Best walk behind leaf blowers/leaf vacuums | Buyers’ Guide
What is the best walk behind leaf blower? The advanced walk behind leaf blowers come with an air suction function, and ability to process the incoming garden or construction debris in a collecting bag or container. The high-performance models are equipped with special blades-shredders to mulch smaller and some bigger lawn debris like thin branches The wheeled models are highly versatile units which can be used for domestic and commercial purposes. Besides, these machines demonstrate higher performance, efficiency and capacity of their collecting bags. Overall, such units may cover large territories with no hassle or mishaps. The PATRIOT CBV-2455H would cope with different debris easily providing a long-lasing and trouble-free operation.
The wheeled-design of this machine relieves you from an excessive strain unlike handheld or backpack models, and gives you an opportunity to hold the cleaning process under the total control.
Self-propelled vs backpack vs walk-behind leaf blowers
Walk behind models are commonly on wheels and feature more powerful engine/motor in comparison with the handheld and backpack tools. Besides, due to the higher capacity they are capable of cleaning far larger territories. Height adjustment and blowing/vacuuming tube capacity allow adopting such devices for any type of garden debris. In order to clean any hard-to-reach areas it is possible to connect a flexible hose to the unit and collect the most stubborn debris. The walk behind models would be especially suitable for medium-sized areas with a large volume of work. However, you’ll have to put some efforts to push such unit around as in average its weight varies from 66 lbs up to 287 lbs.
Self-propelled leaf blowers. The movement of such unit is carried out due to a front drive which activates the whole system. Thanks to the fact that such machine is self-propelled, it can cover even larger territories like parks or squares with enormous volumes of leaves, lawn debris and some other wastes. A big collecting compartment for debris and additional blades for chopping the incoming objects allow accomplishing large-scale cleaning projects. The self-propelled models are highly demanded by professional landscapers, parks departments, cemeteries, resorts, street departments and golf and estate properties but their prices are about $2,500.
Features to be considered when choosing a commercial leaf blower/vacuum | Buyers’ Guide
- Engine capacity. The majority of wheeled leaf blowers/vacs are equipped with a gas engine. The capacity of the latter is determined in cc (cubic centimeters). These beasty machines may feature the lowest 100 cc up to 500 cc engines. Being packed with such enormous power, the walk behind and self-propelled models can generate the highest air flow and speed of 2000 CFM (cubic feet per minute) at 200 MPH (miles per hour) or even higher rates.
Engine type (2- or 4-stage). The most powerful leaf blowers/vacs are equipped with 2-stage or 4-stage engines. Both types feature a number of particular benefits mentioned below:
The 4-stage engines are considered to be more durable withstanding higher loads and extended operations. Due to the fact that they run on a pure gas, there’s no need to premix it with oil. Thus, oil drops do not penetrate the fuel, generating less hazardous emissions while running. More than that, they are quieter in comparison with the 2-stage counterparts.
The 2-stage engines are considered to be an upgraded version of a conventional gas engine. They usually have lower weight, feature more power output with a sufficient operating stability, and cost less.
- Fuel tank capacity. The volume of a tank influences mainly on a continuous running of a blower/vacuum without refilling. This parameter has a special priority when looking for the professional-grade equipment designed for long-lasting operations and higher loads. Nowadays, the wheeled units naturally feature the highest capacity in comparison with handheld or backpack models, and have tanks with the capacity of up to 100 ounces (oz).
- Noise level. Since all leaf blower types belong to the class of high noise level equipment, you should select the quietest possible option, to prevent excessive hearing harm, and to comply with the local noise level regulations, if any. The units equipped with a gas engine are usually louder in operation than their electric counterparts and generate around 100 dB and more. So, be sure you are always equipped with a right gear like ear plugs or similar ear defenders.
- Weight. As I’ve mentioned above, weight is an essential issue when looking for a walk behind manual propelled leaf blower/vac. Since you have to push your unit around the territory to be cleaned, try to find the best compromise between power and weight.
- Electric walk behind leaf blowers like Sun Joe are eco-friendly alternatives to the overpowering professional-grade gas leaf blowers.
