There’s no better way to do yard work than using the best gas powered leaf blower. The right machine helps you collect leaves and debris in no time, helping you keep your lawn looking great all-year-round.
To find the right gas powered leaf blower, you have to know what to look for. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know to make the best choice for your yard.
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Gas Powered Vs. Electric Leaf Blower
If you’re shopping for a leaf blower, there are two main types to choose from: gas and electric.
You might be tempted by an electric leaf blower because they tend to be more affordable, but there are a lot of things to consider other than the sticker price.
Gas Powered Leaf Blower
Gas powered leaf blowers are the best choice for large yards or driveways for a few reasons. First, they’re a lot more powerful, which means they can move more debris faster than eclectic models.
Another big benefit to gas-powered leaf blowers is that they’re much more portable since they’re not reliant on a battery or extension cord for power. You can get them in backpack styles so they’re easier to carry and easily cover your whole lawn, no matter how much area you have to cover.
Gas powered blowers do have some downsides. They’re a lot noisier than electric models, and since they run on gas, they need more maintenance and ongoing care than an electric option.
They’re also a little more expensive, and you have to keep buying fuel for them which is an ongoing cost. They are so much more effective than an electric model, though, that the time you save is worth it, especially if you have a lot of ground to cover.
Electric Leaf Blower
Electric leaf blowers are significantly lighter than gas and available in corded or cordless models. Cordless leaf blowers run on battery power, which means you’re limited by the battery life. Corded models are limited by the length of the extension cord.
If you have a small lawn, an electric model might be a good choice. For the most part, you just have to pick it up and go, but it’s not as powerful as gas so it will take you longer to get the job done.
That said, an electric leaf blower won’t cut it for large yards or commercial or professional use. In this case, a gas powered blower is superior because you don’t have to worry about battery life or an extension cord. Plus, they save you a lot of time.
The Best Gas Powered Leaf Blowers For Your Yard Use
If you’re looking for a great gas powered leaf blower, we have you covered. Here are ten of the best products on the market to help you narrow down which is right for you.
This gas-powered leaf blower from Hitachi produces a powerful 441 CFM air volume. When you use the included taper nozzle, it lows as fast as 170 MPH. With all that power, it’s surprising that it weighs only 8.6 pounds. It has a two-finger throttle lever and is well balanced, too, so it’s easy to use without causing fatigue.
Like all gas-powered leaf blowers, this one does require regular maintenance to keep it running properly, but it’s easy to disassemble so you can quickly access all the parts.
The commercial-grade engine was built for longer life which is why Hitachi covers it with an industry-leading warranty. You get seven-year consumer coverage, two-year commercial coverage, or one-year rental coverage, depending on how you use it.
Pros
The high air volume and speed are extremely effective.
Despite its power, it’s still lightweight and easy to use.
The industry-leading warranty covers consumer use for seven years.
Maintenance is relatively easy.
Cons
It may be difficult to find a local service center if repairs are needed.
It can be difficult to start.
2. Husqvarna 952711925 125B Handheld Blower
Husqvarna is a trusted brand when it comes to leaf blowers, and this leaf blower demonstrates why. With 425 CFM air volume and a top velocity of 170 MPH, this machine can quickly and easily clean up your yard.
A lot of things about this handheld blower are super convenient, too. It has a variable speed throttle with cruise control and automatically resets to the ON position when turned off so it’s easier to start the next time you use it.
All of the controls are laid out in an easy-to-access panel, and the blowing tube has an adjustable length so you can choose what’s best for the task at hand. This design also has an ergonomic handle to minimize force on your wrist to keep you pain-free, even after long periods of use.
Pros
Husqvarna covers this product with a two-year warranty.
The variable speed throttle and cruise control are extremely convenient.
Includes an adjustable-length blowing tube and ergonomic handle.
Cons
The design is not ideal for left-handed users.
3. Husqvarna 965877502 350BT Gas Backpack Blower
This leaf blower from Husqvarna is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a backpack design. It features an off-set handle, variable speed throttle, cruise control, and dampeners to reduce vibration, preventing arm strain and making it easier to control.
For even more comfort, this leaf blower has a padded harness and hip belt to spread the weight over the back and shoulders when you’re carrying it. This helps prevent pain, even after long periods of use.
