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Leaf Blower Maintenance Tips
Specific aspects of leaf blower maintenance may differ between models. This article covers general practices. Be sure to read the documentation that came with your leaf blower before starting to work on it. The documentation might also include a maintenance schedule. Be sure to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and remember to contact the manufacturer with any concerns or questions.
In general, follow these tips when it's time for leaf blower maintenance:
- Make sure you have plenty of space to work with before you begin servicing your leaf blower. You'll need a well-ventilated area if you have a gasoline-powered leaf blower. Use a drop cloth in your work area to make cleanup easier.
- Turn your leaf blower off and let all moving parts come to a stop before performing any maintenance, cleaning or inspections.
- Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug on a gasoline-powered leaf blower. Disconnect an electric leaf blower from its power supply. Follow any pre-maintenance procedures the manufacturer specifies.
- Be careful handling a blower that's been running. The blower engine or motor may be hot.
- Don't operate a gasoline-powered leaf blower indoors or in an area that doesn't have proper ventilation.
- Be sure to follow any leaf blower safety instructions while operating your machine to avoid injury or unnecessary repairs.
How Long Should a Leaf Blower Last?
When maintained properly, leaf blowers can last for 10 years or more. Typically, electric leaf blowers last longer than their gas counterparts, but you can enjoy many years of use for both types of leaf blowers. Check our guide — Find the Best Leaf Blower for Your Yard for more tips and considerations.
How Often Should I Service my Leaf Blower?
How often you service your leaf blower depends on what type you have. Gas leaf blowers require monthly maintenance to ensure the air filter and fuel lines are clear. If you use an electric leaf blower, you'll want to clean out the debris after every use and, in the case of rechargeable models, keep the battery charged in between uses.
Do Leaf Blowers Need Tune-Ups?
Yes, regular tune-ups are necessary to keep your leaf blower in good operating condition. Both gas and electric leaf blowers require maintenance, but different tune-ups are needed depending on the leaf blower you use.
Does a Leaf Blower Need Engine Oil?
Gas leaf blowers with 4-cycle engines need engine oil that you will need to change regularly to ensure the blower operates properly. 2-cycle leaf blowers are more common and use a mixture of oil and fuel, do they don't require oil changes.
Gas Blowers: General Maintenance
If your blower is not functioning properly after following general maintenance procedures, consider getting your machine repaired by a professional.
Gas Blowers: Change the Oil (4-Cycle Engines)
Changing the oil is a key step to help keep your leaf blower's engine running efficiently.
Electric Blowers: Cleaning and Battery Care
One of the benefits of electric leaf blowers is that they need less maintenance than gas models. However, there are a few things you can do to keep your corded or cordless blower in top working order.
Storing Your Leaf Blower
Don't overlook the importance of storing your leaf blower properly, particularly at the end of the season.
- Allow the blower to cool before storing it.
- Store the leaf blower in a dry, well-ventilated place to ensure fumes don't come into contact with sparks or open flames.
- Make sure the leaf blower is out of the reach of children.
- Manufacturers might recommend draining the fuel system or running it dry before storage, or they may specify storing the blower with the tank full of fuel mixed with a fuel stabilizer for long-term storage. If you drain the fuel, contact your local recycling center for disposal instructions and dispose of the fuel properly.