How To Choose The Best Leaf Blower- Our 2024 Guide

Introduction to Choosing the Best Leaf Blower

Discover how to choose the best leaf blower with our comprehensive guide… Explore the benefits, versatility, and latest trends to make an informed choice. Let’s unlock your leaf-blowing potential.

Finding the ideal leaf blower can transform your outdoor maintenance, making it quicker and more efficient. Whether you’re tackling autumn leaves or general yard debris, the right leaf blower can make a significant difference. This guide delves into various aspects to consider, ensuring you make an informed decision suited to your specific needs.

How-To-Choose-The-Best-Leaf-Blower

What to Look for When Choosing a Leaf Blower

1. Power Source and Output

  • Consider whether you prefer electric, battery-powered, or gas leaf blowers.
  • Assess the power output relevant to your yard size and type of debris.

2. Design and Ergonomics

  • Look for a design that’s comfortable to hold and use.
  • Balance and weight distribution are crucial for extended use.

Benefits of the Product: Why a Leaf Blower is a Must-Have

Leaf blowers are more than just tools for clearing leaves; they offer a range of benefits that make them indispensable for yard maintenance. Understanding these advantages helps you appreciate the value a leaf blower brings to your outdoor chores.

Makita-XBU02PT1-18V-X2-36V-Blower-Kit-2

Time Efficiency

  • Speeds Up Yard Work: A leaf blower significantly reduces the time spent on clearing leaves compared to raking.
  • Instant Results: It offers quick cleanup, especially useful for large areas.

Ease of Use

  • User-Friendly: Modern leaf blowers are designed for ease of operation.
  • Less Physically Demanding: Reduces the strain on your body, particularly beneficial for those with physical limitations.

Versatility in Cleaning

  • Multi-Functional: Beyond leaves, they can clear grass clippings, hedge trimmings, and other garden debris.
  • Adaptable for Various Surfaces: Works well on different surfaces like lawns, driveways, and patios.

Enhanced Cleanliness

  • Thorough Cleaning: They can remove debris from hard-to-reach areas where rakes can’t easily go.
  • Leaves a Pristine Look: The yard looks neater and well-maintained.

Cost-Effective

  • Long-Term Investment: With proper maintenance, leaf blowers can last for years, providing good value for the initial cost.
  • Saves on Gardening Costs: Reduces the need for professional yard services.

A-man-using-a-leaf-blower-in-a-garden

Environmental Impact

  • Reduced Carbon Footprint: Electric and battery-powered models offer an eco-friendly alternative to raking or gas-powered blowers.
  • Energy Efficiency: Battery-powered models are becoming more efficient, making them a greener choice.

Health and Safety

  • Reduces Allergens: By quickly removing leaves, it helps in reducing mold and allergens in your yard.
  • Safety in Use: Advanced models come with safety features to prevent accidents.

Understanding these benefits shows why a leaf blower is a valuable investment for your home. It not only enhances the efficiency and ease of yard maintenance but also contributes positively to your home’s appearance and environment.


Versatility of the Product: The Multifaceted Uses of a Leaf Blower

Leaf blowers are versatile tools, designed for more than just blowing leaves. Their adaptability makes them valuable for a variety of tasks around the home and garden. Let’s explore the diverse applications of a leaf blower:

Garden and Yard Maintenance

  • Leaf and Debris Removal: Primarily used for gathering and removing leaves, they are equally effective in clearing grass clippings, pine needles, and other garden debris.
  • After-Mowing Cleanup: Ideal for blowing away grass cuttings from walkways and patios post-mowing.
  • Garden Beds: Useful in cleaning around delicate flower beds and shrubs without disturbing the plants.

Seasonal and Weather-Related Tasks

  • Light Snow Removal: Capable of blowing away light snow from sidewalks, driveways, and vehicles, saving time and effort compared to shoveling.
  • Drying Surfaces: Useful in drying off wet surfaces like decks and patios after washing or rain.

General Outdoor Cleaning

  • Gutter Clearing: Some models can be equipped with attachments to help clear gutters.
  • Dust and Dirt Removal: Effective in blowing away dust and dirt from garage floors, driveways, and walkways.
  • Outdoor Equipment Cleaning: Handy for cleaning outdoor tools and machinery.

How-To-Choose-The-Best-Leaf-Blower

Beyond the Yard

  • Inflating/Deflating Objects: Can be used to quickly inflate or deflate large items like inflatable pools or mattresses with the right attachments.
  • Vehicle Care: Useful for removing water droplets and loose dirt from vehicles after washing.

Creative and Unconventional Uses

  • Photography and Film: Used in photography or film sets to create wind effects.
  • Sporting Events: Can be used to dry off sports fields or courts after rain.

This range of applications demonstrates the leaf blower’s ability to go beyond basic leaf removal, offering solutions for various cleaning and maintenance tasks. Its versatility makes it an indispensable tool in any homeowner’s arsenal, capable of adapting to different needs and situations.

Environmental Considerations: Choosing an Eco-Friendly Leaf Blower

When selecting a leaf blower, environmental impact is a crucial aspect to consider. Understanding the ecological implications helps you make a responsible choice that aligns with your environmental values.

Emissions and Pollution

  • Gas vs. Electric Models: Gas-powered blowers emit fumes and greenhouse gases, contributing to air pollution. Electric models, both corded and battery-powered, offer a cleaner alternative.
  • Emission Standards Compliance: If opting for a gas model, ensure it meets current emission standards to minimize its environmental footprint.

Energy Efficiency

  • Battery Efficiency: Modern battery-powered leaf blowers are becoming more efficient, providing longer run times and reducing the need for frequent recharging.
  • Electric Efficiency: Corded electric models consume electricity only when in use, making them energy-efficient and cost-effective.

Noise Pollution

  • Sound Emissions: Electric models generally operate at lower decibel levels than gas-powered ones, reducing noise pollution.
  • Community Regulations: Be aware of local noise regulations, as some areas have restrictions on the use of loud garden equipment.

Sustainable Practices

  • Recyclable Batteries: Choose models with recyclable batteries to reduce waste.
  • Longevity and Durability: Opt for a durable model that requires fewer replacements over time, reducing waste and consumption.
Hitachi-RB24EAP-Gas-Powered-Handheld-Leaf-Blower

Eco-Friendly Disposal of Garden Waste

  • Composting: Use your leaf blower to gather leaves and organic debris for composting, turning waste into valuable garden mulch.
  • Mulching Capabilities: Some leaf blowers come with mulching functions, allowing you to directly convert leaves into mulch.

By considering these environmental factors, you can select a leaf blower that not only meets your gardening needs but also minimizes your ecological footprint. Choosing a model that balances efficiency, emissions, and sustainability contributes positively to environmental conservation.


Noise Levels: Understanding and Managing Leaf Blower Sound

Noise level is a significant consideration when choosing a leaf blower. Understanding and managing the sound emitted by these tools can enhance user comfort and compliance with local regulations.

Assessing Decibel Ratings

  • Decibel (dB) Scale: Leaf blowers typically range from about 60 dB to over 100 dB. Understanding the dB rating helps gauge how loud a unit will be.
  • Electric vs. Gas Models: Generally, electric models are quieter than gas-powered ones. Battery-operated blowers tend to produce the least noise.

Impact on Users and Community

  • User Comfort: Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can be uncomfortable or even harmful to the user. Quieter models enhance user comfort.
  • Community Considerations: High noise levels can be disruptive to neighbors and communities. Some areas have noise ordinances that restrict the use of loud garden tools.

Choosing a Quieter Model

  • Research and Compare: Look for models with lower decibel ratings. Manufacturers often provide this information in product specifications.
  • Technology Advances: Some newer models are designed specifically to reduce noise, utilizing quieter motors and noise-dampening technology.

Noise Reduction Accessories

  • Ear Protection: Use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to protect your hearing, especially when using higher-decibel models.
  • Sound-Reducing Attachments: Some leaf blowers have attachments or design features that can help minimize noise output.

Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-3

Time of Use

  • Respect Quiet Hours: Be mindful of the time of day when using the blower. Avoid early mornings or late evenings when noise is more likely to disturb neighbors.
  • Adhere to Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local noise ordinances to ensure compliant use of your leaf blower.

By considering the noise levels of different leaf blowers and taking steps to manage the sound, you can select a tool that is both effective for your yard maintenance needs and considerate of your hearing health and community peace.


Brand Reputation and Reviews: Navigating the Market for the Best Choice

When selecting a leaf blower, considering the brand reputation and customer reviews is essential. These factors provide insight into the product’s performance and reliability, informed by actual user experiences and brand history.

Evaluating Brand Reputation

  • Industry Standing: Established brands often have a proven track record of quality and reliability. Researching a brand’s history can give you a sense of their commitment to quality.
  • Innovation and Technology: Look for brands known for innovation and incorporating new technologies into their products, which can offer improved efficiency and user experience.

Understanding Customer Reviews

  • Real User Experiences: Customer reviews provide firsthand accounts of a product’s performance, durability, and ease of use.
  • Common Themes: Look for recurring comments in reviews – both positive and negative. Consistent issues or praises can be telling about the product’s actual performance.

Balancing Professional and Consumer Opinions

  • Expert Reviews: Alongside customer reviews, seek out professional reviews or ratings from trusted websites or publications specializing in gardening tools.
  • Comparative Analysis: Professional reviews often provide comparative analysis with other models, which can help in making an informed decision.

Navigating Mixed Reviews

  • Contextualizing Criticisms: Assess whether negative reviews are due to product flaws or individual preferences and specific needs.
  • Warranty and Customer Service: Consider how the company handles customer complaints and warranty claims. Brands with responsive customer service and fair warranty policies are often more reliable.

The Role of Online Forums and Communities

  • Peer Insights: Gardening forums and online communities can offer valuable insights and recommendations based on personal experiences with various brands and models.
  • Latest Trends and Feedback: Such platforms can also provide information on the latest products and user feedback that might not yet be widely available in formal reviews.

By thoroughly researching brand reputations and scrutinizing customer and expert reviews, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of which leaf blower might best suit your needs. This approach ensures a more informed and confident purchase decision, aligning with both performance expectations and user experiences.


Budget-Friendly Options: Finding an Affordable Leaf Blower

Selecting a budget-friendly leaf blower doesn’t mean compromising on quality. By understanding what to look for, you can find a cost-effective option that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

A-woman-using-a-leaf-blower-in-a-backyard

Identifying Affordable Models

  • Price Range: Establish your budget beforehand. Leaf blowers can range from under $50 to several hundred dollars.
  • Basic Models: Lower-priced models usually have fewer features but can still be effective for small to medium-sized yards.

