how to start a leaf blower

If you regularly deal with a yard full of leaves, a leaf blower is the most time-saving and beneficial item you can purchase. The ground may become covered with rotting leaves from trees and plants, especially in winter.

Starting a leaf blower correctly is of paramount importance. Not only does it ensure the longevity of the tool, but it also optimizes its performance, maximizes fuel or battery efficiency, and guarantees safe operation. Incorrect startup can lead to engine damage, reduced functionality, and in some instances, safety hazards.

In this article, we delve into the intricacies of starting a leaf blower. Whether it's gas-powered or electric, we'll guide you through the process with clear, step-by-step instructions.

How to start a leaf blower?

Leaf blowers come in various styles, each with its starting instructions. While electric cordless or corded leaf blowers are very easy to use, gas blowers are a bit more complicated. Let's discuss the steps on how to start a gasoline leaf blower.

Step 1: Prepare the air-oil mixture

• Check the gasoline and oil levels in the leaf blower fuel tank. If the fuel tank of the leaf blower is empty, fill it up with gasoline before attempting to start it.

• Fill the tank with the recommended oil. Two-stroke engines require a fuel mixture of gasoline and oil.

• Most units operate with a solution of 1 part oil to 50 part gasoline or a 1:50 ratio.

• This approximately equates to 212 ounces of oil per gallon of gasoline.

• However, it is best to double-check the model manual to make sure this is an accurate ratio.

• Add these ingredients to the gasoline can in precise proportions and shake well to ensure they are well mixed.

• Make sure to measure the quantity correctly, as using an incorrect scale could cause the leaf blower to smoke and possibly damage it.

Step 2: Slowly pour the mixture

Once the oil-gasoline mixture has been produced, shake it well to ensure the oil is evenly distributed throughout the gasoline.

Slowly pour this combination into the gasoline tank of your leaf blower, filling it to the indicated level.

Step 3: Start the engine

See the owner's manual to locate the choke and turn it off. If the choke is open, move the lever halfway between "Open" and "Close" to close the choke partially. Some blowers have an "on" switch on them. If the position is not correct, the blower won't start.

Step 4: Pull the starter cord

This is an essential step in using a leaf blower. Hold the starter cord firmly with one hand and the blower body with the other. Now pull the cable as hard as you can. You need to pull one to five times to start the engine.

Step 5: Let the engine run for a while and open the choke fully

Let the engine run for 10 to 30 seconds after starting.

If your machine has a manual choke, it should be set in the "run" position after the engine has been running for a while.

Some types have a semi-automatic choke that automatically returns to the run position.

Related Reading: How to use a leaf blower

Step 6: Always maintain your leaf blower

Always turn off the leaf blower when not in use.

Do not store the machine with gasoline inside.

You should read your leaf blower manual if you don't understand any part of your leaf blower. 

A four-stroke gasoline leaf blower looks identical to a two-stroke gasoline leaf blower. The only change is the power source. Two-stroke gasoline blowers require a mixture of gasoline and oil, while four-stroke models require gasoline. All preceding procedures except the first should be followed to start a four-stroke model.

How to start an electric leaf blower

A cordless battery-operated leaf blower can help avoid the hassle of tangling garden tools but ensure the batteries are fully charged before use. Also, you may need to recharge the battery a few times, depending on how big your yard is or how many leaves you need to dispose of.

These simple instructions will help you turn on your cordless or battery-operated leaf blower:

1. Assemble leaf blower.

2. Insert the battery into the battery holder of the leaf blower. If the battery doesn't slide easily, you didn't insert the battery correctly. Listen for a click to confirm the battery is successfully locked.

3. Press and hold the power button to turn on the leaf blower. Note that the leaf blower will automatically shut off if you do not use it within one minute.

4. Press the cruise button to run the blower at constant power. But if you need temporary extra power, press the boost button.

What to do if your leaf blower won't start

Learn why your leaf blower won't start and what you can do about it.

• Primer bulb not pressed enough: Press and release the primer bulb fully about ten times. This will help get fuel into the carburetor.

• Leaf blower out of fuel: Before starting, you must ensure the proper amount of properly mixed fuel in the tank.

• Old or improperly mixed fuel: If the fuel has been in the tank for more than 30 days, or you think it may have been mixed incorrectly, drain it and add some fresh fuel. Mix fuel and oil precisely in the ratios specified by the manufacturer. 

• Dirty air filter: A clogged air filter can easily cause the blower engine to receive too much fuel and not enough air, often resulting in a poor start (or failure to start). So check and clean it if needed.

• Engine flooded: If the engine is flooded, simply squeeze and hold the throttle. Pull the starter cord in a steady and controlled motion until the leaf blower starts.

• Spark plug problem: When you turn on the leaf blower and it just "rattles" or won't start, the spark plug is bad or faulty and needs to be replaced. Remove and inspect the spark plug. Replace if corroded, blackened or damaged. Spark plugs usually need to be replaced after about 100 hours of use.

• carburetor problem: The carburetor's job is to ensure the correct mix of air and fuel is directed to the blower's engine. The carburetor can become clogged, which makes it difficult for air and fuel to enter the engine.

Conclusion

Now you know how to start a leaf blower, you can easily remove a pile of leaves from your garden. If you follow all the steps mentioned above, you should be able to start your machine quickly, easily, and effortlessly.

However, each model has a unique startup procedure, so it's impossible to describe them precisely. Be sure to read the owner's manual before starting the machine.

Leaf blowers are handy throughout winter and fall as a seasonal item. 

If you're in the market for high-quality, reliable leaf blowers, BISON invite you to explore our extensive range of leaf blowers. We offer:

• A diverse selection of top-tier products

• Expert advice and guidance

• Competitive bulk pricing

Don't miss out on the chance to equip your team with the best tools in the industry. Contact our sales staff today to receive a customized quote tailored to your specific needs. Let us help you elevate your business to new heights.