Another good thing about this model is that the engine was designed to reduce emissions by as much as 60 percent and fuel efficiency by up to 20 percent. In the long run, that makes it a better choice for the environment and your wallet.
Pros
The intuitive controls are easy to use.
An adjustable-length tube gives the best performance for any space.
It’s extremely powerful with close to 500 CFM and a maximum speed of 180 MPH.
It’s backed by a two-year warranty.
Cons
It’s easy to accidentally bump the controls.
4. Poulan Pro PR48BT Gas Backpack Leaf Blower
Even though this heavy-duty backpack leaf blower has an airspeed of up to 200 MPH and 475 CFM, it’s still lightweight, comfortable, and easy to use. Plus, it’s loaded with high-performance features that might surprise you.
Cruise control and variable speed make it easy to adjust the settings to the task at hand, and the soft-grip handle helps keep your hand and wrist comfortable while you work.
The load-reducing harness provides an optimal fit and adjustable shoulder straps so you can get the right fit for you, reducing strain and fatigue. It’s ideal for clean-up at any time of year and a great choice for homeowners.
Pros
It features an impressive 200 MPH max speed and 475 CFM.
The cruise control and variable speed make it easy to use.
A load-reducing harness and adjustable padded shoulder straps keep you comfortable while you work.
Cons
It’s a bit awkward for left-handed users.
This leaf blower may be difficult to start.
5. Makita BHX2500CA MM4 Engine Blower
Because this leaf blower from Makita had a four-stroke engine, it uses straight gasoline and you don’t have to worry about mixing it with oil. The fuel tank holds 17.7 ounces of fuel so you don’t have to refill that often. Plus, it’s extremely fuel-efficient, saving you up to 60 percent in fuel costs.
The engine automatically decompresses for easier starts so you can get to work faster. Maintenance is simple as the replaceable dual-stage air filter and spark plugs are easily accessible.
Another great thing about this product is that it meets or exceeds EPA regulations for exhaust and emissions. We love that it comes with two nozzles and a tool kit so you can conveniently make adjustments as needed.
Pros
It’s backed by a two-year warranty on emissions-related parts. Everything else is covered for one year.
Two nozzles and a tool kit are included.
Internal components are easily accessed for maintenance.
Cons
At 9.8 pounds, it’s a little heavy for some users.
6. Craftsman B215 Engine Handheld Gas Powered Leaf Blower
This handheld leaf blower from Craftsmen has a powerful engine that produces 430 CFM with a max speed of 200 MPH. It starts easy in three simple steps, just prime, choke and pull.
The user-friendly design features a variable speed throttle, extended nozzle with an integrated scraper, and a see-through gas tank so you know when it’s time to refuel. Plus, oil is included with your purchase, which is one less thing you have to worry about.
Overall, this leaf blower is easy to use and maintain, plus it’s powerful enough to blow even wet leaves off your grass. Craftsmen backs this product with a two-year limited warranty.
Pros
It’s designed to start in only three easy steps.
The variable speed throttle and extended nozzle with scraper make it easy to adapt to any job.
Oil is included and the see-through gas tank means you always know when it’s time to refuel.
Cons
At 11 pounds, it’s heavier than most other options.
7. Remington RM2BV Gas Leaf Blower
If you’re looking for a leaf blower and vacuum in one, take a look at this product from Remington. Now, you can clear the leaves off your lawn and clean them up with one piece of equipment.
When used as a leaf blower, it has a max airspeed of 205 MPH and moves 450 CFM. The vacuum effectively reduces the size of the leaves and other debris by a six-to-one ratio so you don’t have to empty the bag too often. Plus, it makes it easier to dispose of.
A spring-assisted coil makes it easy to start the machine. Once you get it going, the cruise control and a variable speed throttle let you easily make adjustments. There’s also an overmold handle that reduces vibration and hand fatigue.
Pros
It operates as both a leaf blower and a vacuum.
An extended nozzle reaches closer to the ground without having to bend over.
The translucent fuel tank lets you see when it’s time to refuel.
Cons
It’s a bit awkward for left-handed users.
8. Tanaka TRB24EAP Gas Powered Handheld Leaf Blower
The Tanaka handheld leaf blower is one of the lighter weight options available at only 8.6 pounds, but it still has a lot of power. It produces an air volume of 441 CFM and has a max airspeed of 170 MPH.
