it one of the best appliances you can buy for your home.
What is the Best Detergent To Use?
There are plenty of detergents to choose from specifically made for pressure washers. In most cases, your new model should be compatible with any type of detergent. Many manufacturers supply their own detergents to use with their pressure washers, therefore, it’s worth checking out the different types that are available for specific tasks and how much they cost.
Is the Power Cable Long Enough?
Brands such as Karcher provide their machines with a generous cable length which is typically about 5 metres long. You should check the cable length for your chosen model to make sure that it provides a decent cleaning range. It’s also worth investing in an outdoor extension lead to reach areas that are further out or when you need to clean bigger vehicles.
How Do I Turn On Electric Pressure Washer?
For starters, you should connect your garden hose to the pressure washer and ensure that it’s securely fastened.
Connect one end of the high-pressure hose to the main unit and then attach the other end to the spray lance.
Proceed with turning on the water tap.
Squeeze the lance’s trigger to remove any remnants of water or air from the machine.
Switch on the pressure washer to commence cleaning. Easy peasy!
That concludes our pressure washer buying guide for 2021. Are you considering buying a pressure washer or do you already own one? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to hear from you.
Affiliate Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and to bring you content free of charge. In order to do this, please note that when you click links and purchase items, in most cases I receive referral commissions. Eventually, I may earn enough to buy a beer or two 🙂
If your driveway, patio or beloved car is looking like it could do with some TLC we can help you source the best pressure washer for car cleaning in 2021. These nifty appliances turbocharge your cleaning capabilities for tough jobs such as removing dried mud from car tires or restoring the stonework in your driveway. Once you’ve used a good pressure washer you’ll wonder why it wasn’t at the top of your shopping list.
The leading brands such as Sun Joe, Karcher or GreenWorks all offer high- performance washers that deliver powerful pressure as strong as 2030 PSI to spray through stubborn dirt. If you’ve never used a pressure washer you’ll be amazed at just how easy it is to operate.
Pressure washers are available in different sizes and pressure configurations, however, modern units are a lot more compact compared to older versions and deliver the equivalent amount of power if not more.
Top rated pressure washers make light work of what would normally be a mammoth task if it were to be done manually. These handy units are very versatile and extend beyond just car cleaning. You can remove layers of grime that has accumulated over the years in a few seconds.
Before you rush to buy a pressure washer you need to be aware of their capabilities and to know the important performance features to look out for, after all, this is an appliance that you’ll use regularly throughout the year for various jobs, therefore, you want to make sure that you’re getting the best pressure washer for the money.
One important fact to note is that not all pressure washers come with the same accessories and attachments. Some models will come with rotary brushes or special surface cleaners and other models will offer the option to buy the accessories separately but might be priced cheaper because of this.
So without further delay, let’s take a look at the leading high-performance pressure washers for cars, driveways and patios. With one of these machines, you can confidently eliminate difficult dirt without breaking a sweat.
#1. Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer
At the top of our list is the Sun Joe SPX3000. This unassuming pressure washer is packed with plenty of resourceful features that have earned it favourable ratings from satisfied owners across the globe. This unit demonstrates that you don’t have to spend huge sums of money to enjoy the benefits of a high-performance pressure washer. The unit comes with the CSA seal of approval to give you the peace of mind that you are working with a safe appliance.
Below is a quick summary of the great features from the Sun Joe SPX3000 pressure washer waiting to be utilised-
Lightweight machine weighing just 31 LBS.
It is equipped with dual detergent tanks so that you can clean for longer without interruptions.
The power cord is nice and long and extends to 35-feet.
The Sun Joe SPX3000 offers powerful water pressure of up to 2,030 PSI.
The extension wand conveniently extends up to 34 inches for further reach.
The high-pressure hose measures 20-feet for a good range of motion.
It houses a powerful 1800 watt motor with 14.5 amps
Sun Joe has gone even further to provide you with a pressure washer that is not susceptible to pump issues. To improve the life of the pump the SPX3000 is fitted with a smart feature dubbed TSS which is an acronym for Total Stop System. The TSS trigger takes on the duty of shutting off the pump automatically as soon as you disengage the trigger. This feature alone will vastly extend the life of the pump.
Sun Joe is renowned for their expansive range of pressure washers, however, the SPX3000 is the top pick from the bunch. It scores the best marks for performance, a great feature set and value for money.
Where can I buy the Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer?
When it comes to sourcing a reliable, powerful pressure washer, you’ll struggle to find a better brand than Karcher. Yes! This is German engineering for pressure washers. Karcher makes it their mission to manufacture the best possible piece of equipment regardless of the challenge that they decide to take on. Their gear used to cost an arm and a leg but thankfully, we’ve started to see prices drop.
The K5 model is among the leading pressure washers on offer from the brand. It comes with some of the best specs within its range and quickly outranks its rivals. The K5 doesn’t come cheap, however, you can be assured that you are getting your hands onto a reliable workhorse that will deliver time and again.
So what do you get with the Karcher K5 Premium?
It comes with a powerful 2,000 PSI of dirt-eliminating water pressure.
This lightweight unit weighs a mere 32 LBS.
A powerful motor that delivers 1800 watts and 14.5 amps.
The motor is equipped with a water cooling feature.
There is a detergent tank integrated into the machine.
Karcher has designed the K5 with a clever water cooled mechanism that actively lowers the temperature of the induction motor and lengthens the life of machine considerably. Karcher states that this one feature alone will ensure that their pressure washer lasts 5 times longer than its rivals. How smart is that? If your budget allows, I’d highly recommend purchasing the Karcher K5 for its high-quality performance and readily available accessories. There are plenty!
Where can I buy the Karcher K5 Premium Electric Pressure Washer?
Next up is the AR Blue Clean AR383 pressure washer. Though the brand is not as recognised as say, Karcher, you won’t be disappointed by the long list of handy features found on this unit to help you with tackling the dirt on a neglected car, patio or pavement. Use the following features to eliminate dirt with the power of pressurised water:
The AR383 is a lightweight gadget to use all-year round. It weighs just 27 Ibs.
The water pressure is 1,900 PSI, therefore, allowing you to carry out challenging tasks with ease.
The power cord provides a convenient length of 30 feet to give you a good cleaning range.
The motor provides 1800 watts and 14.5 amps of power so that you never need to feel like the machine is underperforming.
The machine is equipped with 2 wands to help target a variety of jobs in addition to car cleaning.
