Garden & Lawn

6 Best Leaf Blower Vacuums Compared & Reviewed Plus Mulching

Last updated on June 29th, 2021

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We all enjoy the four seasons of the year in one way or another. They give our landscape a different feel every time and gives us a backdrop to our memories. As much as we appreciate the seasons there are some landscaping issues that emerge. For instance, during autumn your grass is covered with falling leaves. At first they are cute but when they start disintegrating it becomes a brown mess. You can use a rake to get rid of the leaves and plant debris in your garden but it’ll takes ages to clear.

This is where a leaf blower vacuum comes in, air forced out of the nozzle’s unit pushes debris out of the way or sucks leaves up, turns them into mulch and collects them into a bag. This saves time and is more effective than a rake. As it is, the leaf blower has evolved into the units we know now powered by electricity or petrol.

To purchase the best leaf blower vacuum of your own is not difficult. Pay attention to the guide below so you know how to choose the best leaf blower vacuum that is suitable for you. We also have the best leaf blower mulcher reviews, which highlight the features of various models and recommendations.

If you are in a hurry we have highlighted our ‘Best Pick’ model below which is the Black + Decker 3000w Blower Vac. It is very impressive thanks to its larger 50-litre capacity giving you less time emptying and more vacuuming. There is an impressive 3000w motor and the incorporated high impact shredding with a shedding ratio of 16:1, variable speed control and its very nifty rake attachment.

BEST PICK

BLACK+DECKER 300w GW3050-GB Blower Vac
The Black + Decker Blower Vac comes with variable speed control, and with a maximum blowing speed of 418km/hr you will have all your fallen leaves cleared in no time at all. Equipped with a powerful 3000w motor that generates enough power to tackle debris and even wet leaves.

The best leaf blower vacuums which we have included in our review are listed below:

  1. BLACK+DECKER GW3050-GB 3000W Blower Vacuum – BEST PICK
  2. Bosch ALS 2500 Electric Garden Blower and Vacuum
  3. WORX WG505E 3000W Trivac Garden Blower Mulcher and Vacuum
  4. Draper 3000W 3-in-1 Garden Vacuum, Leaf Blower and Mulcher
  5. McCulloch GBV345 Garden Blower and Vacuum -BEST PETROL PICK
  6. Draper 39087 30 cc Petrol Vacuum, Blower and Mulcher

Below you will find our reviews for the Top 6 models we would recommend. After hours of research, we have whittled the best models down from over 20 models down to 6.

They include four electric leaf blowers that we feel go above and beyond in terms of performance, quality of the leaf blowers and value for money. We also have two petrol leaf blowers which are very impressive and are great for larger gardens.

Following our detailed reviews, we then have a full buyer’s guide to help you decide which model may be best for you and a conclusion featuring some of our best models overall including our ‘Best Pick’.


BEST PETROL PICK

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The Top 6 Leaf Blower Vacuum Reviews

1. Black + Decker 3000w GW3050-GB Blower Vacuum

BEST PICK

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Black & Decker GW3050-GB 3000W Blower Vac

The BLACK+DECKER GW3050-GB Blower Vacuum features a very powerful 3000W motor that ensures the easy removal of even the toughest garden debris and wet leaves. The best part is that it has a rake attachment that helps in removing wet leaves and debris from your lawn or path which makes the vacuum feature much more effective where other models fail. In addition, there’s a high impact metal shredder that reduces the volume of your leaves at an impressive ratio of 16:1 thus speeding composting and allowing for easy disposal. The tool includes a leaf collection system which saves the time of repeatedly emptying the bag.

This leaf blower vacuum has 30% more suction power than some of the other models we have researched and this allows for high vacuuming of leaves and debris in a much faster period of time.

We also love the large 50L collection bag, this is also larger than some of the other models we have reviewed. The vacuumed leaves and debris are carried in large amounts and minimises the need for frequent emptying, making it ideal for larger gardens or for areas with a large number of leaves to clean up. Also, the tool features adjustable handle positioning which is handy, as well as a cushioned carry strap for maximized comfort during application. It is surprising how many of the straps on some models dig into your shoulder.