Evaluating Cost vs. Performance

  • Essential Features: Determine which features are essential for your needs and which you can do without. Sometimes, basic models offer all the necessary functionality.
  • Long-Term Efficiency: Consider energy consumption (for electric models) or fuel efficiency (for gas models) as these impact long-term costs.

Seeking Sales and Discounts

  • Seasonal Sales: Take advantage of off-season sales, Black Friday, or Cyber Monday deals.
  • Refurbished Models: Refurbished or gently used blowers can be more affordable and often still come with a warranty.

Comparing Product Lifespan and Maintenance Costs

  • Durability: An affordable blower that is well-built can save money in the long run on replacements and repairs.
  • Maintenance Costs: Factor in the cost of maintenance, especially for gas models which may require more upkeep.

Utilizing Customer Reviews

  • Budget Models Reviews: Read reviews specifically focusing on more affordable models to understand their pros and cons.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Reviews can help gauge whether a lower-priced model delivers good value for its cost.

Warranty and After-Sales Service

  • Warranty Period: A longer warranty period can be a sign of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
  • After-Sales Service: Good customer service can offset some of the drawbacks of a cheaper model.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find a leaf blower that fits your budget while still providing the functionality and reliability you need. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality, and there are many cost-effective options available that provide excellent value.


Maintenance: Keeping Your Leaf Blower in Top Condition

Proper maintenance of your leaf blower not only extends its lifespan but also ensures it operates efficiently and safely. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your leaf blower:

Regular Cleaning

  • Post-Use Cleaning: After each use, remove debris and dirt from the blower’s exterior and air intake areas.
  • Internal Cleaning: For gas models, periodically check and clean the air filter and spark arrestor.

Fuel Management for Gas Models

  • Fuel Quality: Use the correct fuel and oil mix (if required) for your gas blower. Stale fuel can damage the engine.
  • Fuel Replacement: Regularly replace the fuel as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Battery Care for Electric Models

  • Battery Maintenance: For battery-powered blowers, ensure batteries are charged and stored properly. Avoid extreme temperatures to prolong battery life.
  • Battery Replacement: Over time, batteries may need replacing to maintain optimal performance.
Berscob-Cordless-Leaf-Blower-20V-420CFM-high-speed

Checking and Replacing Parts

  • Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect for any signs of wear or damage, especially to the blower’s bag, if it has one, and the nozzle.
  • Part Replacement: Replace any parts that are worn out or damaged, such as filters, spark plugs (in gas models), and batteries.

Storage

  • Proper Storage: Store your leaf blower in a dry, clean place. Hanging it off the ground can prevent moisture damage.
  • Winter Storage: For gas blowers, drain the fuel before storing it for the winter.

Professional Servicing

  • Regular Check-Ups: Consider having your leaf blower professionally serviced annually, especially if it’s a gas model, to ensure it’s in good working condition.
  • Troubleshooting: If you encounter any issues, consult the user manual or a professional. Trying to fix problems beyond your expertise can lead to further damage.

Lubrication

  • Moving Parts: Keep moving parts lubricated as per the manufacturer’s instructions, especially in gas models.

Warranty Information: Understanding Your Leaf Blower’s Coverage

When purchasing a leaf blower, the warranty is an important factor to consider. It provides assurance against defects and malfunctions. Here’s what you need to know about leaf blower warranties:

Types of Warranties

  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: Most leaf blowers come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which typically covers defects in materials and workmanship.
  • Extended Warranty: Some retailers offer extended warranties for an additional cost, covering repairs and replacements beyond the manufacturer’s warranty period.

Warranty Length

  • Varies by Brand and Model: Warranty periods can range from one year to several years. Higher-end models often have longer warranties.
  • Check the Fine Print: Understand what the warranty covers and for how long.

Understanding Coverage

  • Scope of Warranty: Some warranties might cover only parts, not labor, or may have limitations on coverage for certain components.
  • Exclusions: Be aware of what is not covered. Common exclusions include damage from misuse, lack of maintenance, or normal wear and tear.
WORX-WG591-Turbine-56V-Cordless-Battery-Powered-Leaf-Blower

Registration and Claims

  • Warranty Registration: Some manufacturers require you to register the product to activate the warranty.
  • Claim Process: Familiarize yourself with the process for filing a warranty claim, including where to send or take the product for repair.

Receipts and Documentation

  • Keep Your Receipt: Proof of purchase is often required to validate the warranty.
  • Document Repairs: Keep records of any repairs or service done under warranty.

Transferability

  • Non-Transferable Warranties: Some warranties are non-transferable and only apply to the original purchaser.
  • Transferable Warranties: If you plan to sell the blower, a transferable warranty can be an added selling point.

Importance in Decision-Making

  • Factor in Warranty: A longer or more comprehensive warranty might justify a higher price, as it can save repair costs in the future.
  • Reliability Indicator: Brands offering longer warranties often do so because they have confidence in the durability of their products.

Common Cleaning Challenges and Solutions with Leaf Blowers

Using a leaf blower may seem straightforward, but certain challenges can arise during cleaning. Here’s how to tackle some common issues effectively:

Dealing with Wet Leaves

  • Challenge: Wet leaves are heavier and harder to move than dry leaves.
  • Solution: Use the highest power setting. If your blower has a nozzle attachment, use it to concentrate airflow for more force.

Uneven Surfaces

  • Challenge: Blowing leaves on uneven surfaces or in grass can be difficult.
  • Solution: Hold the blower at a shallow angle and use a sweeping motion. Multiple passes might be necessary.

Dust and Dirt Kickback

  • Challenge: Blowing leaves can stir up dust and dirt.
  • Solution: Use a lower power setting in dusty areas. For leaf blowers with variable speed, start low and gradually increase as needed.

Removing Leaves from Flower Beds

  • Challenge: Avoiding damage to plants while removing leaves.
  • Solution: Use a lower setting or stand further back. Some blowers have a “vacuum” mode which can be gentler for this task.

Large Piles of Leaves

  • Challenge: Managing and disposing of large piles of leaves.
  • Solution: Use your blower to consolidate leaves into manageable piles. Consider a blower with a mulching function to reduce volume.

Noise Management

  • Challenge: Using a leaf blower without causing excessive noise.
  • Solution: Opt for quieter, electric models if possible. Be mindful of the time of day you use the blower, avoiding early morning or late evening.

Blowing Debris in Public Areas

  • Challenge: Cleaning leaves in areas near pedestrians or traffic without causing inconvenience.
  • Solution: Be aware of your surroundings. Stop blowing when people or vehicles pass by to avoid blowing debris onto them.

Cornered Leaves

  • Challenge: Leaves stuck in corners or against walls.
  • Solution: Use a directed nozzle attachment to focus airflow, or use a rake for these tight spots.

By understanding and applying these solutions, you can enhance the effectiveness of your leaf blower and tackle a variety of cleaning challenges, ensuring your yard or garden remains neat and tidy


Tips for Maximizing Cleaning Efficiency with Leaf Blowers

Efficiently using a leaf blower not only saves time but also ensures a cleaner and more thorough job. Here are some tips to maximize the efficiency of your leaf blowing tasks:

Strategic Planning

  • Plan Your Route: Before starting, plan your route. Decide where you want the leaves to end up, like a compost pile or the edge of the yard.
  • Work With the Wind: Use the wind direction to your advantage. Blowing against the wind is counterproductive.

Correct Technique

  • Sweeping Motion: Use a side-to-side sweeping motion for a wider coverage area.
  • Adjust Angle: For stubborn debris, adjust the angle of the blower for more effective removal.

Variable Speeds

  • Use Different Speeds: Use higher speeds for open areas and lower speeds around delicate plants or flower beds.
  • Controlled Blowing: Gradually increase the speed as needed to avoid scattering debris too broadly.

Mulching Function

  • Utilize Mulching: If your blower has a mulching function, use it to reduce leaf volume, making disposal easier.

Blowing in Stages

  • Work in Sections: Tackle large areas in sections rather than trying to do it all at once.
  • Final Pass: Do a final pass to gather any missed leaves or debris.

Proper Maintenance

  • Keep It Clean: Regularly clean the blower’s intake and filters for optimal performance.
  • Check Fuel or Battery: Ensure there’s enough fuel or battery charge before starting your work.

Safety First

  • Wear Protective Gear: Use ear protection, safety goggles, and gloves.
  • Be Mindful of Surroundings: Be aware of people, pets, and property around you.

Time Management

  • Avoid Peak Hours: Don’t use the leaf blower early in the morning or late at night to avoid disturbing neighbors.
  • Short Bursts: Use short bursts of power rather than continuous operation to save energy and reduce noise.

Complementing with Other Tools

  • Combine with Raking: For tight spots and corners, complement the leaf blower with traditional raking.
  • Use a Leaf Scoop: After blowing leaves into piles, use a leaf scoop or rake for easy collection.

By following these tips, you can use your leaf blower more efficiently, reducing the time and effort spent on yard cleanup while achieving better results. A combination of the right technique, proper planning, and safety considerations will enhance your leaf-blowing experience.


Frequency of Use: Matching Leaf Blower to Usage Patterns

The frequency with which you plan to use a leaf blower is a key factor in selecting the right model. Different usage patterns require different features and capabilities for optimal performance and longevity.

Black-&-Decker-BV6000-Leaf-Blower

Occasional Use

  • Light-Duty Models: If your leaf blower use is sporadic, perhaps only during fall or for small cleanups, a light-duty electric or battery-powered model might be ideal.
  • Compact and Easy Storage: For infrequent use, prioritize a blower that is easy to store and maintain.

Regular Residential Use

  • Mid-Range Models: Regular users, such as homeowners with medium-sized gardens, should consider mid-range models that balance power, efficiency, and ergonomics.
  • Comfort Features: Look for features like vibration reduction and adjustable speed settings, which make regular use more comfortable.

Frequent or Professional Use

  • Heavy-Duty Blowers: For frequent or professional use, especially in larger areas or for commercial landscaping, heavy-duty, gas-powered blowers are more suitable due to their power and durability.
  • Backpack Models: Consider backpack models for ease of use and reduced fatigue during prolonged operation.