If you’re looking for a similar performance to the Karcher but your budget is limited then the AR Blue Clean AR383 is the perfect alternative. This unit provides a performance standard that is virtually the same as the Karcher K5 premium. It’s lightweight and actually weighs less than the K5.
To sum up the AR Blue Clean AR383, you are getting an affordable pressure washer for the car and utilizing the powerful water pressure to get the most bang for your buck. If you’re considering buying the AR383 pressure washer, it’s a no-brainer, therefore, go ahead and buy one.
Where can I buy the AR Blue Clean AR383 Pressure Washer?
For those of you looking for a high-performance pressure washer on a very small budget, you should consider the GreenWorks CPW1501. This unit is a budget-friendly option, however, it is equipped with a strong set of features. You’ll find rotating nozzles that attach to the machine quickly and can be swivelled between 25 – 45 degrees to attack dirt from different angles.
You’ll find a detergent bottle conveniently situated beneath the trigger handle. This feature provides the benefit of applying detergent at a manageable pressure without slowing down the task at hand. The GreenWorks CPW1501 comes with the following features:
Water pressure is delivered at 1,500 PSI.
It is one of lightest pressure washers currently available, weighing just 17.5 Ils.
The power cord measures 35 feet to help reach all the way around the car easily.
The universal motor measures 13 amps so that you are never short on power.
The GreenWorks CPW1501 pressure washer is a good value purchase and it demonstrates that you don’t need to spend huge heaps of money for a high-performance pressure washing appliance. This is the best affordable pressure washer for cars, patios and paving.
Where can I buy the GreenWorks GPW1501 Pressure Washer?
From the onset, you can already see that the Karcher K1700 pressure washer wants to set itself apart from the competition with it’s unique “Caddy” design that cleverly positions the appliance onto 2 wheels. The nifty K1700 will follow you on its wheels without getting in the way.
If you intend to use your pressure washer frequently, this is one of the best designs for regular jobs and allows you to use it without the need to constantly lift it from one place to the other.
The Karcher K1700 comes with a load of benefits. I’ve listed some of them below:
The K1700 comprises of a unique on/off foot switch that controls the 1.2 GPM pressure washer.
This model comes with 3 nozzles to tackle difficult dirt and make light work of a variety of challenging tasks.
Water pressure is delivered at a powerful 1,700 PSI.
The high-pressure hose measures 20 ft.
Karcher ensures that all their appliances come with a great set of accessories and the Karcher K1700 is no exception and when you combine this with a big set of features, this unit is a powerful choice. It comes with an all-purpose nozzle that rotates 15 degrees.
There’s also a detergent nozzle that can be switched between high and low settings for difficult or delicate surfaces. The Karcher K1700 is equipped with plenty of features for any outdoor job around the house. You can take advantage of a high-performance pressure washer that follows you around on 2 wheels.
Where can I buy the Karcher K1700 Electric Power Pressure Washer?
Pressure Washer Buyers Guide: Remove Tough Dirt with these Handy Tips
Most people will rely on their garden hose to clean their car, however, a standard hose has its limit even with the help of a nozzle or sprayer. If you need to remove tough mud or maybe dead insects stuck throughout your car’s bodywork then a regular hose isn’t going to be enough.
Getting rid of stubborn dirt is time-consuming with regular cleaning methods. It’s much easier and quicker to use a high-performance pressure washer to clean your car. The market is flooded with plenty of options from different brands and it can often be difficult to decide the best choice for your requirements.
Most people that have never owned a pressure washer will buy their appliance without doing much research. Our buying guide will walk you through the important features to look out for and factors to take into account prior to making your purchase.
Pressure Washers For Car Cleaning: What You Need To Know.
There are several pressure washers on the market and it’s important to know what you’re getting so that you can make the most of your new washer. Similar to other cleaning appliances, pressure washers are not made equal. Some units are designed for specific tasks such as cleaning concrete or removing stains from fencing and are often powered by gas.
Electric pressure washers are suitable for car cleaning because of the safe PSI level, therefore, the water pressure will not strip the paint work from your car.
A PSI of 2,000 or less is safe for cleaning cars, vans, trucks and other types of vehicles. At this level of water pressure, you can also clean the outdoor decking, the patio, pavement, windows and other areas. If you are not intending to use your pressure washer for car cleaning then you can choose a unit with a stronger PSI water pressure.
Does a Pressure Washer Use a Lot of Water?
The capacity of water used by pressure washers varies between each model and if your water runs on a meter or if you want to be kinder to the environment then you should carefully consider the amount of water the machine needs. Typically, a car pressure washer will spray between 6.5 to 9 gallons of water every minute.
Before deciding which pressure washer to buy, ensure that you check the gallons per minute or GPM rating in the product specifications. This measurement will demystify the guesswork around water usage. Naturally, a higher number equates to a higher rate of water from the nozzle, therefore, providing a thorough rinse. Cleaning is much quicker with a high GPM rating but water efficiency suffers as a result.
Pressure Washer Foam Cannons
For the best possible car cleaning results, you should consider a foam cannon which effectively suds up your ride prior to rinsing. The foam produced by the cannon cuts through difficult dirt such as mud and dead bugs, the thick detergent is quick to act and even quicker to apply to your car’s bodywork.
A cannon will start to produce foam when the water pressure reaches between 55 to 90 PSI. It delivers plenty of foam at a rate of approximately 5 gallons per minute. The best thing about a foam cannon is that most of them can be simply attached straight to the pressure washer hose as you would with a nozzle, other types of cannons might require a special adapter to connect.
It goes without saying that a foam cannon is a vital accessory for car cleaning and it improves the end result considerably. The image below gives you an idea of what your car will look like when the foam is applied using a pressure washer cannon.
What is the difference between a Gas & Electric Car Pressure Washer?
In this post, I’ve specifically focused on electric pressure washers for car cleaning. Why is that? An electric pressure washer uses a high amp electric motor to provide adequate water pressure of 2000 PSI which is perfect for car cleaning.
Gas driven pressure washers are a lot more powerful and produce a higher PSI. At the lower end, these appliances deliver more than 2000 PSI. The best gas pressure washers deliver a staggering 7000 PSI and are normally used commercially. Most of us wouldn’t need such a powerful machine for domestic use and definitely not for car cleaning.
The higher PSI on gas-powered pressure washers means that they use up more water than electric pressure washers.