Another cool feature we found very useful is the variable speed dial that allows you to match the power required to the task you are handling, and a modern durable metal fan that increases airflow and mulching capability. This fan also reduces noise levels thus ensuring low noise pollution to your home and even your surrounding neighbours.

Pros

  • Comes with a powerful 3000w motor power that ensures fast and thorough cleaning.
  • Includes a very large 50-litre leaf collection bag, which reduces the hassle of emptying the bag too often.
  • Includes a rake attachment which enhances easy removal of heavy and tough wet leaves and debris, now this is a very useful feature most models do not have.
  • Has a variable speed dial which helps in matching the power to the task.
  • Has a compact design that encourages easy handling of the tool and improves your comfort during operation.
  • A very durable and affordable tool perfect for small to large gardens.
  • 2-year warranty for full peace of mind but it is important to note that it does not cover professional use.

Cons

  • Very noisy for an electric model, so ear defenders are recommended but this is the price you pay for that extra power.

Specifications

  • Weight as blower and as vacuum: 3.7/4.9 kg
  • Blowing speed: 418 km/h
  • Volume Capacity: 50 Litres
  • Debris ratio when shredding – 16:1
  • Voltage: 240V
  • Wattage: 3000W
  • Dimensions: 39.5 x 63.4 x 26.7 cm

Our recommendation

The BLACK + DECKER GW3050-GB Blower Vac is an excellent leaf blowing vacuum that makes all your cleaning tasks much easier and quicker to perform thanks to its great features. A very impressive performance has helped it win our ‘Best Pick’ award which means we think it is the best choice for the majority of people with the Bosch 15000 leaf vacuum coming in at a very close second. 

We love its ability to handle the toughest debris and its shredding ratio of 16:1 only ensures that you have the finest material ready for composting which we think is a big plus. We think the metal shredder is much better than the plastic shredder blades you see fitted to come, models, as these can be easily damaged.

If you like having control over your tool, then you’ll appreciate the variable speed control. This feature helps you match power to the application which is an excellent addition to the vacuum and it is surprising how often you will use it.

The only downside we could find is the high noise level (which can be quite noisy compared to come models), especially for an electric model. Make sure you invest in ear defenders when ordering this model. Apart from that, a great tool at an affordable price and it comes with a very reasonable 2-year warranty, just remember it does not cover trade use. Nearly forgot, the rake attachment is also a great feature and the large 50-litre bag is a big advantage for those with larger gardens.

Overall we are very impressed with this model and it was hard to choose between the Black + Decker and the Bosch model, but after much debate, we think the Black + Decker has the edge and is worth the extra investment thanks to its better suction, larger collection bag and better 16:1 shredding ratio.

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2. Bosch ALS 2500 Electric Garden Blower and Vacuum

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Bosch ALS 2500 Electric Garden Blower/ Vacuum

The Bosch ALS 2500 Blower & Vacuum is a versatile electric garden vacuum, capable of cleaning up your backyard, driveways and anywhere you want to clear leaves and it’s perfect for smaller gardens.

Just like our Best Pick, this model from Bosch has impressive features suitable for its application. As you would expect it is a dual settings tool that features two different modes which can be quickly and easily selected for respective applications. These modes are (obviously) the leaf blower function and garden vacuum function. You can switch between the two by just replacing the vacuum tube and your collection bag with the blower tube to suit your gardening needs, it takes around a minute and proves very easy to do.

Although it is not as big as the one on our Best Pick (by Black + Decker), the collection bag is of good size, offering a capacity of 45 litres so only 5 litres smaller in terms of capacity. This volume capacity allows for holding large quantities of shredded leaves and other lightweight waste material to the compost heap in a few trips. Also, it is made from a waterproof material that makes it ideal and reliable to collect wet and sticky leaves efficiently.