Seasonal Intensity

  • Peak Season Considerations: If you live in an area with heavy leaf fall, even occasional users might need a more powerful blower during peak seasons.
  • All-Season Versatility: In areas with year-round gardening tasks, choose a blower that can adapt to different seasons and types of debris.

Energy Consumption

  • Electric Models for Regular Use: If you use your blower regularly but want to keep energy consumption low, electric models, particularly corded ones, offer a good balance.
  • Fuel Efficiency in Gas Models: For gas blowers, consider models with good fuel efficiency to reduce running costs and environmental impact.
A-leaf-blower-in-use-actively-blowing-leaves-in-a-backyard-setting

Maintenance Needs

  • More Frequent Maintenance for Regular Use: Regularly used blowers require more consistent maintenance, such as filter cleaning/replacement, battery care, or engine checks for gas models.
  • Long-Term Care for Occasional Use: Ensure proper long-term storage and maintenance, such as battery charging and fuel stabilization, for blowers used less frequently.

Understanding how often and in what capacity you’ll use a leaf blower will guide you to a model that not only meets your current needs but also offers longevity and reliability. This consideration ensures you invest in a tool that is both functional and economical for your specific gardening and yard maintenance scenarios.


Storage Tips: Properly Storing Your Leaf Blower

Proper storage of your leaf blower is essential for maintaining its condition and ensuring its longevity. Here are some storage tips to keep your leaf blower in optimal shape:

Clean Before Storing

  • Remove Debris: Always clean off leaves, dirt, and debris before storing your leaf blower. This prevents clogging and corrosion.
  • Air Filter Maintenance: For gas models, clean the air filter and check for any needed maintenance.

Correct Fuel Storage for Gas Models

  • Fuel Stabilizer: If you’re not going to use the gas blower for a while, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from deteriorating.
  • Empty the Tank: Alternatively, run the blower until the fuel tank is empty before storing it for extended periods.

Battery Care for Electric Models

  • Battery Charging: Fully charge the batteries of your electric blower before storage. This helps maintain battery health.
  • Remove Batteries: If the blower will not be used for a long time, remove the batteries to prevent any potential damage.

Dry and Cool Storage Area

  • Moisture-Free Environment: Store your leaf blower in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
  • Temperature Considerations: Avoid extremely cold or hot temperatures, as they can damage both gas and electric blowers.

Hang or Shelf Storage

  • Space-Saving: Hanging your leaf blower on a wall or placing it on a shelf can save floor space and keep it out of harm’s way.
  • Accessibility: Store the blower in an easily accessible place for quick use.

Toro-51621-UltraPlus-Leaf-Blower-Vacuum-Storage

Covering the Blower

  • Use a Cover: If possible, cover your leaf blower with a cloth or a specially designed cover to protect it from dust.

Organizing Accessories

  • Keep Attachments Together: Store all attachments, such as nozzles and batteries, near the blower for easy access.

Long-Term Storage

  • Check Manufacturer’s Guide: Refer to your leaf blower’s manual for any specific long-term storage advice.
  • Periodic Checks: Even in storage, check your leaf blower periodically, especially if it’s stored for an extended period.

By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your leaf blower remains in good working condition, ready for use whenever you need it. Proper storage not only extends the life of the blower but also helps in maintaining its efficiency and reliability.


This comprehensive guide covers everything from environmental considerations to technological trends, helping you choose a leaf blower that’s not only efficient but also aligned with your personal and environmental values. Remember, the right tool can significantly enhance your yard maintenance experience.

Flowtron LE 900 Ultimate Mulcher Electric Leaf Shredder Review

Flowtron LE 900 Ultimate Mulcher Electric Leaf Shredder Review

It is a challenging job to dispose of these collected leaves, as more space and a lot of bags are needed to store them so it is advisable to use a Mulcher leaf if it comes to removing tons of shredded leaves and dirt from your garden/lawn. In the seasons when the trees throw their leaves, every gardener needs to keep his garden/lawn clean, neat, and good.

A Leaf Mulcher can probably make the task simpler by gathering the leaves, shredding them, and then transferring them to a fastened bag. The leaves will subsequently be packed and used as compost. People with so many trees don’t have to waste hours cleaning or collecting the leaves.

That being said, the use of Leaf Mulcher also has a range of benefits.

Benefits of Leaf Mulchers

benefits-of-leaf-mulchers

A leaf mulcher is actually designed to help house owners and gardeners, below are the factors that will make you buy a leaf mulcher after you read this post. 

Saves Time and Money

One of the greatest benefits of using a mulcher is to save time and money in the handling and disposal of the leaves. It just needs a turn to ‘vacuum’ and the mulcher gathers the shredded leaves in a unit. The Mulcher’s leaf bags provide the alternative of biodegradable sacks that can decompose the leaves.

Easily Generates Mulch

The Mulcher leaves also have a mulching feature, in order to enrich the development of flower beds and plants in gardens, by using the generated mulch. The mulches are high in nutrients and the proliferation of weeds is reduced with the use of mulching as fertilizers for plants. The gathered leaves will also be used to cover the base of the trees to preserve moisture.

A decent Leaf Mulcher would be able to consume even some debris and sticks. So when cleaning up the gardens with a vacuum mulcher the customer must not worry.

Convenient and Easy to Store

Electric Mulchers are much lighter and stronger compared to gas-powered ones. It’s convenient to store electric forms because they can be dismantled. Instructions for setup are usually given.

A mulcher comes with an adjustable speed option which allows the speed to differ according to the needs. The task can be accomplished quickly, as the mode is shifted to high-speed for wide areas.

Today we will review one of the best electric leaf mulcher shredders – Flowtron LE 900 Ultimate Mulcher Electric Leaf Shredder

See Where Flowtron LE 900 Ranks in Our List of The Best Electric Leaf Mulcher Shredders

About Flowtron LE 900 Ultimate Mulcher Electric Leaf Shredder

flow-tron-le-900-electric-leaf-shredder-mulcher

It might be time you start buying a leaf mulcher to clean some of the garden waste if you have a lot of trees in the yard. While one of these machines can be used to minimize the amount of waste it takes each autumn to take away the leaves, most users choose to use it to recycle certain waste from the yard and use it in their flower beds and garden.

Electric Leaf Shredder Flowtron LE-900 easily recycles waste from the yard and garden in mulches rich with nutrients. Once you have mulched it can either be eliminated or turn it into compost. 11 bags of leaves can be reduced to one on the coarse setting.

The Flowtron LE-900 weighs only 17 pounds and has handles that made it easier to drive it anywhere. Once positioned, either you can pluck it directly into a garbage bag or similar bin, or you can place your leaf bag on the provided elastic bungee cord.

The adjustable pressure grips allow for an easier loading position of the hopper at any angle. For portable storage, this hopper rotates 180 degrees.

Portable and Lightweight

The Electric Leaf Shredder Flowtron LE-900 is just 17 pounds in weight. A durable, high-density polyethylene funnel and box is featured in the Flowtron leaf mulcher. The legs are built of steel structure for long life and ease of repair. You should pair it into a bin or garbage can directly.

The integrated handles lead to a genuinely compact device. You can transfer it quickly anywhere in your leaves.

Mulching Ratio

flow-tron-le-900-electric-leaf-shredder-mulcher-mulch-ratio

This versatile electric blade shredder uses a two-step procedure that shreds the leave first then mulches it after. The Flowtron mulching machine with its patented build, powerful motor, and robust cutting lines easily shreds wet/dry leaves, grass, pine needles, and even paper as easily as you can load.

A wide range of shredding adjustments is provided with the Flowtron LE-900. You can choose between the coarse (8 to 1) to fine particles (30 to 1) using sliding control. Pine needles, grass, and thatch option may be used as well. 

However, in order to make use of the 30 to 1 setting, it would be important for your leaves to be dry and “clean.” You will use the 8 to 1 ratio most likely.

Electric-Powered

The Flowtron LE 900 comes with a standard 8 amp engine with thermal protection from overloads. If the Flowtron LE 900 is operating on a regular household current, a heavy 12-gauge extension cord is recommended.

The circuit breaker with the reset button is provided with an on/off switch for protection against overload.

Mulch Collection Versatility

In the various forms it can be established, the LE-900 is very versatile. It can be stood on the base of steel, sitting on a regular plastic trash can, or directly connected with the bungee strap to the leaf bag.

For smaller individuals, settling on top of the trash can make the device a little too large, but under the mulcher plastic tubs and even a small kiddie pool can be used to simplify and just as an effective collection.

String replacement is a simple task (only takes a few minutes) and the machine contains 36 additional strings, so be prepared for an occasional rouge stick that may be missing in your leaf stacks.

Recommended for You: Best Leaf Blower Vacuum Mulcher

Blade Quality

flow-tron-le-900-electric-leaf-shredder-mulcher-blades

The leaf mulcher Flowtron LE-900 has different plastic blades than other leaf mulchers. The blades can be quickly changed because there is less safety danger than metal blades. Naturally, plastic blades can’t be sharpened like metal blades and that’s why you end up having to replace them. Since the system can’t process twigs or trees, the plastic blades have a longer life than expected.

If you’re going to save the mulch for later use or have it cleaned up by the garbage people, the Leaf Mulcher Flowtron LE-900 is built to accommodate a big trash bag conveniently on its ground or simply rest over the large trash can.

You’re going to like this feature as you don’t have to clean up the mess when you are done. This machine also has a coarse to fine shredding adjustment, which helps to make your own garden mulch.

Product Specifications:

flow-tron-le-900-electric-leaf-shredder-mulcher
  • Product Weight: 17 lbs
  • Product Dimension: 19.5 x 19.5 x 23 inches
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Motor Amperage: 8 amps
  • Funnel Diameter: 21 inches
  • Control Lever to Adjust Shredding Size
  • Funnel Hopper: Polyethylene
  • Capacity: 1 bushel
  • Funnel Hopper: 21 inches
  • Built-in storage
  • Warranty: 1-year

Pros:

  • Convenient integrated carrying handles
  • Built-in storage, which holds replacement cutting lines, gloves, and safety glasses
  • Extra-wide 21 inches funnel with easy loading diameter
  • Pressure adjustable knobs let the hopper tilt to any angle
  • The unit will rotate 180 degrees for portable storage with special tilt adjustment
  • Full bushel efficiency
  • In place is an elastic leaf bag with a bungee cord.

