It’s easy to get blown away by the wide range of leaf blower vacuums available. It’s one of those rare cases where you want a machine that sucks the most. I’ve compiled a list of some of the best leaf blower vacuum mulchers currently available in the UK.
1. Whether you’re a professional landscaper or just a homeowner looking for a cheap, convenient way to keep the yard straight, the Handy THEV 3000 Leaf Blower/Vacuum offers the best electric push model.
2. Looking for a small, compact, low powered option for those lighter outdoor tasks and even a few indoor cleaning jobs? How about the ALB 18 LI Cordless Leaf Blower from Bosch?
3. For the serious worker who doesn’t mind sacrificing a bit of fuel for raw undiluted blowing and vacuuming power, then the Makita BHX25014 stroke Petrol Leaf Blower is the type of beast you want.
Leaf Blower Vacuum Mulcher Buying Guide
You gotta love Autumn, I think it’s the most beautiful season ever. But while everyone else is still fascinated by the magical vibrancy of nature, most homeowners are raving mad due to piles and piles of leaves in the yard.
If you want to clean up the lawn without having to follow the rank, bag and pile em’ ritual, you’ll need a multi tool built for the job.
A leaf blower vacuum mulcher helps clear up debris by vacuuming all those fallen leaves and then slicing or compressing them up into smaller bits. This creates a mulch that can be easily disposed of or used as compost for the garden. These machines come in different sizes, shapes and types including:
Types of Leaf Blowers/ Vacuum Mulchers
- Electric models – These require plugging in directly to a power source through a lengthy power cable. They are lighter, cleaner, quieter and require low maintenance.
- Gas/petrol powered – Gas powered leaf vacuums are renowned for their incredible power output and durability. Since there’s no power cords or batteries required, users can move about freely and work even further away from the house. However, these types are much heavier, noisier, and produce emissions.
- Battery powered mulchers can also be used in wider yards away from a power source. But while they’re more portable, they’re usually expensive and not s as powerful.
Key Features and Considerations When Buying an Leaf Blower Vacuum Mulcher
i) Size
When it comes to size, there are basically 2 main types of these machines; the ones you wear, and bigger ones that you push. Since most of them are worn with a shoulder strap, make sure you get one that is light and comfortable. And if you do opt for a push style mulcher, ensure that it isn’t a hassle to push.
ii) Power
Size and power are two different things. Even a small machine could blast around some massive air. So when choosing a unit, make sure you get enough of an MPH rating to blow stubborn leaves, twigs and branches away.
iii) Safety Features
Like all power tools, leaf blower/ vacuum mulchers also require extra care while operating. Having a few safety features on hand helps ensure safe operation all the time. So when shopping, make sure your machine has easy to use switches and other stabilising features.
iv) Additional Features
Again, like other power tools, not all leaf blower vacuums are made equal. Some will have speed control options while others offer unique assistance while working. Every model has something different to offer; it helps if you choose one with features that complement your particular yard work.
Best Leaf Blower Vacuum Mulcher Reviews
1. BEST ELECTRIC: Handy THEV 3000 Electric Leaf Blower/Vacuum
Pros
- Best electric leaf blower vacuum mulcher
- Lowest price range on the list
- Massive 40 litre collection bag means less emptying
Cons
- Mulcher tends to clog up quickly with wet grass and leaves
Overview
Like I said, there’s the type of leaf blowers that you carry, and then there’s the monsters that you push around. If you’re already in the market for an electric, corded machine, doesn’t it make more sense to get a large one that has wheels as well?
The Handy THEV 3000 Electric Leaf Blower and vacuum is the ultimate model for serious homeowners with a serious leaf problem.
The THEV makes use of a 3000 watt motor that not only delivers enough power to deal with common yard debris, but even comes with a variable speed function for more demanding tasks. The unit might be light, but it sure does punch above its weight. It blows, shreds, and vacuums at a decent ratio of 10: 1.
What It Does Best
I’ll tell you what the Handy THEV 3000 Electric Leaf Blower does best. It’s making homeowners pleased with their purchase right from day one. For a complete leaf blower vacuum mulcher with all the bells and whistles you need to do a professional job, this model is hands down the most affordable on the entire list.
Of course, that was expected given the fact that it’s electric and not batter operated. But I kid you not guys, the price is almost suspiciously low. I mean, keeping in mind that it has variable speed control, 10 metres of cable, a shoulder strap for extra support and those large wheels for ease of use and mobility of different terrain; it’s quite the bargain for home owners. Why, I’m glad you asked.
Flaws But Not Deal Breakers
That’s right, here’s where we find out why the Handy THEV 3000 is the cheapest machine on the entire list despite being a pretty well rounded piece of equipment. The first thing we immediately noticed was the cable length.