With a 2500W motor and 800m3/hr, the volume flow rate is not as powerful as the Black + Decker models, however, the electric garden blower ensures you do get to clean a large area with minimum effort. It delivers a powerful performance with a blower application that has a variable speed of up to 300 km/hr which again is not quite as good as the Black + Decker model, you can now start to see why the Black + Decker Leaf Vacuum is better.

Being a multi-functional tool in vacuum, shredder and blower, the Bosch ALS 2500 model features a 10:1 shredding ratio which assists in compacting the leaves in the collection bag. By so doing, it ensures fast clearing and creates materials that are optimal for use as compost in your garden. Are you looking for a good compost tumbler? If so, we have some recommendations here

The Bosch ALS 2500 Electric Garden Blower and Vacuum are lightweight and compact for easy transportation and storage which is here it does beat our ‘Best Pick’ as it is lighter. The tool can be easily dismantled and the blower parts zipped up into the collection bag so as to keep everything in a compact and tidy manner which is a great idea.

Also, in order to reduce strain on your back and arms whilst using it, the tool is lightweight in both of its modes; it weighs 3.2 Kg in blower mode and weighs 4.4 Kg in vacuum mode. Additionally, it has an adjustable handle and padded shoulder strap for enhanced comfort.

Pros

  • Has shredder function that easily condenses waste into ideal material for composting process.
  • Fitted with a powerful 2500w motor for effective working thus keeping your garden or backyard always neat and tidy.
  • Clears a large area within the shortest time, thus saving you hours for other activities.
  • Has an adjustable handle and padded shoulder strap for fatigue-free working.
  • Boasts a 10:1 shredding ratio, which ensures mess reduction by effective compacting of the leaves in a collection bag.
  • Has a large collection bag for maximum cleaning of the lawn.
  • Comes with 3 years warranty when you register online for full peace of mind.

Cons

  • This tool has a plastic blade and not a metal blade, hence the durability of the tool is a little concerning and overuse may wear out the blade faster than a metal blade would.

Specifications

  • Item Weight: 3.2 Kg in blower mode & 4.4 Kg in vacuum mode 
  • Large 45 Litre collection bag
  • Variable speed control: 280 – 300 km/h
  • Leaf shredding ratio: 10:1
  • List Voltage: 240V
  • Powerful 2500W motor
  • Dimensions: 0.5 x 0.3 x 0.4 cm

Our recommendation

The Bosch ALS 2500 is a powerful electric garden vacuum and blower and is better suited to cleaning small areas and was a very close second to our best pick and is one of the lightest models we have seen.

It not only helps in collecting leaves but also condenses the waste material to ensure it’s ready for composting. This vacuum has a slightly larger shredding ratio than the Black + Decker Leaf Blower.

This leaf blower vacuum is one of the most affordable models on the market and it offers real value. We think it could’ve been better with a metal blade, unlike the installed plastic blade that does let it down a bit. In any case, if you are looking for a budget leaf blower, this one does the job and is an excellent choice and the 3 years warranty should offer peace of mind, just don’t forget to register online as it only comes with 2 years as standard without registering it online.

Overall it does have plenty of power thanks to its 2500w motor and is one of the lightest models available whilst still retaining its build quality and features. If you have a small garden to maintain, this could be the best option for you. If you have a medium or larger garden it is well worth investing a little more in the Black + Decker model unless you looking for a petrol model which we review two fantastic models further down.

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3. Worx WG505E 3000w Trivac Garden Blower, Mulcher and Vacuum

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WORX WG505E 3000W Trivac Garden Blower Mulcher and Vacuum Garden for Clearing Patios of Leaves and Other Waste, Black, 10 m Cable

The WORX WG505E 3000W Trivac Garden Blower Mulcher and Vacuum is a compact and lightweight tool featuring 3-in-1 functionality. It is very quick to assemble and easy to use and what makes this model different from most other models is that it uses the same tube for blowing and vacuuming. You simply turn a lever to switch between blow and vacuuming and clip on the bag, a much easier job than changing the tube.