This well-balanced design is easy to use for longer periods without strain or fatigue. The two-finger throttle is convenient to use and the quick and simple start is ideal for both homeowners and professional landscapers.
One of the best things about this machine is that it has a low emission engine, so it’s better for the environment than some other models. Plus, it’s covered by a generous seven-year warranty so you can trust that it’s made to last.
Pros
Even though it’s lightweight, it delivers an air volume of 441 CFM and a top wind speed of 170 MPH.
The easy-start design and two-finger throttle are simple and convenient.
Tanaka covers this product with an impressive seven-year warranty.
Cons:
The design is a bit bulky and may be tough to maneuver for some users.
9. Schröder Industrial Backpack Leaf Blower
This backpack leaf blower from Schröder is one of the most powerful options we reviewed, touting an air volume of 920 CFM and a max airspeed of 230 MPH. It’s a powerful machine that delivers a lot of bang for your buck.
The trigger lock makes it easy to use as you don’t have to worry about holding the trigger down while you’re working at full power. It also comes with two nozzles so you can choose the one best suited to the job.
A carburetor adjustment tool is included to make maintenance a little easier. Everything is easy to access, and putting everything back together should be pretty simple. pt to mention, it’s covered by a five-year replacement warranty that includes the motor.
Pros
This is an extremely powerful unit, with a max airspeed of 230 MPH and an air volume of 920 CFM.
It includes two nozzles.
Everything is easy to access for maintenance and a carburetor tool is included.
Cons
Figuring out how to adjust the carburetor may take a bit of research if you’re unfamiliar with engines.
10. ECHO Gas Backpack Blower
This backpack leaf blower from ECHO has a lot of convenient features that make it a great choice for any homeowner. Plus, it’s made to last. The heavy-duty air filtration extends the life of the blower, and it’s covered by a five-year consumer or two-year commercial warranty.
It was also made to save you time and energy. The variable speed throttle and cruise control are tube-mounted for easy access and it comes with a lead guard to protect it from leaves and debris.
Another great thing about this machine is that it’s designed for comfort. It has a one-of-a-kind back pad that’s vented to help you stay cool while you work as well as a padded backrest and straps.
Pros
It’s built to last and covered by an impressive five-year consumer warranty.
The variable speed throttle and cruise control make it easy to use.
It has a unique vented back pad and padded shoulder straps for comfort.
Cons
At 28 pounds, this is the heaviest product on our list.
What to Look For When Buying a Gas Leaf Blower?
There are a handful of features to keep in mind when choosing a gas leaf blower, including:
Handheld or Backpack Leaf Blower
This one is pretty self-explanatory, but it’s a big decision nonetheless. Handheld leaf blowers are carried, while backpack styles have comfortable padded straps and support so they’re a little easier to carry around.
That said, some of these products aren’t as heavy as you might think so you don’t necessarily need one with a backpack design. If you have an exceptionally large yard or think you’ll have trouble lugging around a handheld, though, a backpack is a great option.
CFM or MPH for Leaf Blower
CFM stands for cubic feet per minute and measures the volume of air the leaf blower puts out. MPH is miles per hour and shows you how fast the air comes out of the blower.
How effective a leaf blower depends on both of these values. A high CFM means that the blower has more power and may be able to move small twigs and rocks in addition to leaves.
It’s easy to think that a faster leaf blower is more powerful, but high MPH doesn’t always translate into more power. There’s no direct relationship between the two values either so it’s not easy to determine how effective a blower is just by looking at these tp numbers.
That said, if you’re worried about power, pay more attention to the CFM than MPH.
2 Cycle vs. 4 Cycle Leaf Blower
A two-cycle leaf blower is more powerful, but it requires a mixture of oil and gas to run. These are more common because they’re much easier to design and build than a four-cycle blower.
They’re also cheaper. A two-cycle leaf blower has fewer parts, so they don’t cost as much to produce. The oil and gas mixture is the biggest downside, though. It makes them very loud and causes more pollution.
A four-cycle leaf blower is similar to a car engine. They require oil, too, but they have separate reservoirs for gas and oil. This makes them somewhat easier to run because you don’t have to worry about mixing the two properly.
Four cycle engines are more efficient, but because they have more parts, they’re pretty heavy. To have the same amount of power as a two-cycle engine, a four-cycle would have to be pretty heavy.