Sure, 10 metres isn’t all that bad, but it does pose restrictions for medium to large gardens. I mean, the damn unit as wheels for Pete’s sake! I think that implies an ability to blow, vacuum and mulch beyond a 10 metre radius.
Next, we tested the mulcher on wet, freshly mowed grass. It’s safe to say that you’ll be doing plenty of unclogging as your work if you’re vacuuming and mulching wet plant matter.
What Other Customers Think
Apart from those little flaws and weaknesses on the manufacturer’s side, most customers seemed thrilled with their purchase. Rarely do you find such a hard working, well rounded piece of gardening equipment that actually does what it promises, especially not at price ranges as low as this.
From the simple and straightforward assembly process all the way to extremely user friendly operation, many homeowners recommend the Handy Blower.
Should You Buy It?
Oh, there’s no question about it; you should definitely buy the Handy THEV 3000 Electric Leaf Blower now. It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional who will be using the unit every day or just a family man who wants a quick, cheap way to get the yard in order – this unit is versatile enough to suit everyone’s needs.
2. BEST CORDLESS: Bosch ALB 18 LI Cordless Leaf Blower
Pros
- Ideal for smaller yard jobs and indoor tasks
- Ultra light and compact design
- Battery works with all other Bosch range of blowers
Cons
- Overall output is weak for demanding jobs
Overview
We’ve been following Bosch around looking at some of their leaf blowers. Out of the two currently available cordless models, the Bosch ALB 18 LI Cordless Leaf Blower is the less powerful machine. Well, at least as powerful as it gets for a blower powered by an 18 volt battery.
Still, the cordless blower manages to amp up enough power to provide a variable speed of over 210 km/hr. Definitely more than enough pressure to blow or vacuum sticky, stubborn garden debris while not disturbing gravel and murram driveways. At only 1.8 kg, the unit is light enough not to strain your shoulder or arm during operation.
What It Does Best
I’ll be honest with you guys, the Bosch ALB 18 LI Cordless Leaf Blower is a joy to use due to its low weight. Combined with the low power output, you can barely feel the machine pushing your hand around too much. All of these features may be weaknesses for some leaf blowers, but they’re actually what makes the ALB unique.
That’s because they add up to make a convenient tool ideal for more than the occasional gardening task. See, the slightly lower power output makes the model well suited for indoor applications like dusting shelves and clearing cobwebs from basements and garages.
Flaws But Not Deal Breakers
I can sugar coat it all I want, but we owe it to our readers to give it to them like it is. So, let’s get to the real reason why you’re here which is to look for a leaf blower vacuum, not a dust blower. There’s no denying it; overall, the power output of the ALB 18 LI Cordless Blower is relatively weak.
But that’s expected considering that it’s a low powered machine. You’ll be likely to feel this reduced capacity when working with a wet lawn since the narrow nozzle just shoots air under clumps of leaves requiring more passes.
What Other Customers Think
Looking at what other customers had to say online, the comments pretty much reflect our little review here. Most people are first hit by how small the hand held vacuum blower is, and for good reason. But once they turned on the machine, the over 200 km/hr winds were more than enough to rake up a storm of dried leaves. Most homeowners definitely recommend having the blower for light tasks.
Should You Buy It?
You’ll have to agree with me; the Bosch ALB 18 LI falls particularly short of being a competent leaf vac. It doesn’t strike one as being quite powerful enough to make a quick job of large yards. If you have several shedding trees in your property, this blower may take a while to complete the job. But if you’re just planning to blast away some grass, leaves and dust from the patio and sparsely populated yard, then this model will serve fine.
3. BEST PETROL: Makita BHX2501 Petrol Leaf Blower
Pros
- Delivers more blowing and vacuuming power output
- Easy to start 4 stroke engine
- 2 part blower allows for easy storage
Cons
- On the higher end of the price range
Overview
Do you have an incredibly large property to cover? Will you be blowing leaves deep into remote areas? Or maybe you’re a professional gardener or landscaper looking for the appropriate tool of trade. If the answers to any of these questions is yes, then it’s obvious you need a gas powered tool.
The Makita BHX2501 Petrol Leaf Blower is alight, compact blower with a slim body that’s easy to carry with just one hand. This well balanced blower makes use of a powerful 24 cc 4 stroke engine with a diaphragm type carburettor for lower emissions.
Makita included a 2 part blower for easy storage as well as the ability to convert into a leaf vacuum for mulching.
What It Does Best
We all know hat the deal is with gas powered tool. You just can’t beat the power output, consistency and reliability of a petrol powered engine. So when it comes to sheer power output, the Makita BHX2501 4-Stroke Leaf Blower has all the other models here beat by a mile.