The tool has a patented angled nose design and a comfortable handle design which allows easy operation when clearing up leaves. With a powerful 3000W motor, it is capable of cleaning the lawn within the shortest time and is a contender to our ‘Best Pick. Also, this powerful motor produces enough suction power to vacuum 63 litres of dry leaves in 60 seconds which is impressive and although the bag is clearly large, we could not find the size in litres but it looks around 55-60 litres.

What we really like is how you switch between blower and vacuum, (as we have already mentioned) simply turn the lever. Blower mode allows you to blow away debris at up to 338 km/h (210mph) whilst vacuum mode collects dry leaves up to 63 litres per minute. The motor runs at about 70 decibels, which isn’t too loud. This model also has variable speed control.

Being a 3-in-1 function tool, the WORX WG505E 3000W Trivac can blow all your leaves into a pile, collect them in a flick of a switch and mulch them in no time. There’s an adjustable air regulator which allows you to reduce the airflow speed when you are working around weak or delicate plants.

The tool has an impressive 16:1 mulch ratio that makes it quick to work even when you are dealing with large tasks. When the tool is in vacuum mode, it turns large amounts of dry leaves into mulch instantly before collecting them in the bag. It also comes with a collection bag designed with a shoulder strap to provide extra support. We have actually seen a situation where someone had attached a hose to the vacuum outlet so they could collect the leaves in a bin.

The mulch produced is ideal for compost piles or ground cover in your garden or making leaf mould. Another impressive feature is the high-grade metal impeller blade, which is very durable, unlike plastic options. The tool also features 7-speed settings which help blow away leaves effectively and give you more control.

Pros

  • A very versatile tool that has 3 in 1 functions in blower, mulcher and vacuum.
  • Uses the same tube for both blowing and vacuuming and has a simple lever to switch between the two.
  • Has 16:1 mulching ratio for maximum reduction of your lawn or backyard waste.
  • Equipped with a standard metal impeller blade that provides robust performance and a high mulching rate.
  • A lightweight tool that you can handle with one hand.
  • Has a compact design for easy cleaning, transportation and storage.
  • Has a patented angled nose design, which gives complete control of blowing or vacuuming direction.
  • Comes with a powerful motor that delivers first-class performance.
  • 3 years warranty for full peace of mind.

Cons

  • We found some report of the zips becoming faulty in the collection bag so it is worth checking when you receive yours.

Specifications

  • Item Weight: 4.4 Kg
  • Volume Capacity: 63 Litres
  • Leaf shedding ratio – 16:1
  • Voltage: 240V
  • Powerful 3000W motor
  • Dimensions: 54 x 25.6 x 39.8 cm

Our recommendation

The WORX WG505E 3000W Trivac Garden Blower Mulcher and Vacuum is a very effective and efficient leaf blower vacuum and a great alternative to our Best Pick. The fact that it incorporates blower, mulcher and vacuum functions make it an extremely versatile tool for most garden cleaning tasks.

We also like the 7-speed settings for optimal control over performance. Being compact and lightweight, you’ll find it very easy to handle and store. With its impressive features, the price is good for what you get, especially with its metal impeller blade that is very durable.

We also like that it is just one tube and a simple lever to switch between blowing and vacuuming, a great idea that some of the other brands should take note of.

Overall a great alternative to our ‘Best Pick’ and one that makes switching between blowing and vacuuming very simple.

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4. Draper 3000w 3-in-1 Garden Vacuum, Leaf Blower and Mulcher

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Draper 3000W 3 in 1 Garden Vacuum, Leaf Blower and Shredder Mulcher with Large 35 Litre Collection Bag and Extra Long 12m Cable

The Draper 3000W 3-in-1 Garden Vacuum, Leaf Blower and Mulcher is a budget powerful leaf vacuum that is ideal for clearing up fallen leaves and debris from small gardens.