Fuel Tank Capacity
When considering fuel tank capacity, you have to balance convenience with weight. The larger the tank, the longer it will last and you don’t have to stop to refuel. But larger tanks are heavier, too, which means you have more weight to carry around.
Speed Control
Some leaf blowers have variable speeds, which means you can use them for a variety of applications. They tend to be more efficient, too, because you can choose how much power you need.
Gas Leaf Blower Noise Level
Gas powered leaf blowers are louder than electric models, but they’re not as disruptive as you might think. While you should wear ear protection while using one, it’s unlikely to excessively bother your neighbors.
How to Start a Gas Powered Leaf Blower?
The specifics of how to start a gas powered leaf blower vary from one model to the next, so make sure you read the manual to make sure you get it right. Here are some general guidelines for getting things going.
Note that if you have a two-cycle engine, it’s extremely important that you read the instructions as to how to mix the oil and fuel. Mix the two according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Before starting a gas powered leaf blower, fill it with the oil and fuel mixture, or, if you have a four-cycle engine, use straight gasoline and make sure there’s enough oil in the oil reservoir.
Next, press the primer bulb in and release it slowly, about five or six times, then put the choke on. Pull the start cord once and open the choke slightly by setting it halfway between closed and open.
Pull the starting cord a few times until the engine starts, then let it run for a few minutes before opening the choke. If it stalls, pull the start cord again. If it doesn’t, you’re ready to go.
How to Maintain Gas Leaf Blower?
Specific maintenance needs vary between models so make sure you check the manual so you know what your leaf blower needs.
Before you get started, make sure you have enough room to work in a well-ventilated area. Put down a drop cloth to make cleanup easier. You also have to allow your leaf blower to stop moving and cool off before doing anything.
Next, remove the spark plug wire and cover to access the inside of the leaf blower. Before you pull the spark plug out, clean the area around it to prevent any debris from falling in. Inspect the spark plug itself for damage. It should be covered in oil.
In most cases, you can clean the spark plug and reuse it when you’re done. If there’s damage or if it’s worn, it will need to be replaced.
One thing you should always check is the air filter. This keeps the engine running optimally and is an easy thing to do. Just remove the cover and pull out the air filter. Some can be cleaned with soap and water then left to dry and reused, though all air filters need replacing eventually.
If you have a four-cycle engine, check the oil reservoir regularly and refill using the type of oil the manufacturer recommends. When the oil needs to be changed, tip the leaf blower over and drain the oil completely and then refill.
Every month, you should clean old gas out of the tank and wipe down the fan blades to keep them working effectively. Take a close look at the filters, cables, fuel line, and all other connections to make sure there’s no damage.
Gas Powered Leaf Blower FAQs
What kind of gas does a leaf blower use?
Most gas leaf blowers use the same unleaded gasoline you use in your car. While you don’t have to use premium gas, your leaf blower may run more efficiently if you do.
How to mix gas and oil for a leaf blower?
Check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure, but the typical ratio for mixing gas and oil is 40:1; that is 40 parts gasoline to one part oil.
Fill up your gas canister with one gallon at the gas station. Then, add the right amount of oil and mix by closing the lid tightly and giving it a good shake or swirl.
Why my gas powered leaf blower won’t start?
If your leaf blower won’t start, the first thing you should do is make sure it has enough gas.
If the tank is full and the leaf blower still won’t start, the engine may be flooded, especially if there’s a strong smell of gasoline.
In this case, set the choke on and the throttle to the fast setting and continue to pull the cord until the engine starts. If this doesn’t work, check the spark plug and fuel filter.
Will a leaf blower work on wet leaves?
It depends on how powerful it is. Those with a high CFM are usually able to handle wet leaves pretty well. This is one of the main differences between electric and gas leaf blowers as a lot of electric models are not able to pick up wet leaves.
Conclusion
Our pick for the best gas powered handheld leaf blower is the Hitachi RB24EAP Gas Powered Leaf Blower. It has a powerful 441 CFM air volume and weighs only 8.6 pounds. The commercial-grade engine is made to last, and it comes with a generous warranty.
The best gas powered backpack leaf blower is the ECHO Gas Backpack Blower. While this one is pretty heavy, it has a unique vented back pad and padded shoulder straps to make it as comfortable as possible to use. It has variable speed and cruise control for easy operation.
NICE