Your choice of leaf blower has a significant impact on keeping your garden tidy during fall and winter. Your primary decision is to choose between an electric leaf blower and a gas leaf blower. Both of these gardening power tools have their advantages and disadvantages. Typically, your decision depends on three factors—the size of the yard, type of leaves, and budget.
In general, a corded electric leaf blower is lighter, cheaper, and easier to operate than a gas model. Additionally, there are electric models with a vacuum function and mulches to make composting leaves easier. On the other hand, a gas-powered blower has plenty of power compared to electric blowers and isn’t restricted by the power cord length.
This article helps answer various questions you may have about leaf blowers. For example, are gas leaf blowers better than electric models? What should I look for when buying a leaf blower? When is buying an electric leaf blower better than a gas blower?
What is an Electric Leaf Blower?
An electric leaf blower is a handheld power tool that forces air out of the blower tube to push leaves into piles. Despite its name as a leaf blower, you can use it to move garden debris like grass cuttings, light snow, dust, and small twigs or stones.
Typically, an electric-powered leaf blower is powered by an electrical power cord. This ensures prolonged use as you move around your yard, clearing leaves and other bits of debris. In addition, the electric blower is usually lightweight, easy to operate, and safe when used correctly. It is also advisable that the blower has a variable speed control for shifting all types of yard debris.
Battery-powered electric leaf blowers are relatively new on the market. However, cordless leaf blowers tend to have a limited range due to their rechargeable batteries. But, of course, cordless blowers have their advantages. However, their short runtime means it’s impossible to compare battery leaf blowers with electric or gas models. Therefore, this article discusses the benefits of corded leaf blowers compared to gas-powered models.
Gas Leaf Blower
A gas-operated blower has a gasoline engine powering the motor to push air out of the blower’s nozzle. A gas blower can be a handheld or backpack model. In most cases, backpack and handheld gas blowers are used for clearing large areas of heavy leaves in residential and commercial properties.
A gas-powered blower usually has a two-stroke engine or four-stroke engine.
Typically, the only restrictions with using a gas-powered tool for clearing leaves are fuel tank size and noise levels. Therefore, a blower with a gas engine gives the user complete freedom of movement when working in the garden.
Electric Leaf Blower vs. Gas Leaf Blower
An electric leaf blower weighs less and is cheaper than gas-powered blowers. However, gas blowers have a more powerful engine and clear wet leaves faster. Another difference is that the extension cord limits the range of electric blowers. This means you don’t have to inhale emissions that come from gas models.
The Pros and Cons of Electric Leaf Blowers
Electric-powered leaf blowers tend to be the choice of most homeowners. Usually, the most efficient and powerful electric blowers cost under $100. Additionally, they are lightweight and easy to store. However, they are not always suitable for clearing large amounts of leaves from large yards.
Pros of electric-powered leaf blowers
- Cheaper than gas or cordless leaf blowers
- Long runtime due to having a constant power source—better than battery-operated leaf blowers
- Quiet operation compared to other types of leaf blowers
- Excellent airspeed and air volume
- No environmental pollution or toxic fumes to breathe in
- Virtually maintenance-free
Cons of electric leaf blowers
- The length of the extension cord restricts use, typically up to 100 feet
The Pros and Cons of Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers
Gas leaf blowers tend to be powerful blowers that reach impressive air speeds and air volume. Because it is a “cordless model,” there is no restriction to where you can use them. However, their maintenance, cost of fuel, and emissions can be an issue.
Pros of gas-powered leaf blowers
- Unrivaled power compared to a corded or cordless model
- Deals with any amount of leaves
- A choice of backpack or handheld leaf blowers
Cons of gas leaf blowers
- Nosier than cordless or corded blower
- Gas blowers are heavier
- They create harmful emissions and are not environmentally friendly
- Require regular maintenance
- Potential risks of working with and storing flammable liquids
Are Electric Leaf Blowers Worth It?
Overall, corded leaf blowers are the best type of leaf blower you can buy. For between $50 and $100, it’s possible to buy a powerful leaf blower that rivals some of the cheaper gas-powered models. In addition, you’ll find that electric leaf blowers are easy to store, maintain, and use around your yard.
How to Choose the Ideal Leaf Blower for Your Yard
The type of leaf blower you choose depends on several factors. Apart from considering the differences between an electric leaf blower and a gas-powered model, it’s vital to choose the right type for cleaning your yard.
Here are some handy tips on picking a suitable leaf blower—electric or gas—for your yard:
Airspeed (MPH)—The speed air comes out of the blower nozzle is measured in miles per hour. The MPH rating is an important consideration; however, you must consider the volume of leaves the tools can move. Having a leaf blower with a variable speed throttle allows you to clear all types of leaves.
Air volume (CFM)—The volume of air the blower produces is measured in cubic feet per minute. CFM is the best specification to consider because it determines how quickly you can clear leaves and debris from your yard. A high MPH with an air volume of 400 to 600 CFM is an indication of a powerful leaf blower.
Noise level—In most residential yards, gas blowers are too noisy compared to electric models. Also, you should check the noise rating to see if ear protection is necessary when operating the power tool.
Attachments—If you want to mulch leaves or compost them, choose a leaf blower with a vacuum and metal impeller for shredding wet or dry leaves.
Ease of use—For most home gardeners, a handheld model with an ergonomic handle is all that’s required from a suitable leaf blower. A gas-powered backpack model is probably too bulky to use and store.
User reviews—Before buying a new leaf blower, check out online reviews. Getting an idea of how users rate the gardening tool, its efficiency, lifespan, and customer service can help you make the best decision.
Electric vs. Gas Leaf Blower — In Conclusion
The choice of buying a gas or electric leaf blower depends on your gardening requirements. Most homeowners find that a good-quality corded leaf blower is ideal for clearing small to medium-sized residential yards. In addition, using a leaf blower takes away much of the laborious work when trying to clear leaves in the fall.