The tool features a 3000W motor that produces sufficient power to clean a wide range of outdoor areas including paths, driveways, deckings and your lawn. A detachable 35L collection bag collects all the waste leaves and debris but is a smaller size compared to other models that we have reviewed which have 45-50 litre collection bags.

This tool also features two front wheels that allow easy mobility during operations and a handy shoulder strap that enables carrying the tool and moving with it around your garden as you clean. It is also easy to switch from vacuuming to blowing mode, so you can multitask quickly in your garden.

Pros

  • Has a powerful 3000W motor that helps in tackling solid debris.
  • very lightweight at only 3.8kg and a long 10-meter power cable.
  • Comes with a medium-sized leaf collection bag that reduces the frequency of emptying the bag.
  • Very easy to move around with its two simple front wheels, so you don’t have to always carry it.
  • Has a handy shoulder strap for easy movement around the garden whilst using the machine.
  • Compact and lightweight, so it doesn’t cause fatigue even when used for extended periods.
  • 1-year warranty for full peace of mind against manufacturing defects.

Cons

  • Vacuum power could be better and collection bag is a little small.

Specifications

  • Item Weight: 3.8 Kg
  • Volume Capacity: 35 Litres
  • Voltage: 240V
  • Wattage: 3000W
  • Cable Length: 10 Metres
  • Dimensions: 44.5 x 22 x 32 cm

Our recommendation

The Draper 3000W 3-in-1 Garden Vacuum, Leaf Blower and Mulcher is a simple and affordable leaf vacuum for smaller gardens and those on a budget looking for a reasonable model for smaller tasks.

It has a decent cable length and the power is outstanding for such a light machine, however, for a 3000w model it seems to lack the suction you might expect.

If you want a decent leaf vacuum without spending a lot on it, this Draper model is an excellent pick but bear in mind that the collection bag is also smaller than most other models.

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The Top 2 Petrol Leaf Blower Vacuum

5. McCulloch GBV345 Garden Blower and Vacuum

BEST PETROL PICK

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The McCulloch GBV345 Garden Blower and Vacuum is a powerful multi-function petrol blower/vacuum powered by a 25cc 2 stroke engine which is ideal for blowing leaves and debris as well as mulching and vacuuming leaves. With high standard features, the 3 in 1 machine is ideal for blowing, vacuuming and mulching all with the freedom to use anywhere without having to worry about power cables.

For increased efficiency in the application, the tool has an impressive blowing power of 345 km/hr (215mph). This speed is very sufficient to deal with even tough wet leaves and litter that has stuck deep on the grass. Intuitive controls with soft start technology allow you to start the machine with ease as the pressure from the pull cord is reduced whilst a soft-grip handle ensures maximum comfort when handling the tool.

The McCulloch GBV345 garden blower and vacuum blow leaves and garden debris into a neat pile in no time with its high blowing power. Also, the machine comes equipped with an easy to change tube attachment for easy and quick assembling, and a cleverly designed flare nozzle for concentrated and increased blowing power which is very effective.

This model is petrol powered and is fitted with a 25cc – 2 stroke engine which is very reliable and easy to start. It is very effective in that it has a mulch ratio of 16:1 which is pretty standard for petrol models. The integrated leaf shredder ensures effective leaf reduction whilst mulching which ensures longer running times. Finally, it comes with a 45L capacity collection bag which is not the biggest we have seen more more than suitable for the size of the machine.

Pros

  • Has soft start technology for easier starting of the tool and reducing start resistance when pulling the pull cord by up to 40% when compared to other models.
  • Very versatile tool with 3-in-1 functions; blower, mulcher and vacuum.
  • Easy to use and assemble with attaching tube and flare nozzle for better blowing power.
  • Has an ergonomic design with a soft-grip handle for increased comfort which ensures it is comfortable to use even for longer periods of time.
  • Has a durable construction, which ensures you’ll get the most out of your investment.
  • Comes with a 1 Year Guarantee for full peace of mind.

