Leaf Blowers: How to Make These Landscaping Machines Last
Homeowners or anyone providing landscaping services will benefit most by incorporating tried and tested leaf blower maintenance tips.
Not too long from now, fall will be upon us in its full glory. It is a time of the year that some of us love as the world is being painted in an array of colors, ranging from orange to brown and other vibrant colors. While many get to enjoy the picturesque scenes all around them, others face leaf-covered lawns.
In anticipation of the coming fall season, we need to be sure our leaf blowers are geared to tackle days and days of cleaning up leaves that will be blown all over.
Owners of smaller yards might be content in making use of a rake to take care of garden maintenance. But if you have to deal with large piles of leaves, then a leaf blower is your next best option.
Whether you intend using a wheeled, backpack, or handheld blower, you have to adopt a regular leaf blower maintenance schedule.
Without a doubt, even the best gardener can do with a list of guidelines. It sure is useful to know how to prolong your blower’s life.
How to Maintain Electric Leaf Blowers
The most important rule is to plug it out the moment you are finished with it. Electronic parts on the inside may result in a short circuit and shock the next user without any warning.
Be sure to check the cable and plug to see if any tears or other irregularities are present. Should you notice anything, be sure not to use your leaf blower until you changed the cable. Before you fix it yourself, ensure you know the basic principles of electricity.
Do not hesitate for one moment if you feel unsure about what to do next. Rather hire a professional repairer.
Another maintenance tip is to check the fan for any particles that might be stuck in it, especially when it is fall already. The moving components of the fan attract all sorts of objects that eventually jam the entire system.
Turn the fan or impeller off immediately should you detect unusual noises. Disassemble this part and remove any debris before continuing.
It is useful if you have a multimeter in your toolbox so you may check the terminals inside your leaf blower.
The best thing about having an electric blower is that they are not hard to check and repair. Only a few parts can give trouble without any prior warning. You just need to eliminate any problems one by one by troubleshooting every part to get to the bottom of the problem.
How to Maintain Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers
Contrary to popular belief, it is harder to discover what is wrong and repair a gas-powered unit than an electric one. The reason for this is that there are way more mechanical parts.
Before you begin with your leaf blower maintenance procedures, be sure to safeguard your eyes by wearing safety glasses.
First of all, pay attention to the cooling system. Modern leaf blower maintenance guidelines indicate that blowers require plenty of air to perform properly. Prepare yourself for the fact that the cooling air intake may become clogged.
Conventional blowers are equipped with an air filter that should be inspected daily and cleaned when needed. Experts recommend that you tap the filters on a hard surface or make use of a softer brush for cleaning the outer parts.
Should you notice that the filter is soaked in oil or fuel, you need to replace it. Make a point of doing so every three months.
The next process is to inspect the fuel filter. Clogged fuel filters can restrict the fuel system and result in engine performance issues. If not seen to soon enough, it will result in engine failure. Once the filter is blown, be sure to replace it.
Gas-powered machines require its users to religiously follow the suggested leaf blower maintenance tips, which involves replacing the spark plugs every three months.
Last but not least, one should inspect the fuel mixture. Make a point of always referring to the maintenance manual and mix the fuel as instructed. Pay close attention as you do not want to mess up the recommended combination. Doing so will result in increased carbon emissions, and the engine performance will drop drastically and interfere with your leaf blowing endeavors.
By taking proper care of your leaf blower, it will reduce the need for hiring the professionals.
Resources— Troybilt, Power Equipment Direct
About The Author