Electric pressure washers are far more convenient to use and simply require turning on a switch or pressing a button to bring it to life. With a gas version, you’ll need to tug a rope to get the motor going and don’t forget that you’ll need to purchase the correct fuel compatible with your machine. A gas-powered pressure washer requires more maintenance, it will need regular servicing and for the filter to be replaced to run optimally.
Electric pressure washers do not weigh as much gas versions, however, you need to find a close-by power source to plug them in, unlike a gas appliance which is more mobile.
Overall, the best pressure washer for car cleaning is an electric version because you don’t need the extra power provided by the gas model. In fact, the additional power could damage your car’s paintwork! Most of us want the convenience of turning a switch and getting on with the job rather than sourcing fuel before we can even get started.
What about Pressure Washer Nozzles?
The pressure washer nozzle is another vital accessory needed to operate the unit, without one, your pressure washer simply wouldn’t work. The best nozzle can be adapted to different cleaning scenarios and let you adjust the range of the spray.
A narrow spray of water is the most powerful but should be used with caution on paintwork, it’s best to use a narrow spray on areas such as the car tyre and rims where the most dirt can be found. Be sure to change the spray to a wider width for paintwork.
Using Your Car Pressure Washer Effectively
We all clean our car using different techniques, however, when we add a pressure washer to the mix, it is much easier and quicker compared to a bucket and soap. You should also follow the best practices described below to get the most out of your pressure washer cleaning session:
Pre-cleaning: It’s always a good idea to start by rinsing off your car from top to bottom before using any washing accessories i.e. sponges or mitts. Be extra careful when working around the lights.
Soap: Add soap to your car pressure washer and proceed with spraying it across the vehicle using the widest possible setting to ensure that you get a comprehensive application. Leave the soap to work into the dirt for about 5 minutes.
Washing away dirt: Use a sponge or mitt to wipe the soap off the bodywork, then proceed with spraying the vehicle with a higher pressure setting.
When the above stages are complete, you can begin washing the car with your chosen car shampoo and use the pressure washer to spray this on. The appliance would have already thoroughly removed stubborn dirt, therefore, you won’t have the trouble of getting rid of swirl marks later on using polish.
Pressure Washer Pumps & Motors
The power output of the motor on an electric pressure washer is measured by amps and watts. The most common types of electric motors are universal, induction and water cooled motors. I’ve listed them in order of price, audible levels and performance.
If you can’t decide which electric pressure washer to buy and they are around a similar cost, then you should check which motor they are equipped with. If for example there is an option for a water cooled motor or a universal motor then you should go for the lata.
The type of electric motor you choose is important, however, the pump is just as important as it determines how much power it can tolerate from the motor. You will find 3 types of pumps- wobble, axial and triplex. Again, these have been listed in order of longevity and their ability to tolerate big levels of power.
What else should I look for in a Pressure Washer?
It’s fair to say that electric pressure washers are a must-have outdoor cleaning accessory that help to get rid of exterior dirt quicker than any other method . Before deciding which model to buy be sure to check that the power cord is long enough to reach a power outlet with a safe distance between the water and electrics.
The length of the hose will also affect performance. You want one that strikes a good balance i.e. if it’s longer than normal then it could become an obstruction. If the hose is too short it could snag and constantly topple the machine.
Conclusion
The convenience of a pressure washer is only fully appreciated from the moment you start using it. It can be used for a variety of cleaning scenarios and the models come with a lengthy warranty, interchangeable accessories for various tasks and adjustable settings. A pressure washer is an appliance that you will use frequently, therefore, it’s worth spending a bit extra for a quality machine that will stand the test of time.
The best models are manufactured by brands such as Karcher (German engineering!) or Sun Joe. You might pay a bit more for these models but your investment will actually save you money in the long run- there is hardly any type of maintenance required and the rich set of features means that you can cover a variety of tasks with just this one machine.
Are you considering buying a pressure washer to wash your car and for outdoor cleaning or do you already own one? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to hear from you.
Clearing up a messy yard is no easy feat. Our 2021 buyers guide comes with lots of advice to find the best leaf blowers for all yards sizes to speed up what normally be an arduous task. It goes without saying that getting rid of leaves from pathways and the lawn is easier and quicker with a leaf blower and if you really want to crank up the efficiency then you should consider a model that picks up and mulches leaves.
Safely Using a Leaf Blower Vacuum
It’s important to follow safe practices when using your new leaf blower. I’ve included a few handy tips to ensure safe usage of your garden appliance and eliminate any unnecessary risks.
Staying Safe
Firstly you should ensure that you purchase your leaf blower from a trusted source. Follow the links in this article to access our shortlist of recommended leaf blower vacuum mulchers.
One of the first things to do is to register your new unit with the manufacturer so that it is guaranteed in case of a fault or if a repair is required. Registering the leaf blower will also make it easier for the manufacturer to get in touch with you if the product needs recalling.
Always inspect the cord and plug for signs of burns and check that they are not too hot. Seek the help of an electrician if the fuse keeps blowing or the circuit-breaker keeps short-circuiting.
Your socket should have RCD (residual current device) protection installed to protect you from electric shock and it minimises the danger of an electric fire. If your sockets are not fitted with RCD protection then you need to look into installing one. This will provide all-round safety and safeguard you and your home from harmful electric faults.
How to Use Your Leaf Blower Safely
Before turning on your leaf blower vacuum make sure you remove any obstructions such as stones and debris.
Avoid using the leaf blower on wet and windy days. These conditions will make the task harder and longer than it needs to be. Choose a dry day for an easier life.
Make sure that loose clothes are tucked in and remove any jewellery that might get in the way.
I would recommend wearing goggles to protect your eyes. Invest in a pair of garden gloves, appropriate legwear and a pair of earmuffs to protect your ears from the loud motor noise.
Be aware of your surroundings when operating the leaf blower. Make sure that there’s nobody else within a 15-metre radius of the machine during use.
Never attempt to use the appliance if you are standing on a ladder or roof.
If you hear any abnormal sounds or smell burning then you turn off the machine straight away and get in touch with the manufacturer for advice and assistance.
Make sure that the leaf blower is disconnected from the mains when the task is complete. I would also recommend unplugging it when switching attachments or cleaning the unit.
Now that we’ve covered the safety aspects of using a leaf blower vacuum mulcher we need to decide the best type to use. These handy garden appliances are a must-have during the autumn months. If you don’t already own one or you need to replace your old one then you’ve come to the right place.
I want you to get the most out of your new appliance and to do that you need to know the best type of machine to buy for your backyard. Our leaf blower buying guide will walk you through everything that you need to know to make an informed decision.