- Storage. The majority of walk-behind gas leaf blowers are bulky and have bigger footprint in comparison with handheld and backpack models. So, you should think over the storage location for your future wheeled investment, as it would be most probably used on a seasonal basis. Thus, make sure you have an adequate space like garage, warehouse or similar, to store such machine in the proper conditions.
Top-7 walk behind leaf blowers/vacs | Reveiws
We’ve prepared the list of the modern high-end wheeled models capable to tackle challenging cleaning projects, and their compact backpack and handheld counterparts, like MAKITA BHX2500CA, showing the sufficient power to compete with the above-mentioned professional-grade machines from Patriot, Try-Bilt, Sun Joe, etc.
1. Patriot Products CBV-2455H 24-Inch Honda Gas Powered Walk Behind 3-In-1 Leaf Vacuum/Chipper/Blower | Best Powerfull
Patriot is the U.S. company which has been manufacturing a wide range of garden power tools, construction and auto servicing equipment since 2000. And from that time they have been developing into a leading national brand in the field of outdoor equipment satisfying successfully the needs of amateurs and professionals.
The CBV-2455H is a gas-powered chipper blower vacuum which exceeds the expectations of any sophisticated user. Its durability is proved by the 5.5 hp Honda's GX series engine which enables this three-in-one machine to handle the most challenging outdoor cleaning projects. Besides, this commercial-grade engine contributes to a smooth and comparatively quiet operation in comparison with other gas-powered models in this class. This machine is capable to deliver up to 140 MPH. The CBV-2455H clears 24-inch wide path in one pass. It can vacuum leaves, cut grass, stems and even small branches up to 2-inch in diameter, then shred and collect them in a large 4-bushel collecting bag. By a simple flipping of the lever this lawn vacuum chipper can be turned into a powerful leaf blower.
Features
- Air speed Max (MPH): 140
- Air flow Max (CFM): N/a
- Weight (lbs): 97
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 50 x 28 x 25
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This model offers the exceptional reliability and performance which would be highly appreciated by the professional landscapers, public utility crews or the homeowners maintaining large territories around the house.
Patriot: Check the current price
2. Troy-Bilt TB672 208cc Jet Sweep Wheeled Leaf Blower | Best Lightweight Under $500
This manually pushed walk behind blower comes with a powerful 208cc overhead valve engine made by Briggs & Stratton. The manufacturer of the blower itself is a well-known brand of outdoor power tools with more than 80-year history on the U.S. market. The TB672 has a 4-stage engine, thus the maintenance and pre-starting process are becoming much easier and quicker. Such system ensures a great deal of air volume equal to 1000 CFM at 150 MPH, thus helping its owner to get rid of different garden debris. The 3 quart fuel tank allows using this machine for the long-lasting cleaning jobs.
This model features semi-pneumatic wheels with bearings and an ergonomic rubberized grip handle to create more comfort during its operation. The 90-degree front discharge chute and 14-inch impeller serve to enhance the efficiency of this blower to the higher extent.
Features
- Air speed Max (MPH): 150
- Air flow (CFM): 1000
- Weight (lbs): 78
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 30.5 x 25.5 x 27.5
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This hardworking manually pushed leaf blower offers an extraordinary performance without compromising its light weight and maneuverability.
TROY-BILT: Check the current price
3. Landworks Leaf Blower Super Duty Wheeled Walk Behind Jet Sweep Manual-Propelled | Best Under $300
This gas-powered manually-propelled wheeled blower features an extra-duty 7 hp 212cc 4-stage engine which contributes to reaching of high air flow and speed ratings of up to 2000 CFM at 200 MPH. The start-up process won’t be an issue as there’s no necessity to mix fuel with oil, just fill them straightly in the corresponding compartments. Its metal 13.5’’ impeller enhances the air stream and makes it more efficient in comparison with a conventional plastic fan.
The GUO022-FBA is made of steel with an anti-corrosion coating to suit the toughest applications under any ambient conditions. This model comes with the robust all-terrain 10” rear wheels and the 8” 360° swivel front wheel which improve the maneuverability and sufficient traction while moving this unit around any job site.