Cons:

  • Some people feel the plastic is weak.
  • Users say that it is easier to bring it together if you have two people
  • Don’t melt sticks any amount
  • Can be used on garbage can directly

Tips to Know When Buying a Leaf Mulcher Shredder

If you’re a lawn care lover or want a low-key yard work solution, a leaf mulcher will help you maintain an attractive lawn. These devices will streamline your outdoor routine and help you maintain your turf in good condition. Learn what a leaf mulcher shredder is all about, and determine the right option for your needs.

Leaf mulchers are available in different models. Consider which of the following features will be more suitable for your yard while shopping.

Design

Mulchers may be devices that are freestanding or handheld machines. Others are drive tools like a mower, and some are vacuum mulchers for the leaf.

Collection Bag

Most mulchers come with their own leaf bag. The leaves have the ability to block dust, so they do not cover you in a cloud of ultra-fine leaf debris. It is necessary. Some mulchers can hold a bag, but you have to buy it separately.

Chopping Process

blade-quality-of-leaf-mulchers

Some leaf shredders are using metal or plastic scissors, others are cutting with ropes.

Power Source

Leaf mulchers may be corded, powered by gas or electricity. Electrical models won’t run out when you mulch, but it’s important to keep your outlet within the range. Units operating with gas or battery do not always provide as much fuel but offer free mobility.

Mulching Ratio

Usually, handheld versions give a mulching ratio of 11:1 to 16:1 depending on the model. Standalone versions are offered with better performance, higher ratios to mulch up to 30:1, and branch chipping.

You’d better use a higher mulching ratio if you find yourself doing a lot of mulching. However, a 16:1 mulching ratio is appropriate for your gardening requirements for most mid to large yards.

Final Verdict

The Flowtron LE-900 Leaf Shredder/Mulcher can be used easily and works well for reducing big piles of leaves into a fine mat. If you don’t sort the leaf piles you will go through several cutting strings. The working surface may get very dusty, but in general, the decision to create good, portable mulch for your garden or to reduce the footprint of fall cleanup is a good one.

By now, you should have a good idea of the Flowtron LE 900 Ultimate Mulcher Electric Leaf Shredder. After a thorough review we decided to give this product an 8.0/10 rating.

Recommended for You: Best Leaf Blower for Pine Needles

Worx WG430 Electric Mulcher Shredder Review | Mulching Made Easy

You know how hard it works to pick up and dispose of all these leaves each year – particularly in the autumn if you have big trees in the house! A leaf mulcher like the Worx WG430 is the best way to reduce your leaf volume every season and recycle the mulch you grow for use around your plants in your yard. 

This article is a Worx Leaf Mulcher Review that takes you through the pros and cons of this amazing device, to see if it is the right tool to meet your needs.

But before we dig into this review, let’s find out first what is an electric mulcher shredder and how it works.

What is an Electric Mulcher Shredder and How it Works?

electric-powered-leaf-mulcher-shredder

All leaf mulchers have one major task: shredding leaves. However, when you choose the kind of mulcher, several features are worth considering. The leaf mulchers have a range of power sources, such as electrical cable, a gas-engine, or a rechargeable battery, and provide spinning blades that slice dry leaves. Furthermore, although there are several leaf mulchers, others are stationary.

Electric Powered

The more powerfully corded mulchers fall under the category of the electric leaf mulcher, the faster the motors, the higher the amps, the more powerful the motor.

Corded models are much quieter than gas-powered models, and in a garage, there is no combustible gasoline to be combined or flammable gas. You will also not need to charge a battery with a corded leaf mulcher. 

Although you will be limited to an extension cord length, which is normally 100 feet long.  A portable corded mulcher weighs between 6 and 9 pounds and can be used easily without causing a tired arm or shoulder.

About Worx 13-Amp Leaf Mulcher Shredder

Today, we will be reviewing the Worx 13-Amp Leaf Mulcher/Shredder to give you everything you have to choose if this commodity is the right one. We will review the many features that Worx has to offer, including features, cleaning, and servicing, efficiency, assembly, and rivalry. So let’s begin before the pile of leaves gets bigger!

The Mulcher and Shredder WORX WG430 have been built to pick up all the piles of fallen leaves and reduce them to 1/11 of their original size. It makes a perfect pavement to be used in gardens or flower beds.

See Where Worx WG430 Ranks in Our List Of The Best Electric Leaf Mulcher Shredders

Summary of Features

  • Strong 13-amp engine with an effective shredding of 8500 RPMs
  • Assembly is relatively easy and doesn’t require tools
  • Environmentally friendly, not using petrol
  • Individual parts nest close while not in use for fast storage
  • Use the crushed leaves for your garden as a mulch
  • Reduces 11 bags of leaves to a single bag
  • The engine uses clean-air cooling systems
  • You don’t need to buy blades! The cutting line is used to shred leaves instead of steel blades
  • 24 added lines and a ring for better filling are also provided with the mulcher.
  • 3-year warranty

Power

worx-electric-leaf-mulcher-mulching-ratio

The mulcher has a powerful engine with 13 amps that generate a top speed of 8500 rpm controlled by an enormous start switch. The clean-air engine refrigeration system filters waste during motor-time control.

A standard string cutting line is used with a 13-inch diameter cutting method. Without any need for tools, the trimmer line may be removed. The WG430 is rated up to 53 gallons per minute for mulching. With the provided bag holder you can feed the mulched material straight into your paper or plastic bag.

Mulching Power and Capacity

worx-wg430-13-amps-motor

The 13-amp engine is bigger than some others. The 13-amp engine is huge. This provides it with a lot of strength to cut a variety of materials. Basically, the cutting mechanism is just an inverted string trimmer. It works great at shredding leaves, particularly in the dry variety.

It cuts large piles of leaves into a fine mulch significantly. The decrease ratio of 11:1 is quite accurate. If you bag leaves or take them away yourself, the amount of bags required would be reduced. This also reduces the work needed to pull all these bags.

The mulch is perfect for use in the garden and for compost. All of this leaf waste can be recycled every year into something beneficial. The capacity to cut the leaves into plastic or paper bags is a great benefit. However, if the WG430 were a little taller to better fit the large leaf packs, it would be nice.

Maintenance and Cleaning

It’s very easy to clean: just clean up the WG430 with water. The recommendation was that you should blow out the engine from time to time with compressed air, to keep the engine clean and functional.

When not in service, it is not recommended to store the WG430 outside. It is not necessary, as the mulcher breaks quickly down, and all the parts are nestled together in your garage or backyard for compact storage. Worx has done a decent job of making this baby portable for storage.

Material Cutting Performance

electric-leaf-mulcher-performance

The cutting string line is really easy and quick to repair. You can do this without any equipment. The cutting blade inside the mulcher still ensures the correct length of the cutting string. There is not much time to bring the string to the same size as it is substituted.

The funnel on the top is deep enough to be able to place large quantities of leaves at a time. The leaves are fed smoothly, given they are lightly spilled and not closely packed. It helps to try to pick out heavy debris when you fill the leaves, such as stones, big sticks, or pine cones.

This increases the life span of the cuts and decreases the possibility that this hard debris gets tossed back at you during mulching.

Materials and Build Quality

The Electric Leaf Mulcher Worx 13-Amp is made from plastic and metal. It’s lightweight, but it looks good. Having a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 3-year warranty makes it a great product.

The Worx has a big opening for feeding a few leaves at a time. It is lightweight and easy to manage. Furthermore, there is no gas to buy or fumes making it reasonably eco-friendly.

Wet leaves can be handled by Worx, but the operation is slow and you sometimes have to scrape the wet mulch as it piles up inside the machine. You’ll have a much more efficient mulching session when you stick to dry leaves.

Functionality

The Worx offers a 13-amp engine of 8500 rpm that gives you the power to shred the pile of leaves quickly and easily.  In one minute this mulcher scraps 53 gallons of dry leaves and reduces 11 bags of leaves to one bag only (Note: use dry leaves only for better outcome).

The number of leaves that need to be disposed of substantially decreases and saves time and resources. Would you want to be green? Why not use your mulch or a compost tumbler for your garden? 

This supplies the soil with essential nutrients and water-retaining qualities for healthy plants. This is extremely useful if every year you usually buy mulch, saving you tons of money!

Recommended for You: Best Leaf Blower Vacuum Mulcher

Product Specifications: 

worx-wg430-electric-mulcher-shredder
  • Amperage: 13 amps
  • Assembled Weight: 20 lbs
  • Chipper Blade Material: Bladeless
  • Chipper Capacity: 10 inches
  • Chute Diameter: 10 inches
  • Chute Material: High impact polymer
  • Power Type: Electric
  • Horsepower: 0.0 hp
  • Housing Material: High impact polymer
  • Input Voltage: 110 Volts
  • Manufacturer Warranty: 2-year warranty
  • Package Inclusion: Leaf mulcher, 24-inch replacement line, composting guide
  • Recommended Safety Equipment: Safety glasses, gloves, ear protection
  • Requires Bag: No
  • Rust Resistant: No
  • Wheels: No

What We Like About Worx WG430 Electric Mulcher 

  • The unit is compact, easy to install, and lightweight.
  • The value for money is outstanding
  • Mulching and shredding is fast
  • Quite simple to assemble without tools
  • Easy to store and lightweight
  • 13 amp engine is powerful
  • Work on dry leaves well enough
  • Recycle waste from yard to rich mulch

What We Don’t Like About Worx WG430 Electric Mulcher Shredder

  • Cannot shred hard objects well such as twigs
  • Generates more dust in contrast to gas-powered ones.

Using and Maintaining A Leaf Mulcher

A leaf mulcher is a relatively simple machine that shreds the leaves when you put them into it with an electric or gas engine, giving you a usable mulch to put into your compost and have them in your garden.

It’s a perfect way to use leaves that fall in your garden instead of disposing of them. But h ow about maintaining it?  You can choose between electric or gas-powered mulching devices, as in many modern power tools.

The most common electric models are by far the easiest to use while the larger gas engines are used primarily by commercial gardeners. Maintenance does not take long for either, so let’s go through some aspects you need to take into account for maintaining it.

Maintenance Tips for Electrically Powered Leaf Mulcher

  • For each application, clean the blades and internal areas after disconnecting them.
  • Keep the battery fully charged and reconnect for long periods while not in service.
  • Always check when using it, that it is secure and fit, as vibrations can create loose parts and screws.
  • Regularly clean the machine before storing it for the season.