What Type of Leaf Blowers are Available?
Leaf blowers are usually tailored for specific jobs and yard sizes, however, they all perform with the same purpose. Each unit can blow away leaves without issues but you might want one that runs at a lower noise level, therefore, you may choose a specific machine over the other.
If you want a machine for larger spaces then you might want to buy a robust commercial leaf blower. If you want to recycle dead leaves for compost then you definitely want to buy a leaf blower with mulching capabilities.
Your machine will come with different accessories for a variety of jobs. You can also get them in different configurations such as a backpack, handheld or walk behind machine.
Handheld Leaf Blower
A handheld leaf blower provides the best movement of freedom to manoeuvre all areas of your backyard. They are lightweight and ideal for smaller lawns and porches. In addition to leaves, they can tackle dust, sawdust and small twigs but might struggle with bigger pieces of debris.
Backpack Leaf Blower
Backpack leaf blowers are equipped with longer running times and provide a higher amount of power over handheld units. They are suitable for larger areas such as fields or garage spaces. They can deal with wet leaves, pebbles and small sticks.
Walk Behind Leaf Blower
A walk behind leaf blower is the most robust machine available. you can use it for mammoth tasks and it comes with plenty of power to get tasks done quickly. These machines are mainly used by professionals to remove heavier debris including cardboard, paper or a huge pile of wet leaves.
What Should You Take into Account When Buying a Leaf Blower?
How Loud is the Leaf Blower?
It’s important to know the exact capabilities of your new leaf blower before buying it. How powerful is the appliance and how much energy does it consume during use? Is it a corded, gas, battery-powered leaf blower? One aspect that is often overlooked is the machine’s noise.
The noise levels of a leaf blower will depend on the type of unit you choose to buy. You don’t want to upset the neighbours with a loud garden appliance if you can help it. A leaf blower has a variety of uses such as removing debris from the gutter, eliminating dust from the garage, clearing the lawn and mulching leaves (depending on the model). This is clearly an appliance that will be used often, therefore, it should be as quiet as possible.
The typical noise emitted by a leaf blower 50 feet away is between 64 to 78 decibels. At the user’s ear, the noise ranges from about 95 to 115 decibels. The latest models aim to reduce the noise to a decibel level lower than 85 dB. Generally, electric models are much quieter than gas models and the battery model falls somewhere in between. Bigger motors will also produce more noise.
Always check the specific quiet hours for your area to see what times you are permitted to use loud appliances. Be considerate to the neighbours and try not to use your leaf blower too early in the day when people are still in bed.
How Much Power Do You Need?
How much power do you need from your leaf blower? There are 2 features you need to consider when deciding on the level of power required from your machine and these are: Miles Per Hour (MPH) and Cubic Feet Per Minute (CFM). Both should be high and within close range of each other.
Don’t make the mistake of just looking at a high MPH value only. It’s true that more MPH equates to air travelling faster from the barrel, however, the blower needs to work harder to move a bigger pile of leaves.
Faster speed doesn’t necessarily mean better leaf blowing capabilities, it just means that your machine blows air out quicker. What you need to consider, together with the MPH, is the Cubic Feet Per Minute (CFM). This is just as important as the airspeed and here’s why…
CFM measures the volume of air that flows from the barrel per minute. This number will determine the distance that the fan can move leaves from one area to another. However, moving a huge amount of leaves from one area is pointless if it takes a long time to carry out the task.
What you want is a leaf blower with a good balance between the CFM and MPH to get the tasks completed effectively and in less time. Plenty of airspeed with inadequate coverage will result in longer periods of moving leaves around.
We’ve established that leaf blowers all operate in a similar manner, however, the type that you end up buying will depend on the space that you need it to work.
Smaller Tasks
If you intend to use your leaf blower in a small backyard or to clear leaves from the patio then a handheld unit is ideal for the job. The benefits of a handheld machine are easier storage and lightweight to carry around. A handheld unit is not as powerful as other model types, therefore, it wouldn’t be suitable for larger jobs.
Medium to Larger Tasks
Bigger backyards require a robust machine and for this task, you want a backpack blower. With this model, you get longer running times and a higher rate of power but still get similar movement benefits as handheld models. Backpack leaf blowers come with comfortable straps to ease the burden of carrying around the machine for extended periods. You can power through difficult tasks in very little time.
Commercial Tasks
The most powerful unit out of the bunch is the walk behind blower. This appliance comes on wheels and is perfect for industrial scale tasks such as clearing parks, farmland or yards that are larger than 1 acre. A wheeled blower is strong enough to blow away big pieces of debris, therefore, it’s important that the area you are working on doesn’t have animals or people close by.
A wheeled leaf blow is not as mobile as a handheld or backpack blower, however, it is designed with a good level of movement and flexibility. The wheels ensure that the unit can be manoeuvred easily and quickly between areas. These appliances are often used in parks to get rid of a large number of leaves.
It’s important to know beforehand what type of fuel is best for your cleaning requirements. Leaf blowers will either be gas, electric or battery-powered. Each fuel type has its benefits and drawbacks, therefore, you might fare better with one over the other.
Battery-Powered leaf Blowers
If this is the first time you are buying a leaf blower then a battery powered appliance is one of the best choices to get. If you have a brand preference then it would be useful to get a similar brand so that you can share existing batteries between machines.
If you are a newbie to a leaf blower and have never worked with a gas or oil model, it can be daunting which is why a battery-powered appliance is best. It comes with the convenience of simply attaching the battery to the appliance and switching it on. These models are low-maintenance too, the motor requires very little upkeep and adds to the appeal of the battery-powered leaf blower.
Pros:
Battery leaf blowers are easy to set up and very user-friendly.
Perfect for newbies.
They can often utilise existing batteries that you already own.
Cons:
Running times can be restrictive depending on the model that you buy.
Electric Leaf Blowers
If you aren’t already invested in a particular brand and like the idea of unlimited power then you can’t go wrong with an electric leaf blower. These corded units are a happy medium between battery and gas because you are provided with more power than battery units but you don’t need to worry about handling oil or gas.
The only setback with an electric leaf blower is the power cord. Though you get more power, the cord can limit the range that you are working on and it often gets tangled up and snagged. If your yard is average-sized then an electric model is ideal, however, it wouldn’t be practical for larger yards.
Pros:
Unlimited power and it eliminates the hassle of flat batteries.