Features
- Air speed Max (MPH): 200
- Air flow Max (CFM): 2000
- Weight (lbs): 129.7
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 26.6 x 22.5 x 22.3
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This robust leaf blower is built to handle heavy-duty applications, and would be highly appreciated by the professionals or any hardworking users.
LANDWORKS: Check the current price
4. SuperHandy Leaf Blower Ultra Duty Wheeled Walk Behind | Best Under $400
As the name implies this super duty walk behind leaf blower features an extremely powerful 7 HP 212 cc 4-stage engine. The latter delivers an outstanding power output of up to 2000 CFM at 200 MPH. The air flow can be changed by means of 90° - adjusted angle flap to achieve higher accuracy of any clearing job. Its 13.5’’ robust impeller is made of metal to withstand higher loads and reach an outpaced efficiency while maintaining your land. The leaf blower itself comes in a corrosion resistant steel design to improve its durability and opportunity of use under any weather conditions.
The mobility of this manually propelled model is ensured by two sturdy all-terrain 10” rear wheels and a front swivel wheel.
Features
- Air speed Max (MPH): 200
- Air flow Max (CFM): 2000
- Weight (lbs): 129.7
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 26.6 x 22.5 x 22.3
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This model has been developed to grant a matchless confidence to its users while long-lasting running under any operating conditions.
SUPERHANDY: Check the current price
5. Sun Joe SBJ803E 14-Amp Walk Behind Outdoor Corded-Electric Vacuum Blower + Mulcher | Best Budget Electric Under $200
This model is one of the awesome units from the Snow Joe & Sun Joe outdoor power tools lineup. The SBJ803E is an electric corded walk behind leaf blower with additional vacuuming and mulching functions. This unit is equipped with a reliable 14 Amp motor to deliver up to 600 CFM at 165 MPH providing an outstanding efficiency of any selected mode of operation. The conversion between the modes is just a snap with an easy flick of a switch. Its robust impeller reduces the volume of the incoming debris up to 15:1 ratio in the 8-gallon collecting bag.
This model was designed with a special care to its users delivering maximum convenience during the operation. In particular, it comes with the rugged wheels designed for any outdoor surfaces, and the adjustable handle for a convenience of any user, as well as easy storage.
Features
- Air speed Max (MPH): 165
- Air flow Max (CFM): 600
- Weight (lbs): 18.5
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 33.5 x 19.7 x 36.6
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I would recommend this versatile unit as one of the best eco-friendly alternatives to the overpowering professional-grade gas leaf blowers.
Sun Joe: Check the current price
6. POULAN PRO PR48BT | Best Budget Gas-Powered Alternative Under $200
The Poulan Pro is recognizable U.S. brand with a vast experience in manufacturing of powerful outdoor equipment. The Poulan Pro PR48BT features all latest innovative solutions of the company which is always continuing to develop and upgrade the existing technologies.
This backpack model is equipped with 48 cc 2-stage engine to generate an exceptional air blow force of up to 475 CFM at 200 MPH in its class. The power settings can be selected by means of a variable speed throttle to suit medium to large land maintenance and clean-up. The integrated cruise control facilitates the cleaning process and accuracy of operation.
The design of this leaf blower serves to boost the convenience of its use featuring an ergonomic soft-grip handle and adjustable shoulder straps. The angled nozzle spots the air stream downward, thus reducing efforts and maximizing power output.
Features
- Air speed Max (MPH): 200
- Air flow (CFM): 475
- Noise level (dB.): 96.7
- Weight (lbs): 22
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 13 x 17 x 17
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The Poulan Pro PR48BT delivers high power to handle bigger cleanup projects granting convenience and easiness of its operation to any user.
Poulan Pro: Check the current price
7. Makita BHX2500CA 24.5 cc MM4 4-Stroke Engine Blower
Makita has been associated with the high quality and performance of their products for a long time on the global market of power tools. The BHX2500CA is a bright example of Makita’s commitment to the state-of-the-art technologies.