As you’ve seen, maintaining a mulcher is not a big task, it is a normal activity, and of course, you can do it. When operating this kind of machine, always wear the required protective equipment to keep the children and pets away from it.

Final Verdict

worx-electric-leaf-mulcher-specifications

To sum things up, The WORX WG430 Shredder is quite lightweight, compact, and very easy to use, and performs quite well to reduce batteries of sheets to make disposal easier. The created mulch is perfect as an alternative to organic planting, gardens, flower gardens, and compost. 

While the cutting strings appear to wear down and split up very quickly, some modifications can increase their lifespan considerably and make the WG430 a very useful addition to the routine for fall clean-up.

We will give this product an 8.9 out of 10 reviews.

Recommended for You: Best Leaf Blower for Pine Needles

Best Electric Leaf Mulcher Shredder 2021- For a Clean and Leaf-Free Lawn

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 🙂

Want to get the Best Electric Leaf Mulcher Shredder in 2021 but not sure which one to get? Well if you want something affordable, clean, and easy to use, read to learn more.

Fall may be an exciting season. Although this means a lovely leafy make a patchwork of the countryside in many places, it also involves an ongoing struggle to keep the yard free of fallen leaves. 

You can definitely sweep them and bag them, but there is a smarter way to use dead leaves and conserve plastic from a waste dump. Invest in the leaf mulcher that chews it up, and you can then make it into a useful fertilizer in a compost pile or in the field.

What Is A Leaf Mulcher & How Do They Work?

The cumbersome nature of the fallen leaves in your area becomes a fine mulch with the use of a leaf mulcher. This eliminates the bag amount you have to transport to or from the recycling facility. Or you can add recycled leaves to a compost pile or scatter them directly in your raised beds if you have a garden.

We have opted only to look at electric-driven models in our mulcher reviews.   The gas-powered leaf mulcher can have more strength, but it can be loud, difficult to start, and needs to be stored and fuel and oil combined.

Leaf mulcher machines fuelled by gas often raise an environmental concern. In our cities, even a few pending regulations that will restrict gas-powered machinery. We’re going to stick to the electric corded type right now.

#1 WORX WG430 Foldable Bladeless Electric Leaf Mulcher

worx-electric-leaf-mulcher

You know how much work it can be to clean up all the leaves and disposing them of them every year, particularly in fall if you have big trees on your land! A leaf mulcher such as the Worx WG430 is a wonderful solution for growing the number of leaves you have to deal with in any season and for use throughout your plants the pail you make can be recycled into your yard.

The leaf mulcher from WORX WG430 is a wonderful way to reduce a large stack of leaves. Therefore, the number of bags from approximately 11 to 1, if you bag your leaves. You will save a lot of money on the bags.

Power

The WORX WG430 is electrically-powered by a 13 AMP motor. Thus, no gas fumes contaminate the air. In addition, electric-driven engines are more quiet than gas.

Make sure the outdoor extension cord is high-quality 12 gauge. A cord that is too light may lack strength and may destroy the engine in your leaf mulcher.

Ratio of Mulching

worx-electric-leaf-mulcher-mulching-ratio

You can easily mulch up to 53 gallons of leaves a minute with the oversized mouth on the WORX leaf mulcher. The ratio is about 11:1.

It has been said that yard waste and debris are more than 60% of what falls into the local waste dump.

The WORX Leaf Mulcher literally turns this waste into a vitamin-rich fertilizer that can be reused in your garden and flower beds. Mixing mulch in your garden will even aerate the soil, fostering new growth. It would also improve the retention of water, reduce time and save watering money.

Assembly

The Worx mulcher can be quickly mounted without any equipment. Really, it is so easy that you don’t even have to look the way to find out it!

And, while not in service, it is just as easy to maintain and store.

Product Specifications: 

worx-electric-leaf-mulcher-specifications
  • Amperage: 13 amps
  • Assembled Weight: 20 lbs
  • Chipper Blade Material: Bladeless
  • Chipper Capacity: 10 inches
  • Chute Diameter: 10 inches
  • Chute Material: High impact polymer
  • Power Type: Electric
  • Horsepower: 0.0 hp
  • Housing Material: High impact polymer
  • Input Voltage: 110 Volts
  • Manufacturer Warranty: 2-year warranty
  • Package Inclusion: Leaf mulcher, 24-inch replacement line, composting guide
  • Recommended Safety Equipment: Safety glasses, gloves, ear protection
  • Requires Bag: No
  • Rust Resistant: No
  • Wheels: No

Pros:

  • Quite simple to assembly without a tool
  • Simple to pack, lightweight
  • 13 amp engine is strong 
  • Performs well on dry leaves 
  • Reuses yard waste in a rich mulch

Cons:

  • Need to be a little higher for broadleaf bags
  • Limited size cutting string is not ideal for sticks combined with leaves.

Where to buy Worx WG430 Electric Mulcher

Check Out Our Individual Product Review for Worx WG430 Electric Mulcher Shredder

#2 Sun Joe SDJ616 Electric Leaf Mulcher Shredder

The Sun Joe SDJ616 is, without any doubt, the best leaf mulcher in most homes with a number of great attributes but coming at a more competitive price. As with our class of bests, it is impressive with a bladeless weed eater setup.

This mulcher shredder is suitable for more than residential yards with a capacity of 55 gallons per minute and a reduction ratio of 16:1. It may also be found in a garden or park for sweeping both in the fall and in the early spring.

A number of yard scraps may also be handled. It may be used for shredding leaves, hay, stalk, and pine needles.

Incredible Features

sun-joe-electric-mulcher-features

A 13-amp engine, which can be used for up to 12gallons per minute, a 16:1 paint ratio, and a dust control cooling system are features of the Snow Joe electric leaf mulcher. 

The cooling system is ideal for dust-free use. Another good thing is that you can quickly stick this product to a bag-lined container to remove the leaves. Moreover, it’s compact and lightweight to make it convenient to pack or carry around.

A control unit that helps you to shred all wet and dry products is what makes it special.

You will definitely like it because you won’t have to waste any more time sorting the shredded pile. Undoubtedly, you’ll get your money’s worth.

Product Specifications:

sun-joe-electric-mulcher-specifications
  • Assembled Product Weight: 13.40 lbs
  • Assembled Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 22.00 x 21.30 x 49.20 inches
  • Amperage: 13 amps
  • Cutting Diameter: 12 inches
  • Trimmer Line Dimensions: 0.1 x 12.6 inches
  • Cutting Diameter: 12 inches
  • Funnel Diameter: 19 inches
  • Mulch Ratio: 16:1
  • Mulching Capability: 55 gal/min
  • No Load Speed: 8000 RPM
  • Sound Power Level: 110 dB.

Pros:

  • Features a strong 13-amp motor with 8000 rpm mulches per minute of up to 55 gallons (208 liters), reducing yard waste to 1/16th of its original scale.
  • It is ideal for quick disposal in a leaf-bag container
  • Settable wet or dry yard waste management dial
  • Smart shred technology  for cleaner air motor cooler during service Lightweight and portable for simple portability and storage
  • 2-year full warranty authorized by ETL

Cons:

  • Wear quickly according to other users
  • Not appropriate for wet and twigs leaves

Where to buy Sun Joe SDJ616 Electric Mulcher Shredder

#3 Flowtron LE-900 Electric Leaf Shredder

flow-tron-le-900-electric-leaf-shredder-mulcher

A thermally sealed 8 amp motor with a circuit breaker and reset button for protection is used in the Flowtron LE-900 Electric Leaf Shredder. It is built with its double heavy cutting lines to cut and mulch the leaves, pine cones, grass clippings, and paper. 

Its high-density polyethylene hopper is 21 inches in diameter and can be placed at any angle for versatility during the load, having the size of one bushel. A sliding control lever can be used to adjust coarse (8:1) to fine shredding sizes (30:1).

Although the system cannot process twigs or leaves, you get longer life than you can expect from plastic blades.

If the Flowtron LE-800 leaf mulcher is intended for later use, or for garbage people to clean it up, you can simply put a huge trash bag on the bottom or just sit it on a large trash can. 

I love this because it doesn’t make any mess until you’re finished wiping it up. The unit is also good to shred, make your own garden paw. The change is coarse and fine.

Assembly

The Flowtron LE-900 Electric Leaf mulcher is very easy to set up right from the box. You just need a screwdriver, which makes it simple. The unit weighs just 17 pounds, so it does not require much strength for you to drive it across the yard. It’s an electrically driven model, perfect as it’s much quieter than a gas-powered mulcher.

Quality of Blade

flow-tron-le-900-electric-leaf-shredder-mulcher-blades

The Flowtron LE-900 has plastic blades, which differs from some leaf mulchers. The blades are easy to adjust and safer than metal blades. Of course, you can’t sharpen plastic blades like metal blades, so you finally have to change them.

Product Specifications:

flow-tron-le-900-electric-leaf-shredder-mulcher-specs
  • Product Weight: 17 lbs
  • Product Dimension: 19.5 x 19.5 x 23 inches
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Motor Amperage: 8 amps
  • Funnel Diameter: 21 inches

Pros:

  • Comfortable built-in handles
  • Built-in storage
  • The customizable pressure knobs enable the hopper to be mounted at any angle for faster load.
  • Can be used directly for quick disposal on trash container with leaf bag liner
  • Universal powerful motor with protection against overload
  • Adjusting the size of the particle to fine shredding; up to 30 to 1
  • Elastic bungee cord locks in place of the leaf bag.

Cons:

  • Strings can be quickly cut
  • A little bit noisy
  • Motor struggles when the material is stuffed in a hopper too tightly

Where to buy Flowtron LE-900 Electric Leaf Mulcher

Check Out Our Individual Product Review for Flowtron LE-900 Electric Leaf Mulcher Shredder

#4 Earthwise GS70015 Electric Shredder

earthwise-garden-electric-shredder

For small to medium-sized yards, this electric model is a great option.

The Earthwise has a robust 15-Amp electrical engine that can chip leaves and branches up to a thickness of 1-3⁄4 inch.

This machine provides you with all standard safety features. During operation, the leaf chute and handle tool will keep your hands secure. The kill switch cuts power to the engine to avoid burnout when the system is overloaded.