Electric models are lightweight and easy to handle for long sessions.
Cons:
The cord can restrict the range and also get tangled up.
Gas Leaf Blowers
A gas leaf blower can be daunting if you’ve never used one, however, if you are willing to learn how to work with one or if you’ve owned one previously, this appliance can provide one of the most thorough results in your yard. Gas blowers provide the highest amount of power over other models though they need a lot more maintenance and they’re also louder than alternative models.
These type of blowers need the right amount of mixture of gas and oil to be poured into the tank before use. The oil is needed to lubricate the motor during and after use. The amount can vary based on the size of the gas tank, however, the ratio of gas to oil will always be the same.
These days, you can buy a premixed fuel which helps to eliminate the risk of pouring the wrong mixture into your tank. It’s possible to buy a gas blower that runs purely on gas thus simplifying the process of adding fuel to the tank. Simply pour in the gas, close the tank and you’re up and running.
Pros:
They provide the longest-running time offered by a cordless leaf blower.
Gas blowers are more powerful than alternative models.
Cons:
Gas leaf blowers are louder than battery or electric blowers.
Require a lot more maintenance than other models.
Gas prices could increase depending where you live.
Leaf blowers come with various accessories for different tasks. Generally, you are provided with disposable or reusable collection bags, gutter kits, blower head tips, extensions and vacuum kits. Your prized leaf blower can be used throughout the year to keep the yard looking its best.
If you like the thought of reusing leaves and turning it into fertiliser for your plants and garden then it would make sense to buy a leaf blower that can mulch as well. Turning leaves into mulch is kind to the environment and it helps you to save money on the cost of buying expensive fertiliser.
If you experience bad weather, your leaf blower can be particularly handy with helping to blow away the snow from the driveway and walkways rather than battling to remove it with a shovel. The leaf blower will also prevent slippery ice from forming.
Maintaining Your Leaf Blower
Your leaf blower will be designed to handle different jobs around the yard and garden but eventually, you will pack it away in the colder months. There are a few simple steps to follow to ensure that the unit is stored safely to prolong its shelf life.
If the leaf blower is stored in the garage, you should switch on the unit at least once every 4 weeks in a ventilated area to keep the motor and carburettor running optimally. If you intend to store the leaf blower in a shed or an area that isn’t easily accessible then you should follow the steps below for long-term storage:
Add a Fuel Stabilizer– This applies to the leftover fuel in the tanks of gas and oil leaf blowers. Simply add the stabilizer to the fuel and stir it in then empty the tank. The stabilizer lengthens the life of the fuel and makes it suitable for long-term storage.
Run it– Before emptying the tank, make sure that you run the leaf blower for about 2-3 minutes. This process lets the stabilised fuel flow through the motor and applies the solution to its interior. After this, empty out as much fuel as you can.
Switch it on again– Once the fuel has been emptied, run the blower again and keep it running until it runs out of the leftover fuel. This ensures that the machine is totally empty.
Conclusion
There are few factors to consider when buying a new leaf blower and we hope that this article has answered all of the questions that you might have been unsure about. The best leaf blowers reviews and buyers guide for 2021 doesn’t end there, be sure to follow the links provided in this post to browse through our shortlist of the leading recommendations. You will find a selection of models from household brands such as Toro, Black & Decker, and Worx.
Are you considering buying a leaf blower vacuum mulcher or do you already own one? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to hear from you.
Dirty pond stressing you out? This pond vacuum cleaners buyers guide for 2021 has all the information needed to speed up the removal of muck and algae to get your lagoon crystal clear in record time! The best thing is that you don’t need to disturb the fish whilst you clean their aquatic sanctuary.
It’s amazing to think that manufacturers have modified the conventional vacuum cleaner so that it can clean out the watering hole in your backyard. A pond vacuum is a handy appliance that saves you the hassle of draining out your entire lagoon just so that you clean it. You can remove sludge, algae, leaves and dirt whilst the body of water remains where it is.
Pond vacuums are versatile machines capable of cleaning small and large ponds, fish ponds and green ponds. The leading appliances are powerful enough to cope with most situations and will remove built-up debris effectively and thoroughly.
Just like a normal vacuum, a pond cleaner works in a similar manner and is very easy to operate. You should ensure that you buy a pond vacuum with the right tools for the job- most come with additional nozzles, extension cables, collection bags and transparent tubes for easier visibility.
What Should You Consider When Buying a Pond Vacuum Cleaner?
Installing a pond in your backyard is a great idea and adds to the garden’s appeal, however, owning a water feature means that you need to maintain it so that it remains looking at its best. It should be cleaned regularly to stop debris and muck from accumulating and contaminating the water.
The cost of hiring a professional cleaner to purify your pond is not cheap especially when it’s a task that needs to be done often. The best affordable solution is to get your own pond vacuum that can be used when duty calls.
Before buying a pond vacuum you should consider the below factors to ensure that you get the most out of your new appliance:
Don’t waste your time looking at models from cheaper inferior brands. Stick to brands that specialise in pond cleaning units such as Oase or Matala.
Pond cleaning is better with a lightweight and portable machine to ensure that the task is carried quicker and with less effort. Make sure that you check the weight of the machine prior to purchase. Ideally, you want an appliance that weighs around 25 pounds or less. Always go for a machine with a longer cord to improve the cleaning range.
Don’t underestimate the importance of a nozzle. There are various types available including specially adapted nozzles that can get in between rocks and suck up hidden algae. Depending on the brand and model you go for, you should be supplied with a kit of accessories to deal with muck and sludge effectively.
How long are the handle and tube? Remember that you need them to be long enough to reach corners and the other end of the pond without you physically needing to get into the water.
What type of collection bag does the machine come with? You get the choice of a disposable or reusable bag or both. Disposable bags are quicker to use as you simply need to detach and throw them away whereas reusable bags need to be cleaned out when the job is done to stop dead leaves from rotting inside the bag.
Check the product description to ensure that your chosen model is the right one for your pond or pool. Some come with a 2-chamber design to improve suction power, other models are equipped with a dual pump system to run for extended times without pausing for a break.
How big is the collection bag? You want the biggest possible sized bag that doesn’t add bulk or compromise performance. A bigger bag reduces the frequency of dirt disposal.
Alway get a machine that doesn’t require a complicated setup. The recommended pond vacuums in our shortlist are all easy to get started and are a joy to use.
