With summertime here, that means that autumn is right around the corner. The trees will be changing their leaf color, then they will eventually fall to the ground and need to be picked up. What better way to help clean up those falling leaves than with a leaf blower? Traditionally, only landscapers would use the machines; however, in recent years, more and more devices are being made smaller so that the "average homeowner" can operate one. They have become lighter and more powerful, using gas, diesel, a mixture of gas and oil (called two-stroke), batteries, or electricity to power them.
Three types of blowers exist, and they include the backpack type, handheld, and "walk behind." Backpack leaf blowers are worn on the back while straps fit around the shoulders to keep the pack from falling. These blowers are best for medium or small jobs. They are run with gas or a mixture of fuel and can reach places others cannot come with a usually quite flexible nozzle, such as in tight spaces under steps.
Hand-held machines are the smallest and lightest of the three types and are usually battery or electric-powered, although some gas-powered models exist. These typically have a straight plastic hose, so it is not flexible enough to fit into all spaces. The hand-held electric or battery-powered machines have a limit as to how far they can reach, so using them for smaller jobs is recommended, like a small front yard or a short driveway.
A "walk-behind" machine is best for a home or business with a large area, such as a parking lot, large yard, or driveway to blow. This model typically runs on gas and has blow settings that vary in strength. Additionally, the nozzle can be angled in different directions, and the machine can be "driven" on sidewalks and driveways. Many have started to adapt smaller leaf blowers to other activities, such as blowing snow from steps and walkways.
Some varieties of the machines, called Schröder Leaf Blower, have bags attached to them so the user cannot only blow the leaves and other yard debris into a pile but can also vacuum them up into the bag as well. Additionally, the user could vacuum as he goes, picking up the leaves and debris along the way. It is a much easier way of doing yard work since no bending and lifting can cause injuries.