Features: 

earthwise-garden-electric-shredder-features
  • Strong mulcher with a 15-amp electric motor for shredding branches with a thickness up to 1.75″
  • Chute and tampering tool that leaves your hands free and away from the shredder
  • Electric mulcher with a large 1.2 Bushel storage bin that is simple to clean.
  • Portable, rear-wheel electrical mulcher
  • Type: Aluminum, Metal, Plastic; 
  • Type of power source: electrically-corded

The chipper rests on a powerful and sturdy foundation of wheels. It uses steel blades, but it has a cover and a handle to be loaded and tamped.

It is mostly a shredder for leaves, but can also chip branches. It is powerful and stable enough to make it considerable.

Product Specifications:

earthwise-garden-electric-shredder-specs
  • Chipper Blade Material: Steel
  • Chipper Capacity: 1.75 inches
  • Amperage: 15
  • Reduction Ratio: 10:1
  • Bag Capacity: 1.2 Bushels
  • Warranty: 2-year limited
  • Wheels: Yes

Pros: 

  • Strong and powerful electric motor
  • Incredible safety features
  • Bin Collection 1.2-bushel
  • Simple handling of rear wheels
  • Convenient to use
  • Compact and portable
  • Slim and smooth wheels

Cons:

  • Requires safety glasses and gloves for use

Where to buy Earthwise GS70015 Electric Shredder

#5 Sun Joe CJ602E Electric Leaves Wood Shredder

sun-joe-cj602e-electric-shredder

This shredder is certainly the perfect knock for your money. The CJ602E of Sun Joe is an electric leaf and wood shredder that can scratch wood, as long as its diameter is less than 1 inch (1.5 pounds). Fortunately, for most homeowners, that capacity is just enough to clear big piles of leaves and woods. It has 15 amps and produces 4300 rpm, but the engine of that unit is nothing to sneeze at.

This shredder gives priority not only to power but also to safety. It has features such as a safety button and a locking button to avoid accidents. With its lightweight, portable build and sturdy frame, it is incredibly simple to use and maintain.

The shredder blades churning in over 4 000 revolutions per minute will effectively limit the yard waste to less than 6 percent (17:1 ratio).

Convenient

sun-joe-cj602e-electric-shredder-power

This leaf shredder weighs only 17 pounds, and is simple to lug at its six inch wide wheels in your yard. It is much calmer than petrol models and the purchasing of gas or fumes and smoke must not be undertaken.

Not to mention, it is incredibly easy to store and to pair. It is important to remember that there is no bag so that you have to provide a way to gather the mulch. This is the great shredder for those who do not have to cope with much hard and dense waste for small to medium yards.

Sturdy and Powerful

The Sun Joe CJ602E is a 15-amp electric, light-duty-fitting wood and leaves shredder. It may be used for the backyard garden – or for use around trees and flower beds – by up to a width of 1.5 inch wooden limbs as well as yard brosches, leaves and cuttings. Wood shreddings  can also be great for grilling your favorite food with smokey taste – just soak it in water before using, roll it in foil, place a few holes in the base of the foil and stick it under a barbecue corner.

Product Specifications:

  • Model: CJ602E
  • Manufacturer: Snow Joe
  • Product Weight: 33 lbs
  • Product Dimensions: 18.90 x 16.14 x 26.38 Inches
  • Warranty: 2 Year Warranty
  • Amperage: 15 amps
  • Cutting Diameter: 1-9/16 inches
  • Engine Type: Electric
  • Maximum RPM: 4,100 RPM
  • Power Type: Electric
  • Rear Tire Size: 6 inches
  • Shredder: No

Pros:

  • Ideal for transforming branches and leaves into a garden mulch rich in nutrients
  • A powerful 15 amp engine that efficiently chips and shuts up to 1.5-inch thick branches
  • Durable design for quick mobility with 6-inch wheels
  • Safety buttons and a locking knob of the engine from working while it is unlocked.
  • approved by ETL; 2-year complete warranty

Cons:

  • No bag
  • Limited capacity
sun-joe-cj602e-electric-leaf-twig-shredder

Where to buy Sun Joe CJ602E Electric Leaves Wood Shredder

#6 Superhandy 2-in-1 Electric Mulcher, Shredder 

superhandy-leaf-mulcher-shredder

The Superhandy Shredder is ideal for those who want only a large machine to clean their yard. This chipper with 16-amp electric shredder is an outstanding choice for the environment-friendly setting.

 It just operates on electricity, so no gas or oil is required and therefore the surrounding air is not polluted. It’s also useful for noise reduction, with a much safer and quieter motor than most models. 

The 16 amp electric motor has a 2.5 hp electric leaf shredder that can be used to turn small trees, twigs, leaves and corn into a mulch. The electric power generation is very powerful. The rounded discharge chute facilitates the attachment of your own bag – including a variety of reusable bag brands.

Durability

superhandy-leaf-mulcher-shredder-durability

The chute and loading area are simple to clean and the electric sheet shredder is fitted with a metal blade that can be replaced by the replacement blades and a range of generic blade products. 

It comes with a shutdown button so it works safer and automatically shuts down when the engine jams. The shredding and mulching leaves have three cycles, which provide an overall cleaner outcome than other models.

The machines are much smaller than other electric mulchers and feature convenient seven-inch wheels to make getting around simple, but cannot be disassembled for warehousing.

It is specially intended to compost and provides a large mulch that can be used to mitigate the growth of weed in your yard. 

Product Specifications:

  • Power Source: Electric
  • Dimensions:21 x 20.5 x 20 inches
  • Weight: 48.6 lbs
  • Power: 15-AMP
  • Wattage: 1800 Watt 
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Feeding Port Material: Heavy duty steel
  • Wheels: 6 inches
  • Blades: 3 11 inches
  • RPM: 3000

Pros:

  • Environment-Friendly Electric Power
  • Powerful and Efficient Motor
  • Safety Features
superhandy-leaf-mulcher-shredder-specs

Cons:

  • It cannot be disassemble

Where to buy Superhandy 2-in-1 Electric Mulcher, Shredder

#7 POWER SMART PS10 15 AMP ELECTRIC SHREDDER

powersmart-ps10-electric-shredder

The Power Smart PS10 Shredder is a versatile tool for small yards. – it is very cheap and simple to carry around the lawn. It is also incredibly easy to use and safe. This is a perfect technique for making mulch and making the plants better if you have a greenhouse.

You will start a burning pile, load it all, go into the dump after trimming your trees, bushes and shrubs and feed it all into the PowerSmart PS10 15 Amp Electric Hacker Shredder. It can accommodate up to 1,6-inch thick branches and turns them into shredded timber mattresses, which can be used to cover flower beds or placed on a compost stack. 

It works well on small trees and branches that are less than 1 inch wide, dry or green.  The good news is that this garden tool is supplied with an overload safety and so if you press it a little too hard you and your motor will immediately be shut down. 

Features

powersmart-ps10-electric-shredder

The engine comes with 15/8″ cutting ability which manages to speed up cutting and crushing woods and leaves.

The next is the mobility point, so there are 6-inch wheels for fast mobility. The locking button on the safety hopper stops motor operations when opened or loosed so that the motor does not operate if it is not necessary.

It has a 120V, 60Hz,15 amp engine at 4500 rpm speeds. The branches up to 1 5/8′′ diameter  can be quickly chipped. Because it’s easy to move, don’t think about lifting it.

The two-year warranty is decent, because you can get the model fixed or replaced without charge if you encounter any faults.

Safety Feature

An overload switch is fixed within the device to instantly interrupt the system if a great deal of load is assigned to it to prevent the breakdown from overloading.

The PS10 is immediately turned off when overloaded. That’s especially useful because you don’t want the motor to be overworked.

The safety locking knob is also a pretty safe feature. This can stop spinning of the blades while the PS10 is open or just a little loose.

If the PS10 jammed (it doesn’t happen, of course)  Unraveling is really simple. You should only open the shredder cover and uninstall everything that causes it to jam. Just close it and you are good to go.

Product Specifications:

powersmart-ps10-electric-shredder-specs.jpg
  • Model Number: PS10
  • Power Source: Electric
  • Motor: 15-amp
  • Speed: 4,500 RPM
  • Cutting Diameter: 1.625 inches 
  • Mulch Ratio: 20:1
  • Product Dimension: 12 x 17 x 24 inches
  • Product Weight: 33 pounds
  • Warranty: 2 years

Pros:

  • Simple to use
  • Powerful engine
  • With mulch ratio of 20:1
  • Convenient wheels for easy mobility
  • Accessible.
  • Assembly is easy
  • Instantly shuts off when overloaded
  • Safety locking knob
  • Not loud.

Cons:

  • Small hopper and opening

Where to buy Power Smart PS10 15 AMP Electric Shredder

#8  Eco Shredder ES1600 Electric Shredder

eco-shredder-electric-mulcher

The Eco Shredder ES1600 Electric Shredder is designed to chip or shred garden waste including leaves, twigs, dead plants and bush trimmings. This process decreases their size significantly and also makes useful mulch for gardens or flower beds. The ES1600 has an electric 14 Volt, 2.5 hp motor with a top speed of 2800 rpm and a decreased ratio of 10:1.

The device contains an overload safety switch which protects the engine if it is jammed. The top hoppers can take twigs, roots and leaves, while small side hoppers can take sticks with a diameter of up to 1 3/8 inches.

A V-type blade is equipped with a three-point action cutting mechanism, and additional blades are available. The ES1600 is fitted with two 7-inch wheels and a portability handle and weighs 70 lbs.

Quiet and Convenient

The convenience and noise output of this machine are much better than the gas driven ones, as are most of the electric chips and mulchers. Definitely a major plus not to think about pulling gas tanks and start cords. With its lightweight size, it is easy to store in a small house or in a garage without any trouble.

Performance

The Eco-Shredder is designed to handle light work, which is great. Small branches and twigs about an inch or less are quickly sliced into a well-looking mulch. It helps to prepare sticks before they run in, for example snipping off big knots and separating the Y-shaped pieces. 

The leaves are easily broken into a fine mulch and are very useful for composting. Because of the limited scale of the hopper, it can take such a long while to scrap vast amounts of leaves; but one handful can be achieved with some patience and preparation.

Jamming 

Almost surely this machine often jams up, but the motor is protected from damage by its overload switch. The Eco-Shredder ES1600 is also easy to open and remove the jam or block. 

Eco-Shredder ES1600’s Special Features

eco-shredder-electric-mulcher-features

The greatest feature of this specific model is its ability to minimize the input of 10 to 1, while at the same time providing highly nutrient-rich and dense compost, mulcher, chipping shreds and other materials which can be used to maintain the whole life of your garden land.