Using and Maintaining Your New Pond Vacuum
Owning or installing a pond or pool enhances the appeal of your home and often increases your estate’s worth. A water feature is a fun addition that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Regular maintenance of your beloved watering hole is vital in keeping it healthy and looking its best.
Investing in a pond vacuum cleaner will help you eliminate dirt such as dead leaves, sludge and muck that has settled at the bottom of the pond. It will remove hidden bacteria that can’t normally be spotted. The frequency of cleaning depends on the size of the pond- some users clean their watering holes monthly or weekly. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended maintenance intervals and best practices.
Below is a quick summary of handy suggestions of how to use your pond vacuum optimally-
Depending on the model you buy, you should be able to open the handle ring to widen the range of suction. If you’d prefer a higher rate of focused suction close the ring.
Always position the tank of the machine at a higher level than the hose to improve drainage. Ideally, you want the drainage hose to be positioned lower than the base of the tank.
For the best suction, you should always use a smaller cleaning head for better performance.
The drainage hose is equipped with a flapper valve which should be inspected often to ensure that it doesn’t get clogged up and any debris stuck in the valve should be removed.
Proper maintenance and care of your new pond cleaner will extend its life considerably. A well-maintained machine will always deliver the best possible results. Ensure that all parts are individually checked, cleaned and completely dry once the task is complete. Ideally, you want a dedicated space to store your pond cleaner after each use to ensure that all its parts are kept in one place and it’s easier to access.
Even the best-kept ponds and pools are prone to muck and sludge accumulating down below. Cleaning them often will ensure that dirt and algae stay at bay. As mentioned earlier, cleaning your pond with a pond vacuum is a cost-effective solution to keep the water looking crystal clear but before you do this, you should learn how to get the most out of your machine during use. Here are a few tips:
Securely connect the cleaner head to the rigid tube. Usually, you will need to screw the accessory in place but that will depend on the model that you buy. Check the user guide for proper fitting instructions.
Similar to a conventional vacuum, the vacuum hose needs to be securely fitted to the vacuum head. It’s easy to do and will stop the hose from getting tangled during use.
To clean effectively, the cleaner head needs to be completely submerged whilst the handle stays out the water. There’s no need for you to get into the pond, you can remain completely dry whilst using the appliance.
The extension pole should not be submerged into the water.
Water will rush through the hose whilst the cleaner head simultaneously travels down to the base of the pond.
If you use the pond cleaner to clean your swimming pool, make sure that the filter is switched off whilst you operate the machine.
The vacuum hose needs to be connected to the skimmer-basket adapter and positioned above it. Form a seal at the end of the hose by placing your hand over it and then attach the vacuum port at the end of the hose. The hose must remain submerged to ensure that it’s full of water.
After this stage, you can switch on your pool filter again.
A good cleaning technique is by starting along the sides of the pond and working your way towards the centre. Move the handle slowly so that the tube and cleaner head have enough time to pick up muck effectively.
When the job is complete, switch off the filter and detach the adapter of the skimmer basket, then take out the tube, hose and cleaner from the pond and leave them to dry out.
Inspect the skimmer basket for debris and clean it out carefully.
How do you eliminate algae effective from your pond?
Algae is unsightly and it grows in virtually every pond. Here are a few handy tips to keep it at bay-
Using your new pond vacuum to physically suck up algae is a great space to start.
The best way to deal with algae effectively is to use a two-fold approach. First, purify the water with natural chemicals that are kind to the fish and plant life residing in the pond then remove the remaining algae with the pond vacuum.
Place fresh plants into the pond to provide more oxygen. You should also remove dead plants that could promote the growth of algae.
If the algae are growing rapidly you should test the quality of the water to establish the cause.
Is it SAFE to use a Pond Vacuum in a pond with fish?
It is totally safe to use your new pond vacuum alongside the school of fish in your pond. The best technique to clean effectively is to use your pond vacuum combined with your pond pump for the best results. Mucky water will soon be crystal clear and free from debris and dirt.
Be cautious when using your appliance near fish just in case one of them gets vacuumed into the hose. Make sure that the discharge hose is close by so that the fish can safely swim back out into the pond.
What is muck and how do you get rid of it properly?
Pond muck is an unpleasant smell at the base of the pond. It smells like gone-off eggs and is an indicator that the pond water is deprived of oxygen.
What can you do to remove muck? Your pond vacuum is well equipped to address this issue. It pumps fresh oxygen into the pond by suck up dirty water filtering it and pouring the clean oxygenated water back into the pool.
Removing muck from the pond is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a clean pond and it also helps to keep it smelling fresh. The absence of muck means that the water in your lagoon is healthy.
Conclusion
We’ve reached the end of our pond vacuum cleaners buyers guide for 2021. We’ve demonstrated the importance of regularly cleaning ponds and removing persistent algae and debris. Pond vacuum cleaners are your best weapon in the fight against unwanted debris in pond water.
A pond vacuum is a great investment and will actually save you money the long term. Why hire an expensive professional when you can do the job yourself?
Use the links provided in this article to access our shortlist of the best pond vacuum cleaners currently available to buy today. Our leading recommendations get the job of pond cleaning done effectively. The best bit about pond vacuums is that they are long-lasting and affordable, therefore, a popular choice among the community of pond and pool owners.
Are you considering buying a pond vacuum cleaner or do you already own one? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to hear from you.
Affiliate Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and to bring you content free of charge. In order to do this, please note that when you click links and purchase items, in most cases I receive referral commissions. Eventually, I may earn enough to buy a beer or two 🙂
It’s hard work to keep your garden and lawn looking at their best which is why we’ve summarized 5 of the best commercial leaf blower vacuums to tackle dead leaves and debris in 2021. These lightweight garden gadgets simplify the mammoth task of getting rid of dead leaves that have taken refuge in your backyard throughout autumn.
Leaf blowers come in all shapes and sizes and are powered by electric, battery or gas. They are one of the best tools to maintain your backyard, garden and even the garage. Use one to blow out or vacuum debris from the areas mentioned above and it is much quicker to use instead of the time-consuming task of raking leaves.
In this review, I’ll walk you through the leading commercial leaf blower vacuums currently available. We’ll delve into the features and conveniences of each model as well as things you should be aware of before parting with your cash. I’ll then provide you with a handy buyers guide at the end of the review.
Best Commercial Leaf Blower Vacuums for 2020- Product Reviews
1. Toro 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Blower Vacuum
At the top of our list is the Toro 51621 UltraPlus, which is a high-performance leaf blower that delivers plenty of power and adaptability for most garden maintenance requirements. The model comes with variable speeds, thus, offering the flexibility to increase or lower the speed and the power to take care of both demanding and delicate tasks.