Cons

  • Has a plastic mulching impeller blade which can wear out easily if it hits hard surfaces like stones.
  • The unit is quite heavy, so it’s best not to use it for prolonged periods.

Specifications

  • Item Weight: 4.4 Kg
  • Volume Capacity: 45 Litres
  • Mulching ratio: 16/1
  • Power Source: Petrol
  • Fuel tank capacity: 0.54l 
  • Dimensions: 57.1 x 28.5 x 40.6 cm

Our recommendation

The McCulloch GBV345 Garden Blower and Vacuum is a petrol model that’ll be ideal to use in a range of situations from clearing a lot of leaves from around the garden to clearing litter from car parks or similar.

We have used a lot of petrol garden tools over the years such as chainsaws, hedge trimmers, lawnmowers and we really did appreciate the soft-start function which works amazingly well on this leaf blower. The cord is a lot easier to pull than some of the tools we have used in the past.

We also like the adjustable blowing speed which allows the machine to gain blowing speed gently up to a max of 345km/hr which is higher than any electric model we have reviewed. 

Something else we noticed was how light it actually is. we expected it to be heavier than it is. Performance-wise, you will have no trouble shifting even the biggest pile of wet leaves. It would benefit from a slightly larger bag but other than this we really could not fault this leaf blower/vacuum. The vacuum function is also impressive and has plenty of suction and the mulcher also does a great job.

Overall this is probably one of the best petrol leaf vacuums we have seen which is not only very well made but also very affordable and within most people’s budgets. Honestly, I would not go for a cheaper model as I’m sure you would not get the same quality and performance that you get with this model.

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6. Draper 39087 30cc Petrol Vacuum, Blower and Mulcher

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Draper 39087 30 cc Petrol Vacuum, Blower and Mulcher

The Draper 39087 30cc Petrol Vacuum, Blower and Mulcher is a reliable tool that gives you the power to vacuum, blow and mulch a decent quantity of leaves and is part of the Draper Expert range that is designed to handle the pressures of professional and trade use. The tool has an ergonomic handle with a soft grip insert which allows you to handle the machine with maximum comfort. It comes with a 2 stroke petrol engine that generates sufficient power for clearing tasks. The tool features a variable airflow rate with a speed of 60km/hr, enough for blowing tough and wet leaves from your garden.

With a convenient ‘vacuum to blow’ control lever, the machine has the capacity to collect grass cuttings and fallen leaves in no time and mulch them at a ratio of 10:1 which is okay but not the best of ratios as some mulch at 16:1. The Draper 39087 comes with a 40L capacity collection bag that helps in transporting waste to the compost bin in very few trips. Also, this allows you to save time and effort whilst doing a wide range of work.

The Draper 39087 30cc Petrol Vacuum, Blower and Mulcher have a simple design, which makes for easy assembling, handling and storage of the tool. There’s a front support handle and an adjustable shoulder strap that allows you to move with the tool freely in your garden whilst working, while a support wheel enhances the easy mobility of the machine.

When using the tool, a lot of caution is required. It is advisable that you don’t try to change the lever from blow to vacuum action when the machine is still running to avoid debris trapping as the lever could snap off. 

Pros

  • Equipped with a powerful 30cc – 2 stroke petrol engine that produces enough power for your blowing tasks and good suction performance.
  • Part of the Draper Expert range so is designed for professional and trade use.
  • Easy to use with great comfort due to its ergonomic handle with soft grip insert.
  • Easy to move around thanks to its unique support wheel.
  • Very versatile and reliable with its 3 in 1 functions – blower, vacuum and mulcher.
  • Faster and effective operations due to its variable airflow setting, which ensures high blowing speed.
  • Comes with a shoulder strap that encourages moving around the garden with the tool.
  • Has a front support handle that reduces fatigue whilst using the tool.

Cons

  • This model is quite expensive and heavy.