Save Money and Time

You can save more money and save more time with this machine, which helps you produce your own mulch and which is also an excellent means of avoiding the environment from recycling, which gives the eco-shredder its name.

Product Specifications:

  • Power: 14 Amp 
  • Horsepower: 2.5 hp electric motor
  • Max Speed: 2800 RPM 
  • Blades: V-type Triple action shredding/mulching
  • Overload protection switch
  • Top hopper loading and a side chute
  • Seven inch wheels and a pull handle
  • Weight: 70 pounds
  • Product Dimensions (LxWxH): 22 x 22 x 24 inches

Pros:

  • Performs well with shredding leaves and chipping small sticks  (1 inch or less).
  • The mulch produced is great for gardening, flower gardens and composting.
  • Compact and easy to store.
  • Much quieter and convenient than gas powered ones.

Cons:

  • The cutting system is cumbersome and makes large or wet material to be jammed.
  • Small scale of hopper increases the time it takes to split huge volumes of leaves.

Where to buy Eco Shredder ES1600 Electric Shredder

Buyer’s Guide

You can make your own mulch out of your leaves and organic materials in your yard. You can do this efficiently by purchasing the best leaf mulcher shredder. Actually, it’s easy to make mulch if you use a leaf mulcher. There are several considerations to be considered when planning to purchase one of these devices in order to get the right equipment for your specifications.

Capacity

You should pay close attention to the leaf mulcher capacity when comparing models. Lightweight mulchers are suitable for those who just require twigs and leaves to be mulched. 

You probably benefit from a larger leaf mulcher, which can accommodate larger parts, if you’ve got a yard with lots of trees.Leaf mulchers appear to be priced as the machine’s power grows.

Power

Mulchers with a different performance from model to model may be gas-powered or electrical. Electric mulchers are quieter, but you can go with them just in the distance. If you have a big yard, a gas-powered leaf shredder might be easier than an electric yard.

Quality of the Blade

blade-quality-of-leaf-mulchers

The level of safety and blade also varies among models. Become aware of the blade and protection standard of all the leaf mulchers you want to purchase by means of product reviews.

It is necessary to choose a mulcher with quality blades because it is the machine’s most important component.If you don’t have good quality blades, your mulcher won’t be very effective. This could contribute to the potential cost of repairing it earlier than expected.

Design

Mulchers can be tools that are independent or portable. Some are drive tools of the mower style, some are leaf vacuum mulchers.

Collection Bag

Most mulchers come to collect leaf scrap in their own bag. The ability to dust-block these leaves is vital, so they don’t cover you with the ultra-fine cloud of leaf waste. Other mulchers can contain a bag, but you have to buy it individually.

Final Thoughts

It would take a lot of work to keep one’s garden tidy and unwieldy, but we always come out and find that it can be too difficult for our garden to be covered with leaves and fallen twigs. 

Many gardeners have a hard time cleaning up their gardens by paying extra hands, but it no longer has to be like that because there is a device that is built to help us clean up our gardens and ponds.

The next time you want to enhance your garden work skills, you should consider investing in the best mulcher shredder. It will help you keep an appealing, well-managed lawn, impressing your neighbors and getting your work well done. All of the above are preferred tools for effective and convenient garden care.

The Best Leaf Blower for Pine Needles (2021)

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 🙂 

Let’s Help You Find the Best Leaf Blower for Pine Needles (2021)

If pine needles and dead leaves are gathering up faster than you can get rid of them then it’s time to find a more effective cleaning strategy for your garden or yard. Why struggle with a back-breaking rake when you can do the same job in a fraction of the time and with less effort.

A handheld leaf blower is the best way to keep your outdoor space tidy and free from dead leaves. It can do the same job as a rake, only 10 times quicker. A handheld leaf blower is perfect for an average-sized home and can cope with the demands involved with shifting large leaf piles and pine needles. Whether this is your first ever leaf blower or if you’re looking to upgrade an older machine, we’ve got you covered.

Portable leaf blowers are usually designed to be either backpack units that you can strap onto your back to ease the load from your arms or you could choose a compact lightweight electric handheld model. There’s no wrong choice here- it boils down to the size of your lawn or yard.

Toro-51621-UltraPlus-Leaf-Blower-Vacuum

If your yard is smaller than 1 acre then you’re better off with a handheld leaf blower. If you’re cleaning a space larger than an acre then a backpack blower is best as it allows you to clean for an extended period of time. Below is a shortlist of recommended leaf blowers for pine needles and dead leaves.

#1. Top Choice- Hitachi Gas Powered 170 MPH Handheld Leaf Blower

There are few leaf blowers that can match the sheer performance of the Hitachi RB24EAP. It’s our favourite leaf blower and there’s a good reason why. The machine is equipped with an airflow of 441 CFM and expels air at a whopping 170 miles per hour.

Hitachi-RB24EAP-Gas-Powered-Handheld-Leaf-Blower

There’s plenty of power to clear pine needles and dead leaves, however, if you’re faced with the challenge of blowing away wet leaves or heavier objects such as twigs, the airflow is sufficient to tackle those jobs.

The Hitachi leaf blower is equipped with a 23.9 cc 2-stroke engine that is robust enough for industrial use. It produces plenty of torque and spins at blazing fast speeds. The unit is gas-powered but somehow the manufacturer has managed to keep the machine lightweight, weighing just 8.6 pounds. It handles well thanks to an evenly distributed weight.

Check out the full product review for the Hitachi RB24EAP leaf blower here.

The air nozzle focuses the large amounts of airflow into a steady stream that produces a consistently powerful jet of air to blow away debris, leaves and pine needles from all the areas they are not wanted. The Hitachi RB24EAP is made from high-grade materials and the manufacturer backs this machine with a lengthy 7-year warranty for domestic use.

Hitachi-RB24EAP-Gas-Powered-Leaf-Blower-Handheld-Lightweight-23.9cc-2-Cycle-Engine

Where Can I Buy The Hitachi Gas Powered 170 MPH Handheld Leaf Blower

#2. Affordable Choice- Toro Corded Ultra Blower / Vacuum

Next up is the Toro Corded Ultra leaf blower. If you’re looking for an affordable solution that still delivers the same reliability as a pricier model then you won’t find a better option.

Toro-51619-Ultra-Electric-Blower-Vac-250-mph

The Toro blower is fitted with a robust electric motor that expels air at faster speeds than costlier machines. You’ll be pleased to know that it can achieve speeds of up to 250 mph, which is unheard of at this price level.

A huge benefit of using the Toro blower is its capability to change from a blower to a vacuum. This additional feature can be utilized by easily turning a button.

The Toro leaf blower comes with several attachments to help with shifting debris from tight spaces. It’s also handy for blowing away dust and outdoor dirt that makes its way into your garage. Within the packaging, you will find a concentrator nozzle, a bottom zip bag, power insert, vacuum tube and a space-saving storage hook.

Additionally, you can transform the Toro leaf blower into a leaf mulcher thanks to the metal impeller and an adjustable speed setting that lets you control the power depending on the size of the task at hand.

Toro-51619-Ultra-Electric-Blower-Vac-250-mph-Red

Shredding is made easy with the impeller that chops twigs and leaves to a tiny size of just 1/2″. The quick-release mechanism allows you to remove attachments from the primary unit in seconds.

Where Can I Buy The Toro Corded Ultra Blower Vacuum

#3. Worx Turbine Cordless Blower

If you’re looking for a robust cordless leaf blower, the WORX WG591 is a powerful option. The unique design allows you to enjoy the conveniences of a portable machine yet it delivers the equivalent power of a larger leaf blower.

WORX-WG591-Turbine-56V-Cordless-Battery-Powered-Leaf-Blower

Surprisingly the team at Worx have managed to fit an incredibly powerful motor in the machine’s enclosure that delivers a powerful airflow of 461 CFM. With this level of airflow at your disposal, you can clear away a large number of pine needles and dead leaves quicker than the competition.

This machine comes with a Boost function that ramps up the power of the machine. With this feature, you can supercharge the machine to use every bit of power that it can draw from the 56V lithium-ion power pack for short bursts.

The WORX WG591 is already a powerful leaf blower and I doubt that you’ll ever need to use the extra power but it’s good to know that it’s there should it ever be required for mammoth tasks.

WORX-WG591-Turbine-56V-Cordless-Battery-Powered-Leaf-Blower-with-Turbo-Boost

For smaller jobs such as clearing dust, soil, sand or dry leaves simply set the power to a minimum level using the adjustable variable-speed dial. The WORX WG591 is extremely lightweight and comes with a convenient handle that makes this nifty leaf blower one of the most user-friendly machines.

Where Can I Buy The Worx Turbine Cordless Blower

#4. Husqvarna Gas Powered Handheld Blower

The Husqvarna 952711925 is one of the most versatile leaf blowers that you can buy for domestic cleaning. It can be tailored for different tasks and gives you so much more than just speed adjustment.

Husqvarna-125B-28CC-170-Mph-Gas-Leaf-Handheld-Blower

The Husqvarna leaf blower allows you to adjust the tube length for smoother handling. If you want to adjust the fan speed there’s a dial for that. It’s powered by a robust two-stroke gasoline engine to make light work of challenging tasks.

What I like about the Husqvarna leaf blower is its well-thought-out portable lightweight design that provides the best user-friendly experience when dealing with all manner of outdoor debris.

The machine can be tailored to virtually any situation and it takes the hassle out of clearing a yard cluttered with dead leaves and pine needles. The fan housing is cleverly positioned to keep the airflow aligned to the carrying handle and as a result, this minimises strain to your arms and wrists.

Husqvarna-125B-28CC-170-Mph-Leaf-Blower

The Husqvarna leaf blower delivers a cleaning performance that sits up there with the best of them. The blower can achieve peak airspeeds of up to 170 miles per hour and can comfortably provide a consistent airflow of 450+ CFM.

Where Can I Buy The Husqvarna Gas Powered Handheld Blower

Buyers Guide for the Best Leaf Blower for Pine Needles

Electric handheld leaf blowers are a practical choice if you have outdoor power sockets conveniently positioned close to the areas that require regular cleaning or if you own a long outdoor extension lead. It’s best to buy a lightweight leaf blower and preferably one with a vacuum mulcher function.