One of the best features you will find on the Toro 51621 is the tube that attaches to the machine to focus its power on specific areas, therefore, allowing you to shift or vacuum wet leaves easier. The range of power at your disposal is impressive and it goes all the way up to 250 miles per hour. With such power at your disposal, you can tackle any large or small jobs without worrying that your machine can’t cope.
Pros
It achieves some of the best speeds that are found on a leaf blower. Enjoy up to 250 MPH speeds to deal with heavier damp debris such as soggy leaves.
The Toro UltraPlus is a highly capable machine that combines blowing, vacuuming and mulching abilities to give consistent performance throughout.
Leaf blowers that come with just one speed are limited to a few jobs. The Toro UltraPlus comes with the capability to vary the speed allowing you to control the power required for each job. This improves performance and provides the flexibility to work on tough tasks as well as delicate ones.
You get plenty of accessories. The Toro leaf blower includes a vacuum tube, a storage hook, zip bag, a time-saving oscillating tube and a shred-all shred ring.
You’ll find a quick-release latch that lets you quickly adapt the machine from a leaf blower to a vacuum mulcher.
One thing that you will find highly useful is the blower tube that comes with the Toro UltraPlus. The tube concentrates the power to the exact location it’s needed, therefore, making it much easier to blow away or suck up soggier leaves that are heavier than dry debris.
Cons
A slight drawback of the Toro UltraPlus is the power cord which isn’t as long as the cords found on rival units. You’ll need to invest in an outdoor extension cord if you don’t already have one.
The blower tube is not the easiest accessory to use because of its long length.
Where can I buy the Toro 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Blower Vacuum?
2. Black & Decker BV6000 High-Performance Blower Vacuum
The Black & Decker BV6000 is a remarkable versatile garden appliance that can switch between a blower, vacuum or mulcher. With this unit, you get 2 interchangeable speed settings allowing you to change the power between 180 mph or 250 mph to tackle a variety of jobs.
Switching the power settings is a doddle and this nifty Black & Decker blower comes with a disposable bag feature to speed things up even more. It has one of the best mulching ratios that grinds 16 bags of debris into just 1 small bag. Clever huh?
Pros
Similar to our leading recommendation, The BV6000 produces speeds of up to 250 mph and provides the capability to switch the speed to a lower speed to cater for different garden maintenance situations. Simply lower the speed down to 180 miles per hour for smaller jobs or ramp it up to 250 mph when extra power is required for bigger tasks.
A time-saving function of the Black and Decker BV6000 is the disposable leaf bag. This is the perfect solution if you don’t have the time to clean out a reusable bag. All you need to do is chuck the bag into the trash when you’re finished. Simple.
The Black and Decker machine handles each of its functions with a consistent level of power thanks to the 12 amp motor which ensures that the blower, mulcher and vacuum perform with vigour.
The mulcher function found on the BV6000 appliance is a sophisticated piece of kit that reduces a huge load of mulch into a fraction of its original size. It grinds 16 bags into just 1 bag to be exact. This is one of the best mulching ratios you will find on a mulcher and is hugely convenient for large jobs as you can reduce a huge pile of debris to a very small size. This saves time and money i.e. less time spent changing collection bags and less money spent on replacing them.
The machine is very user-friendly and is simple to switch between blower, mulcher and vacuum features.
Cons
The Black and Decker BV6000 blows better than it vacuums. The vacuuming feature could do with delivering a bit more power especially when picking up wet leaves.
This model is heavier than some of the alternatives, therefore, you should ensure that the strap is fastened securely and comfortably to avoid straining your shoulders and back.
Where can I buy the Black & Decker BV6000 High-Performance Blower/Vacuum?
3. Worx WG507 12 Amp 2-Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum
The Worx WG507 is a dependable and powerful 2-speed electric leaf blower appliance. You can also use it for vacuuming and mulching leaves.
Similar to the BV6000 the Worx machine can switch between 2 different blowing speeds, however, the speeds are slightly slower at either 160 mph or 220 mph. The benefit of the WG507 is that it’s not as heavy as the competition. It’s incredibly easy to manoeuvre and use for extended periods.
Pros
The Worx WG507 proves to be powerful and versatile maintenance tool equipped for blowing, vacuuming and mulching. The 12-amp motor provides the option to select 2 different speeds to cater for various tasks around the garden and tackle both dry and wet debris without causing you to break a sweat.
I like the handy feature that lets you change the machine from a blower to vacuum and vice versa in a matter of seconds. It simply requires you to press a button and the appliance does the rest.
You can easily change the speed from 160 miles per hour to 220 miles per hour and switch from one speed to the other whenever you move onto a different section of the yard.
With the Worx WG507, you get the advantage of using a lightweight unit that is portable to move around with, therefore, making tasks easier to handle.
This model also comes with a user-friendly handle that is made for comfort especially when operating the appliance for extended periods. It reduces the usual fatigue that comes with long use.
Another convenient aspect of the Worx WG507 is that it doesn’t require complicated assembling. You can take it out of the box, clip it into place by hand and head straight to the garden. It couldn’t be any easier.
You also get a disposable bag system that is easy to use and it conveniently reduces leaves and debris for quick disposal once the job is complete.
Cons
The Worx WG507 has lower speeds than our top 2 recommendations, however, it still delivers adequate performance.
A drawback of the unit is that it doesn’t come with specific accesories for vacuuming, blowing or mulching. You get a single universal nozzle for all jobs.
Where can I buy the Worx WG507 12 Amp 2-Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum?
4. BLACK+DECKER BV5600 High Performance Blower/Vac
The Black and Decker BV5600 comes with a good set of features to help address demanding maintenance scenarios. The machine is equipped with mulching, vacuuming and blowing capabilities and is a handy appliance for avid gardeners.
Similar to its sibling, the BV5600 is designed to utilise a grinding mechanism that whittles down mulch from 16 bags to just 1. You can toggle the speed between 2 different settings and can enjoy speeds of up to 250 miles per hour. This is the perfect tool to clear and get rid of big piles of leaves and debris.
Pros
This leaf blower delivers a powerful blast of up to 250 miles per hour to move heavier wet leaves in less time.
