Isn’t it wonderful when one tool can be used multiple ways? It sure saves a lot of time and money. A leaf blower is one such tool that has a variety of uses.
A leaf blower can be used as a snowblower but with some limitations. A leaf blower will only work on light, dry snow that is no more than one inch high. It won’t work on wet snow. Leaf blowers with higher-powered motors are best for removing snow.
Safety Tips When Using a Leaf Blower in the Snow
You must take the proper safety precautions when using a leaf blower to clear snow. If the manual says not to use the leaf blower in the snow, DO NOT use it in the snow. Your leaf blower is not powerful enough for that type of job.
1. Use Only Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers
Electricity and water should never be mixed. Since snow is a form of water, you don’t want to use an electric leaf blower to remove snow. Gas-powered blowers cordless, and they’re typically more powerful, making the removal of snow easier.
2. Keep It Quick
Using a leaf blower in the cold for extended periods of time can damage the motor. You want a machine powerful enough to blow the snow quickly. A good rule of thumb is to decide whether or not a broom could handle the job. If so, then it’s okay to use a leaf blower.
3. Pay Attention to the Kind of Snow
Leaf blowers work best in light, powdery snow. Trying to blow wet snow would wear down the motor, potentially ruining it. Make sure the snow no more than one inch high. Anything more would take too much time and will strain the engine.
4. Watch the Outside Temperature
It’s best to use the leaf blower in temperatures above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything below 32 degrees can cause damage to the motor.
5. Handle with Care
After you’ve quickly removed the snow, bring the leaf blower inside with you. This will give it the proper chance to dry and warm up before using it again.
Important Tips When Using Leaf Blower To Blow Snow
With leaf blowers, time is of the essence. Having a solid technique for snow removal will ensure you get the job done quickly.
1.Don’t Wait for Accumulation
Because leaf blowers are meant for lightweight leaves, you can’t let the snow accumulate too high. It’s best to use the leaf blower before the snow has stopped falling, which means you may be out there multiple times.
2.Blowing Techniques for Porch, Stairs, or Deck
If blowing snow from a porch, deck, or a set of stairs, start from the bottom and work your way up. Avoid moving the leaf blower every which way because the snow will go everywhere. Instead, move the leaf blower horizontally from left to right.
3.Clearing Your Car
You can use a leaf blower to remove snow from your car. However, you must still be mindful of the amount of snow that has accumulated. The car should only have a slight dusting of snow.
You also want to make sure you clear the entire vehicle, including the roof. Leaving snow on the roof can be dangerous when driving. Start with one side at a time before clearing the top.
4.Snow Removal around Furniture
Unfortunately, the downside of blowing snow is that piles of snow get left behind. It’s particularly tricky to completely remove snow around furniture when using a blower. It’s recommended to use a shovel or a broom to get those hard-to-reach places where snow has piled.
Choosing the Right Leaf Blower for Snow Removal
There are several factors to consider when deciding which leaf blower to use in the snow. We already know it should be gas-powered, but what else should be taken into consideration?
Air Volume and Speed
When using a leaf blower in the snow, we know we need to move a lot of snow in a short period of time.
Cubic feet per minute (CFM) tells you how much snow can be blown per minute. Miles per hour (MPH) tells you how fast the snow will get blown. The higher these two numbers are the quicker the job will get done.
Engine Capacity
The engine determines whether or not your leaf blower is strong enough to blow snow. You want to consider the cubic centimeter (cc) of your leaf blower. The cc is the size of the cylinder in the engine. The larger the engine the more power it will generate.
Weight and Design
Traditional snow blowers can be awkward to handle. If opting for a leaf blower, choose one that is lightweight with a sleek design. Ideally, you want to be able to hold it with one hand so your other hand is free to stabilize yourself.
Related Questions
What is a good leaf blower for snow?
Some of the top leaf blowers to use in the snow include Hitachi RB24EAP, Toro 51619 Ultra, Craftsman B215 25cc, Remington RM2BV Ambush, and WORX WG546.2 Turbine.
How much do leaf blowers cost?
For the purpose of using it as a snowblower, you’ll want to get either a gas handheld or a gas backpack leaf blower.
A gas handheld leaf blower can range from $90-$220. A gas backpack leaf blower can range from $160-$480. Don’t just go for cheap, though. You still want to be sure the leaf blower is safe for snow removal.
Should I protect my ears when using a leaf blower?
Yes! Whether using it for leaf or snow removal, you should always use ear protection when operating a leaf blower. Ear protection is especially important when using a gas-powered blower because of how loud they are.
Summing It Up
Gas-powered leaf blowers are best when used in light, powdery snow no more than one inch high. The most important things to consider are the air volume, speed, and engine capacity. Remember, the larger the engine capacity the better. If you’re unsure whether your leaf blower is safe to use in snow, err on the side of caution.