The vacuum feature is handy for sucking up outdoor debris such as pine needles and leaves into the collection bag. There are 2 important factors to take into account when buying a leaf blower, whether, you decide to buy a gas-powered, electric or battery appliance you need to look at the CFM (cubic feet per minute) and the airflow speed which will be shown either in Miles per hour or Kilometers per hour. Speed plays a vital role in determining how powerful your new machine will be.

A quicker airspeed will allow you to swift heavier debris such as wet leaves or small branches. If you intend to clear away heavy leaves then I would recommend buying a leaf blower with an airspeed no less than 150 miles per hour.

The-Best-Leaf-Blower-for-Pine-Needles

The CFM (cubic feet per minute) will regulate the volume of air expelled by the leaf blower at a given speed. You want an appliance that pumps out an airspeed with plenty of CFM, therefore, allowing you to shift more debris without increasing effort.

In summary, the airflow decides the number of leaves your leaf blower can shift per minute. The airspeed determines the heaviness and size of debris that your machine can cope with. It’s also worth checking features such as battery life (for battery-operated leaf blowers), is it made from high-quality materials? How noisy is the machine?

Factors To Consider when buying a Garden Vacuum or Leaf Blower

I’ve included plenty of handy tips to consider when deciding which is the best leaf blower to buy. There are plenty of options, however, I’ve simplified the selection process and have shortlisted the machines that come highly recommended for performance, handling and shorter cleaning times.

WORX-WG591-Turbine-56V-Battery-Powered-Leaf-Blower

Best Uses for Garden Vacuums and Leaf Blowers

The benefits of a leaf blower are quickly realised from the moment you turn it on. This appliance makes light work of the mammoth job of removing leaves, pine needles and other dirt from your garden or yard.

Many of the modern appliances come with a vacuum and blower feature, however, the ultimate machine will also including a mulching function that shreds dead leaves into a fraction of their size- the end result can be recycled and used as compost. Removing leaves from your lawn is important to ensure that it stays healthy and is not deprived of light.

Leaf vacuum blowers should not be used to collect stones or large twigs to avoid breaking the appliance. If you need to collect leaves from pavements with pebbles or soil, then the best way to do this is to first blow them onto a clear patch of grass prior to vacuuming them.

Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-9

Things To Know Prior to Buying a Leaf Blower

Here are some of the questions you should be asking when considering the right type of leaf blower vacuum for your needs-

  • What is the size of the area you need to clear?
  • What type of debris are you shifting?
  • How heavy is the leaf blower and is it a weight you can comfortably carry around?
  • Can you cope with the noise it emits and the airflow power?
  • Would you be better off with a leaf blower vacuum mulcher or just a leaf blower?
Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-2

Garden or Lawn Size

Small Gardens or lawns

The ideal appliance for smaller gardens is a portable handheld electric or battery-powered blower vacuum. Always check that the cable length is sufficient to reach from the power socket to the areas that you need to clear.

If you decide to buy a battery-powered cordless leaf blower vacuum then you should check the running times. The best models will give you a running time of around 40 minutes and the lower end of the scale is around 15-20 minutes.

Bigger Gardens or Lawns

For a bigger lawn or garden area, you might want to consider a petrol leaf blower to take on challenging tasks. You will be provided with a higher level of power compared to electric handheld blowers.

BLACK+DECKER-BEBL7000-Leaf-Blower-Mulcher-Vacuum-with-backpack

If you decide to buy a backpack leaf blower, there’s the benefit of distributing the weight across your back. These models are fitted with comfortable shoulder straps that are usually padded to use the appliance for extended time periods.

Huge Gardens and Lawns

Huge lawns and garden spaces are best cleared off with push or wheeled leaf blower vacuums. They are designed to clean large amounts of debris and come with big collection bags with a capacity of up to 90 gallons.

If you already own a tractor then you might want to consider buying a towable lawn sweeper. All you need to do is attach the sweeper onto the rear of your ride-on and you’re good to go. These appliances can cope with clearing dry leaves of mammoth proportions.

Professional-Leaf-Blower

Types of Garden Vacuums & Leaf Blowers

Handheld Electric Models

Standard leaf blowers are generally electric handheld units designed to clear garden and lawns with their powerful airflow. The advantage is that leaves can be rapidly shifted into piles where they can be disposed of or moved into a compost bin.

Cordless Models

The latest leading cord-free leaf blowers are fitted with modern lithium-ion batteries which provide longer running times and the equivalent performance of many petrol models. The benefit of battery is that its kinder to the environment, you don’t need to worry about buying fuel and it not as noisy as alternative machines. It’s lightweight too.

Depending on the model that you get, batteries can be topped up in just half an hour. Some models can even use batteries from different machines of the same brand. It’s worth checking whether batteries can be shared between appliances so that there is always a spare available.

Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-3

Handheld Petrol Models

Petrol models are one of the most powerful leaf blowers available. They can expel an airflow of over 350 cubic feet per minute which is plenty of power for large spaces, however, if you need an appliance that clear leaves, pine needles and other types of debris on an epic scale then you should look at buying a walk-behind or push leaf blower. This machine can expel a staggering 1800 cubic feet per minute of airflow and is the type of unit that can be used in public parks, stadiums and golf courses.

Garden Vacuum Blowers

For the ultimate convenience, you want to buy a leaf blower with a vacuum feature. This means that you can move leaves into a neat pile then vacuum and shred them up easier. The resulting waste can then be used as nutrient-rich compost. It’s a good way to recycle and save money at the same time.

The best performing leaf blower vacuums allow you to switch between functions by simply pressing a button. These models usually come with a large nozzle that can be awkward to use in smaller spaces, however, the machines are often lightweight and easy to manoeuvre.

Backpack Models

We’ve already looked at backpack leaf blower but it’s worth mentioning that you can get petrol versions that are perfect for bigger areas. The robust petrol motor is strapped to your back to ensure that the weight of the machine is evenly distributed, therefore, allowing you to work for longer.

BLACK+DECKER-BEBL7000-BackPack-Leaf-Blower-Vacuum-Mulcher

Wheeled Petrol Model

Wheeled petrol leaf blower vacuums are far too powerful for the average domestic dwelling, however, if you need an appliance for a very large area then this is the ideal solution. You’ll find that these machines are used for commercial jobs such as clearing rubbish in a stadium after an event or clearing a huge number of dead leaves from a park.

What about Lawn Sweepers?

Lawn sweepers are manual appliances that can either be towed or pushed. While the wheels are in motion they drive a large brush which collects dirt. A brush that rotates quickly will improve the machine’s sweeping capabilities. If you want to clear a large space quickly you should consider a lawn sweeper.

Can a Leaf Blower be used to Clear Your Gutters?

By now we’ve established that a leaf blower speeds up garden cleaning and the same applies to clearing gutters that are prone to getting clogged up by dead leaves.

Gutter cleaning requires a leaf blower that is lightweight and easy to lift towards high-reaching areas. A portable handheld leaf blower is the best machine for the task.

Worx-WG509-TRIVAC-12-Amp-3-In-1-Electric-Blower-Mulcher

Stay Safe

Make sure you protect your ears from the noise of the machine especially when cleaning gutters. The noise produced by a leaf blower can be as high as 95 decibels which is about the same level of noise produced by an angle grinder. The appliance will be closer to your ears, therefore, it’s best to invest in a pair of high-grade ear muffs.

When handling a powerful appliance such as a leaf blower, I’d recommend wearing a pair of goggles and a dust mask to protect your eyes and nose.

What is the Best Leaf Blower for Gutters?

Commercial gutter cleaning businesses tend to use The Husqvarna Gas Powered Handheld Blower Vacuum. This gadget provides a powerful jet flow yet it retains a portable body that is practical for dealing with the tricky task of clearing gutters at home.

Husqvarna-320iB-40-Volt-103-MPH-Handheld-Leaf-Blower

A gas-powered leaf blower is highly favoured because of its superiority over other models when it comes to delivering a powerful airflow from a small appliance.

Conclusion

That concludes our buyer’s guide of the best leaf blower for pine needles. By now you should have a good idea about the type of appliance suitable for your specific requirements. As you can see there are plenty of options to meet the needs of your backyard whether it’s small, medium or gargantuan!

You can choose a battery leaf blower, an electric model or maybe you need a more powerful petrol appliance. Either way, there’s an option to suit your needs and lawn size.

Are you considering buying a leaf blower to clear pine needles or dead leaves in your garden or do you already own one? Maybe you also want a gadget that can shred leaves and convert them into mulch? If so, please leave your comments in the section below. I’d love to hear from you.

Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-10

Our List of the Best Domestic Appliances

The Best Leaf Blowers For All Yard Sizes- Read our Reviews and Buyers Guide for 2021

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.

Toro-51621-UltraPlus-Leaf-Blower-Vacuum

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.
Black-&-Decker-BV6000-Leaf-Blower

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.
  • Keep the machine in an area that is cool and dry.
Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-2

Recommended Reading: Best Commercial Leaf Blower Vacuums

How To Buy the Best Leaf Blower for Your Needs

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.

Husqvarna-320iB-40-Volt-103-MPH-Handheld-Leaf-Blower

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.

BLACK+DECKER-BEBL7000-Leaf-Blower-Mulcher-Vacuum-with-backpack

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.

Recommended Reading: Best Commercial Leaf Blower Vacuums

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.

Worx-WG509-TRIVAC-12-Amp-3-In-1-Electric-Blower-Mulcher-Vacuum

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.

Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-8

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.

Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-10

Recommended Reading: Best Commercial Leaf Blower Vacuums

How Much Work is Intended for Your Leaf Blower?

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.

BLACK+DECKER-BEBL7000-BackPack-Leaf-Blower-Vacuum-Mulcher

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.

Recommended Reading: Best Commercial Leaf Blower Vacuums

What Type of Fuel is Best For Your Leaf Blower?

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.

Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-3

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

Black+Decker-BV3600-Blower-Vac-12-Amp

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.

Petrol-Leaf-Blower-Vacuum

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.

Recommended Reading: Best Commercial Leaf Blower Vacuums

What else should you know about Leaf Blowers?

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.

Toro-51619-Ultra-Leaf-Blower-Vacuum

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.

Toro-51621-UltraPlus-Leaf-Blower-Vacuum-Storage

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.

Best-Mulchers-Leaf-Blower-4

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.

Recommended Reading: Best Commercial Leaf Blower Vacuums

Our List of the Best Domestic Appliances

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join the SmartVacGuide community to receive the latest news & free stuff

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Pin It on Pinterest