This handheld leaf blower comes with a 24.5 cc 4-stroke engine which can demonstrate up to 358 CFM at 145 MPH performance. Besides the engine features an automatic decompression function which enables quicker and easier starts. More than that, the applied solutions allow complying with EPA Phase II CARB III regulations. The air volume and velocity can be varied with the help of a variable flow and speed control. The desired settings may be maintained by means of a cruise control function.
The BHX2500CA is offered in a compact and lightweight design, and an ergonomic soft grip which contributes to a smooth operation with less vibration. An integrated muffler is designed to mitigate noise level during its operation down to 67 dB.
Features
- Air speed Max (MPH): 145
- Air flow (CFM): 358
- Noise level (dB.): 67
- Weight (lbs): 9.8
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 16 x 8.5 x 16.5
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Featuring a powerful engine this handheld leaf blower is one of the quietest in operation among other modern gas models. However, due to the compactness it is still capable to satisfy the needs of the landscaping professionals or some of the commercials, especially for different field projects.
Makita: Check the current price
10 Best-Selling Walk Behind Leaf Blowers Comparative Table
Products with 5 star rating
What is the alternative to a walk behind commercial leaf blower/vac?
Taking into consideration the above-mentioned of this guide, you will never regret about a worthy investment like a heavy-duty walk behind leaf blower, if you have a large outdoor space with enormous piles of leaves to be cleared. However, you may like to have a more compact and lightweight alternative without compromising its high performance and ability to handle challenging cleaning tasks. A backpack leaf blower is a really awesome option combining advantages of a portable tool and professional-grade equipment. These models are the most demanded types of leaf blowers for performing large-scale projects, by public utilities or commercials.
The ergonomic design of backpack blowers is one of the most beneficial features contributing to its popularity. The main part of tool, an engine or motor, is secured by the shoulder straps and hold as a conventional backpack. Such design enhances the uniformity of load distribution on a back, thus an operator is capable of working almost effortlessly. Nevertheless, in spite of all benefits granted by these units, you can run them in a blowing mode only.
If you need a compact and more versatile but still powerful leaf blower, designed for fulfilling different cleaning tasks like blowing, vacuuming and mulching, than you should focus on gas-powered handheld units. The latter are widely offered on the modern market and outrun their electric corded and cordless counterparts in terms of power and efficiency. They are not limited by a capacity of a power cable or a battery life. The most powerful gas options are equipped with flexible hoses and collecting accessories thus enhancing its efficiency and output.
Advantages of walk behind leaf blowers
In the fall any homeowner faces a great deal of dead leaves and other garden debris at the backyard and its surroundings. Consequently, sooner or later the issue of purchase of a specific device allowing to get rid of debris in a quick and easy way becomes highly relevant. The leaf blowers will do this job perfectly like no other does. Certainly, heavy-duty wheeled models will be more suitable if you have larger private territory to cover or if you need such tool for commercial purposes like cleaning of outdoor public areas or territories adjacent to office buildings, stores, schools, etc. These professional-grade units are capable of tackling large-scale cleaning projects within a short time and feature multiple advanced functions enhancing overall efficiency and performance. That’s exactly the class of leaf blowers/vacs I’m going to review in this buyers’ guide to give you a clear understanding whether it’s your case or not.
FAQ
How to use a walk behind leaf blower?
Since the walk behind models are classified as professional-grade equipment, they should be operated with a special care in terms of safety. First, you should always remember about protective gear before starting work with your wheeled unit. In particular, don’t forget about ear protection, since these gas-powered beasts may roar at 100 dB and even more. You’d also better wear clothes to cover your body entirely, gloves and goggles, as the generated swirl of the air can move debris and thus damaging you. Also ensure that there are no people or pets in the close proximity to the area you are going to operate your blower.
Before starting the clearing process, also make sure that it’s not too windy outside. Otherwise, check if the wind blows in the same direction you want to move the leaves. Also, take into consideration that dry leaves or any garden debris are easier to handle than wet objects.
When pushing a manually-propelled unit do it in a slow pace and work in one direction. Otherwise, you may blow the leaves to the area that has been already cleared.
Other specific recommendations would be related to the type of your leaf blower, whether it is an electric- or gas-powered machine. In this case, you should strictly observe the manufacturer’s guidance.