Similar to its sibling, the Black and Decker BV5600 has a mulching feature that is incredibly effective. It comes with one of the highest mulching ratios of 16:1, therefore, it can reduce 16 large bags of leaves into a single bag thanks to the robust grinding system found inside this machine.
The Black & Decker BV5600 seamlessly converts between a blower, vacuum and mulcher to provide the ultimate level of adaptability to handle different-sized debris and a variety of cleaning scenarios.
You’ll also appreciate the quietness of this Black and Decker leaf blower. It operates at a lower noise level than most of its rivals which means fewer disruptions to those around you especially the neighbours. Leaf blowers are generally very loud machines but with the BV5600 you get high-performance at a pleasantly lower noise level.
This model is equipped with disposable bags to get rid of waste much easier and saves on time that would be spent cleaning out a reusable bag after each use.
With the BV5600 you can effortlessly switch between each of its features. You can convert from a blower to vacuum or mulcher within a matter of seconds by simply flipping a switch and getting on with the job.
Cons
The vacuum tube is susceptible to clogging up, however, this depends on the volume and the type of leaves you are picking up i.e. are they dry or damp leaves?
Where can I buy the BLACK+DECKER BV5600 High-Performance Blower/Vac?
Last but not least is the Toro 51619 Ultra blower vacuum which is equally as strong and adaptable as the competition. This multi-purpose garden appliance can transform from a blower to vacuum or mulcher. It comes with favourable reviews from plenty of satisfied owners and for good reason.
The Toro 51619 blower is a portable workhorse that blows away the most challenging types of debris thanks to the powerful motor that achieves airspeeds of up to 250 miles per hour. It is supplied with separate accessories for each task and when you’re done, everything can be neatly stored away inside the convenient storage bag.
Pros
The Toro 51619 is a dependable machine that utilises a metal impeller to whittle down debris into the tiniest possible size. It scores top marks for durability because the impeller is made from metal instead of plastic, therefore, extending the machine’s shelf life considerably longer than its rivals.
Similar to high-performing leaf blowers, the Toro 51619 can reach up to 250 miles per hour of airspeed.
This model is provided with a great range of accessories. Within the package, you will find a zip bag to store the machine and its bits, a cord storage hook, a vacuum tube, a blower tube, a power insert and a concentrator nozzle.
This nifty gadget is not only powerful, but it’s also one of the easiest units to change between functions. You can transform from blower to vacuum to mulcher in very little time.
Cons
The power cord is not as long as alternative machines and this unit is not supplied with an extension cord. This isn’t really a problem if you’ve got a small backyard/ garden or if you already own an outdoor extension cord otherwise you might have to purchase one separately.
Where can I buy the Toro 51619 Ultra Blower/Vacuum?
Leaf Blower Vacuum Buying Guide- Finding The Best Commercial Leaf Vacuum For Your Needs
When searching for a commercial-grade leaf blower, that vacuums and mulches, there a few features you need to consider to ensure that you get the best possible appliance to meet all of your maintenance requirements.
For starters, at the very least you need to assess the amount of power that the motor delivers. Although you might not use the unit’s highest power setting all the time, you want to know that it’s readily available when you are faced with a mammoth task (a huge pile of wet leaves!).
A powerful machine might cost a bit more but it will save you time in the long run. Bear in mind that not all machines come with an equal amount of peak power for the vacuum and blower features. This could make the difference between a high-performing machine and an average one.
When looking for the ideal leaf blower you want to make sure that it’s capable of switching between different power settings. Some users assume that a single power level is enough, however, they might not factor in different situations that might need less power such as when clearing leaves from areas with delicate flowers that could get destroyed by powerful airspeeds. Switching between higher and lower speeds is incredibly useful.
Another consideration that is often overlooked when searching for the best commercial leaf blower is the variety of accessories that are supplied with a chosen model. You want to get a machine that is supplied with a generous set of attachments such as separate tubes for the blower and vacuum, nozzles, impellers, storage kits and so on. A good range of accessories ensures that the job gets done easier and quicker.
What are the Strong Points of Leaf Blower Vacuum Mulcher?
If you’ve never used a leaf blower vacuum mulcher you will notice that from the onset, this appliance vastly reduces the amount of time it takes to get rid of dead leaves and debris cluttering your garden.
If you are tired of manually raking leaves into garbage bags, you’ll be surprised at how quick you can do the same job with a leaf blower vacuum in less time. Without one of these handy appliances, you are probably using up a lot more time to clear up your lawn and garden. Save yourself the time and hassle!
What are the Most Important Features to Consider When Buying a Leaf Blower Vacuum?
I’ve summarised a list of the most important features you should look out for when searching for the perfect leaf blowing appliance. You can refer to this list when looking at the product descriptions of potential machines:
Always check the peak airspeed or horsepower. Higher speeds equate to higher performance.
Can the machine change between different airspeeds when using the blower feature? I’d always recommend getting a unit capable of this.
Does the machine come with time-saving disposable bags or the option to chose between a reusable or disposable bag?
Can you easily convert the machine from blower to vacuum and vice versa? The leading leaf blowers can do this by simply pressing a single button.
How heavy is the leaf blower? If you plan on using it for extended periods of time you should ensure that it comes with a shoulder strap to avoid straining your back and arms.
As mentioned previously, you want to buy a leaf blower that comes with a good set of accessories. The more the better.
Using Your New Leaf Blower Vacuum
It goes without saying that a leaf blower shifts dead leaves away from undesired areas, however, you can get so much more from these appliances if you choose wisely. Ideally, you want it to vacuum leaves up and the best case scenario is a unit that mulches the waste as well.
The advantage of a leaf blower with mulching abilities is that the waste takes up less space and it can be recycled into nutritious mulch, therefore saving you the cost of buying fertilizer.
Cleaning Range
If you are considering a corded leaf blower vacuum mulcher then you should check the length of the cord. Some cords are shorter depending on the machine you decide to buy, however, you can always buy an outdoor extension cable if required.
There’s the option to buy a battery or gas-powered leaf blower for the ultimate movement freedom and convenience.
Conclusion
You’ve reached the end of our buyer’s guide of the best commercial leaf blower vacuums for 2021. By now you should have a good idea of the type of appliance to go for.
The Toro 51621 proves to be the top dog as it comes with everything required from a commercial-grade unit and it’s an affordable option when you take into account its rich set of features. It delivers plenty of power for large tasks but can handle small jobs thanks to the adjustable power settings.
Are you considering buying a leaf blower vacuum mulcher from our list or do you already own one? Please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to hear from you.
