Backpack Leaf Blower vs Handheld

We all know the scene: when you get to that time of year where the garden needs attention, and you don’t know where to start! After the fall and the winter months, the spring heralds the return of warmer weather, and that’s when we all start getting out in the garden. But, there’s simply so much to do! One of the most troublesome problems is dealing with the debris that amasses when you have trees. You may have fallen branches and twigs that have been brought down in storms, but what you definitely will have is a lot of leaves!

Leaves gather in corners where the wind takes them, and if you want to clear them with a broom, it can be tiring and time-consuming. What’s the answer? A leaf blower is the best way to clear a mass of leaves from your outdoor spaces, and it can be a great addition to your garden tools. But, there is more than one type of leaf blower, and that’s what we’re here to talk about. Before we go on to look at the difference between a handheld leaf blower and a backpack version we thought we’d help you get started with this handy guide to the most essential spring gardening tips for this time of year! So, about leaf blowers – let’s have a look at them!

What is a Leaf Blower?

You may have seen – or even used – a leaf blower. Basically, it is a machine that consists of a motor, usually gas or electric powered, which powers a turbine. This turbine creates wind that is blown down a long tube. You direct the tube at the leaves, and it drives them to a point where they are easy to collect and dispose of. How you get rid of them is up to you. Many people burn leaves, others bag them up and take them to a disposal point, and some put them on the compost heap. The point is that it’s much easier with a leaf blower, so what type do you need?

Which is Best?

The most commonly seen type of leaf blower is the handheld model. These tend to be powered either by a very small gas engine or an electric motor. They are designed to be as light as possible and portable and are easy to use in and around small to medium-sized gardens and yards. There are more powerful handheld models that can be effective in bigger spaces, too. 

The handheld blower of the electric type are often powered by rechargeable batteries. This adds to the convenience as it means they can be used everywhere. However, for many people – and for those who use a leaf blower regularly and for long periods – the backpack model is one that is fast becoming the preferred choice, and there’s a good reason for this.

When you are using a handheld blower, you are supporting the entire device – including the heavy and bulky motor and all of the construction – in your hands. Now, the machine may be designed to be as light as possible, but it is still going to be of a certain weight. Holding and using it for a long time is not, therefore, going to be possible. 

With a backpack model, you do away instantly with the weight problem. How is that possible? 

Why Choose a Backpack

We all know how much easier it is to carry a load on a supported backpack than in a handheld bag. The same is true when it comes to leaf blowers. The backpack element holds the motor and fuel – should it be gas-powered – and also the main body of the machine. Therefore, the majority of the weight is supported on your back, by the straps on your shoulders.

All you have to hold is the actual pipe that delivers the blow. This makes things far easier, especially if you have a larger yard. If you want more detailed information, click here for reviews of the best backpack models, and you’ll see what we mean by added convenience. 

We recommend that you look carefully at both types of a leaf blower as there is certain to be one that suits your requirements, and that will help you have a tidy garden in no time at all.