The 24.4cc engine takes all the hard work out of cleaning leaves, hedge trimmings and other garden debris by literally turning the unit into a practical broom. What’s more, the 4 stroke is easy to start up thanks to a mechanical decompression system which allows for easy recoil pulling.
Flaws But Not Deal Breakers
For once, I can confidently say that Makita has delivered a product truly worthy of a brand its size. The BHX2501 4-Stroke Leaf Blower is quite impressive on all angles, so it was kind of tough to point out the flaws.
However, there’s always something that the manufacturer could improve on. Now, keep in mind that some of these are just relative. Compared to some of my other gas powered tools, the BHX2501 really doesn’t go easy on the fuel. Seriously, this model is a potential gas guzzler and might be costly if you plan to use it regularly.
What Other Customers Think
Looking at some of the reviews online, it’s clear that most of the people who bought the BHX2501 did so for one of two reasons. For the homeowners, they just needed a tool that would let them work without restrictions and extensions.
For the professionals, it’s obvious why a gas powered model would come in handy. No power, no grid, no problem. However, some customers were concerned with the noise levels, but it’s nothing too serious.
Should You Buy It?
Just like the previous customers will tell you, it all depends on what kind of work you’re doing as well as how little restrictions you want. With gas powered models, high power levels are always a bonus. So if you don’t mind spending a bit on fuel to get raw, undiluted blowing and vacuuming power, then the Makita BHX25014 stroke Petrol Leaf Blower is the right package for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to use a leaf blower?
The first step is to work out what size and power you need your leaf blower to be. Do you have a big garden with lots of overhanging trees, that gets covered with fallen leaves in the autumn? Or do you have a small patch that just catches the odd drift of leaves?
If you have the former then you may benefit from a big, heavy duty leaf blower, and if the latter then a smaller version, even a corded one, will do the job just fine. Larger leaf blowers will bee more powerful, but they are also heavier, and more bulky and unwieldy.
When using your leaf blower, don’t try to simply blow all the leaves out of your garden – chances are the wind will bring them back, or if not you might get some nasty looks from your neighbours!
Blow the bulk of the leaves into big piles, which you can then remove with a tarpaulin or a wheelbarrow. You don’t have to chase around blowing every last leaf; you can rake up any stubborn ones.
Before you use your leaf blower:
- Wait for calm weather. There is nothing more frustrating than collecting up all your leaves and having the wind send them flying again.
- Make sure the leaves are as dry as possible. If the leaves are wet they will be heavier, and will also tend to stick to the things you are trying to blow them off.
- Work in one direction. Start at the bottom, or top, or side of your garden, and blow the leaves in sections in the same direction.
- Hold the blower by your side, pointing the blowing end at the ground at a shallow angle.
- Wear ear and eye protection. Leaf blowers can be quite noisy, so covering your ears will make it easier to bear, and the blowing action can send twigs, leaves and other garden debris flying, so wearing eye goggles is always a good idea.
Q: Why won’t my leaf blower start?
There are many reasons for this, and you don’t automatically need to replace your leaf blower.
- Check the spark plug. If the spark plug is damaged then your leaf blower won’t start – you’re looking for damage to the porcelain insulator, carbon build up at the electrode, or even the electrode being completely burned away. A new spark plug is cheap, easy to fit and considerably less hassle and money than a whole new leaf blower.
- Carburetor issues. If the carburetor is clogged (commonly caused by leaving fuel lying around in the leaf blower) then the leaf blower won’t be able to start. You can either replace it or buy a carburetor repair kit to sort out the problem.
- Fuel filter. The fuel filter can end up being blocked by leaving fuel in the leaf blower, which will prevent the leaf blower from working. You can easily replace the fuel filter to fix this problem.
- Air filter. A clogged air filter will make the engine get too much fuel and not enough air, which will prevent the engine from starting. Replacing the air filter is a quick and easy job.
- Problems with the starter mechanism. There are a lot of factors to a leaf blower’s starter function – from the recoil starter to the pulley to the spring. Your best bet is to take the whole thing apart, check for defective mechanisms and replace what doesn’t seem to be working.
- Ignition coil. The engine will not start without a functioning ignition coil, so check this with an ignition coil tester and replace it if it is defective.
As you can see, there are many reasons why your leaf blower may not work, and most of these reasons are not enough that you have to replace your blower. A little look into what may be the issue can save you hundreds in replacement fees.
Q: Where can you rent a leaf blower?
Many places will be able to rent you equipment if you just want to use it once, and don’t want to spend a lot of money to buy one. Ask around your local area, or go online to find your nearest rental place.