Specifications

  • Item Weight: 7.3 Kg
  • Volume Capacity: 40 Litres
  • Power Source: Petrol
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.5 Litres
  • Engine Capacity: 30cc – 2 stroke
  • Engine Speed: 7300-8500r/min max.
  • Blow Volume: 10M³/min
  • Extraction Volume: 10M³/min
  • Dimensions: 48.8 x 37.3 x 55.1 cm

Our recommendation

With an expert build quality, the Draper 39087 30 cc Petrol Vacuum, Blower and Mulcher is a top product to consider if you are looking for a good robust petrol leaf blower vacuum. 

This model is easy to set up and it’s accompanied by useful features. A shoulder strap, unique wheel support and front support handle are such examples that can make your job a lot easier. Despite being an expensive model, the tool is very versatile and reliable.

Now for the downsides, firstly weight, it’s heavy and is probably a little too bulky. Overall though it is a great example of a good petrol leaf blower and vac combi. If you want to invest in one, don’t wait too long though as it’s now been discontinued and replaced with a cheaper model which is not as good but this version was still available on Amazon.co.uk when we did our review.

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Leaf Blower Vacuum Buyer’s Guide

When looking for a leaf blower vacuum you have to consider a few factors. These factors will affect your general interaction with the tool and the environment around it. Apart from factors like pricing and size, a wise buyer has to understand the various models he/she can get on the market. You find that incorrect research may lead to the purchase of unfit goods. It is only prudent to identify with some products features. Here is what to consider:

Source of power

  • Petrol powered –  When it comes to leaf blowers you have a choice as to the source of energy being used. On the market, you will find mostly two variations. Petrol powered or electric leaf blowers. In general, the petrol models offer more power than the wired electric or cordless battery-powered alternatives. You can select between a 2 stroke and 4 stroke engine depending on the scale of work but most models are generally 2 strokes, meaning you need to mix the petrol and oil correctly. They tend to be used on large scale work as they let the operator move unencumbered by electric cords. Regular motor maintenance should be observed with is the downside to electric models which are nearly maintenance-free. We have reviewed a range of petrol leaf blowers which you can read here
  • Electric powered – corded and cordless – The other models are electricity-based. You can decide as to whether to use the cordless or corded models. The corded models work well but they are limited to certain areas due to the length of the cord but for most gardens are more than adequate. The cordless leaf blowers use lithium-ion batteries and are therefore preferred for their lightweight and manoeuvrability. They are not as powerful as the petrol models but they are handy for small jobs. Remember that the higher the voltage and amp-hours (Ah) the longer you will be able to use the tool, the downside to these is run time as you either have to wait for batteries to charge or have a spare battery handy. 

Weight and size

The scale of work to be conducted will affect the size of the unit. If indeed you are searching for a home unit you need to find one that is not too big or too heavy. You will find units that you can mount on your back to provide better weight distribution. You will be using these units for extended periods you might as well ensure that you are comfortable. Even with the collection bags full, the unit has to be balanced. Electric and corded models tend to be the lightest and the perfect choice for small to medium-sized gardens while petrol models can be heavy there are becoming lighter with the latest designs but some models are heavy, especially when compared to some electric models so could be difficult to use for some people.

Most people would be better going for an electric corded model or perhaps a cordless electric model if your budget will stretch.

Look at the modes and speeds

Speed control can be a very useful feature and one our Best Pick by Black + Decker incorporates. It helps you keep the leaves from blowing everywhere and gives you more control. Large piles of leaves will need more wind speed to get rid of them. Small loads don’t need as much power. Look for units with variable speeds as it is a very handy feature and one you don’t appreciate until you actually have this feature to use.

Together with variable speed comes modes of use. You have the blower and vacuum function. You should be able to switch between the two functions without necessarily using tools or taking too much time. A switch will make matters easier for you. Even when attaching the bags, the interface should be easy to use which is not always the case.

All about the nozzle, CFM and MPH – KM/hr

The nozzle diameter and shape will affect the CFM and MPH. The CFM refers to the cubic feet per minute. It basically measures the rate of air moved by the blower. The higher the CFM the faster more leaves shall be blown away. The MPH refers to miles per hour. It basically measures the wind speed emitted from the unit. A flat nozzle will produce a low CFM but high MPH. The round nozzle will produce a high CFM but low MPH. Depending on the scale of work select accordingly. Obviously for the vacuum feature, the wider the nozzle the better but most models come with a separate nozzle for vacuuming.

Noise level and reduction levels

The rate of mulching will affect the rate of collection. The higher the ratio the more you are likely to collect. You will find different models with different ratios that can be used for mulch applications. For example, a ratio of 10:1 or 16:1 would benefit those in the need of mulching for their gardens. We found the higher the ratio the more you can collect as it compacts better into the collection bag.

The decibel level of a unit indicates how high the noise level is. Models that use petrol tend to have higher noise levels than the electric models although some of the more powerful electric models can also be very noisy. In general, more power equals more noise.

Ease of use

The overall interaction with the unit has to be simple so that any person can manage it, especially those with no experience. If there are any knobs or switches make certain that they are not too stiff to move when needed. The carriage straps should be comfortable so that the weight of the machine does not dig into the shoulder. If it is a handheld model, the handles have to be comfortable and well-positioned to balance the weight.

Price

Different units will present themselves at different prices depending on the power, brand and features present. The quality of the unit should also be factored in. As a buyer, you can compare different units on the market and seek the one with the most value. The best leaf blower vacuum for your needs is never lacking on the market, it just depends on the budget you are running with.

Warranty

Always check the warranty and bear in mind that if you plan on using it for trade or professional use, then the warranty could be invalid. Most good models will come with a 2 or 3 years warranty. If the warranty is only one year then you have to ask yourself why. However, most petrol models come with only one year warranty as standard but this is because the user could damage the motor with incorrect use or maintenance, and the manufacturers know this.


Final Conclusion

Many have bought tools that they never use simply because they were uninformed. We hope that the information above will help you avoid that situation. You can also read other leaf blower vacuum mulcher reviews to compare possible purchases.

The BLACK+DECKER GW3050-GB Blower Vac, 3000W is the best leaf blower vacuum in our opinion. Unlike other models, this machine has the highest blowing speed – 418Km/hr, a very powerful motor that delivers 3000W power output and an impressive 16:1 mulching ratio. With a vibrations reduction fan, the noise would never be an issue whilst using this model.

A rake attachment is available to give you an easy job of removing tough debris from the lawn. Some outstanding features of this model are the 30% increased suction power and a leaf collection system. In closing, this leaf blower is time-saving and will clear a large lawn within the shortest time possible.

The McCulloch GBV345 Garden Blower and Vacuum is the best petrol leaf blower vacuum. Below are a few pointers that helped us to reach our decision.

  • Has soft start technology for easier starting of the tool and reducing start resistance when pulling the pull cord by up to 40% when compared to other models.
  • Very versatile tool with 3-in-1 functions; blower, mulcher and vacuum.
  • Easy to use and assemble with attaching tube and flare nozzle for better blowing power.
  • Has an ergonomic design with a soft-grip handle for increased comfort which ensures it is comfortable to use even for longer periods of time.
  • Has a durable construction, which ensures you’ll get the most out of your investment.
  • Comes with a 1 Year Guarantee for full peace of mind.

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Last update on 2024-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Welcome to my site, my name is John and I have been lucky enough to work in horticultural nurseries for over 15 years in the UK. As the founder and editor as well as researcher, I have a City & Guilds Horticultural Qualifications which I proudly display on our About us page. I now work full time on this website where I review the very best gardening products and tools and write reliable gardening guides. Behind this site is an actual real person who has worked and has experience with the types of products we review as well as years of knowledge on the topics we cover from actual experience. You can reach out to me at john@pyracantha.co.uk

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