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Better Homes & Gardens
If you ’re a homeowner , you jazz that elucidate leaves and rubble from your lawn can be a tedious job . Whilea leaf blower is helpfulin moving it off your grass , a leaf vacuum is a groovy room to ensure it does n’t return .
To rule the safe folio vacancy , we tested several model at home base on our lawns . We evaluated each plectron on their repose of use , design , and performance , as well as any extra features .
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
What We Researched
We evaluated several leafage vacuums on theirease of use , design , andperformance . For more data on how we test leaf vacuum , check out our examination process below .
Our Top Picks
Best Walk-Behind
Billy Goat Self-Propelled KV Lawn and Litter Vacuum
It ’s sinewy and effective on different types of debris , with prosperous operation and visceral command .
It ’s more expensive than other alternative .
During testing , the Billy Goat Lawn Vacuum blew us aside in more ways than one . This lawnmower - like machine is made with several helpful features , including varying summit accommodation to accommodate multiple substance abuser .
Credit: Lowe’s
We put this model to work out on a large 1.5 - acre yard with a concrete pavement and mineral pitch private road , and plenty of oak tree leaves and acorns to clean up . It clean up around 90 % of garden dust and we liked that it can alsomulch at a 6 - to-1 ratio .
Assembly instruction were exhaustive and perceivable , and it practically number ready to go straight from the box . All we had to do was affix the throttle lever tumbler on the handlebar , the clutch cable , and the handbag . We also had to add oil , which we purchased on an individual basis .
This vacuum has a single throttle / kill switch lever tumbler , and a ginmill that activate the self - propel characteristic . We like that it is handily located right where your hands go to steer . The throttle is adjustable , and we were able to set the accurate amount of vacuum power needed for various garden cleansing tasks .
We appreciated the high-quality wheels of this model, which made it even easier to maneuver.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
The unit has high-pitched - quality bicycle that help it move along , but the ego - propel routine is the genuine genius of the show . Despite being a heavier example , it was incredibly easy to maneuver and felt jackanapes for its sizing .
The collection bag , which needed to be discharge every 20 bit or so , is held on with straps and two small locks , and was a cinch to get on and off . Although it was effective , we would have preferred its 27 - column inch clearing width to be a bit wider .
We noted that this vac is n’t too loud and set out quickly and easily . Although it ’s an investment , we found it to be a hefty piece of music of equipment that ’s great for those with heavy yards .
Product item : Weight:116 pound |Power Source : Gas |Maximum Air Volume:1,700 cfm |Maximum Air hurrying : Not listed
Key Terms to Know
Best Cordless
Greenworks 40V Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower / Vacuum
It ’s impregnable and easy to set up and use .
It ’s a bit heavier than some other hand-held models .
For a powerful and ergonomic folio vacuum that can tackle various yard job , we commend the two - in - one Greenworks 40V Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower / Vacuum .
This model issue forth with a void tube , a blower thermionic tube , and a collection bag . The vacuum tubing is bigger than the blower ’s , but both are light enough to maneuver , even for extended period . The zippered bagful has a 17 - gallon capacity and is attached to the vacuum connection — it can stay there until you need to empty it .
Setting up this leaf vacuum was easy thanks to straightforward instructions with only four unsubdivided steps . There ’s a latch that open up and closes to change the blower single-valued function to a vacuum , and frailty versa . Also include is a battery and a charger .
charge the stamp battery takes one to two hours , and the unit can head for the hills for around 20 minute on a full charge ; we were able-bodied to use it after three mowing sessions before it ran out of juice . There ’s even an index number on the handle that shows the amount of barrage life left .
Operating this model ’s two freestanding functions was nonrational as they ’re both controlled with the same buttons . There ’s a trigger clitoris that you could hold up down if you ’re using it on a small region .
There ’s also a turbo button that gives the auto a boost , and bring without you suffer to keep the trigger pressed . We appreciated that there ’s also a speed dial to correct the wind speed or suction power while holding the trigger .
Plus , we peculiarly appreciated the cetacean ’s extra stick out ergonomic handlebar that allowed us to not only hold it , but also use two manus to well direct it overall .
In terms of performance , this pick expeditiously vacuumed grass and weed debris on various surfaces , admit concrete step , a drive , a terrace , landscaped brick , and even an outdoor carpeting . However , it did shin a little turn lifting clippings from the carpet after it had rain down .
We also noted that it only vacuums debris in its direct track , and not random object in the surrounding area . During examination , we found that its blowing feature was as as good .
Overall , we felt that this leaf vacuum has an average noise level ; it ’s not too loud , but you do have to switch it off if you desire to have a conversation .
Product Details : Weight:16.96 pounds |Power Source : Battery powered |Maximum Air Volume:505 cfm |Maximum Air Speed:230 mph
Best Corded
Worx Electric Leaf Blower/Leaf Vacuum/Mulcher
It ’s comfortable to use , easy to foregather , and effectively reduces debris loudness in mulching style .
It needs precise positioning for vacuuming .
For smaller and medium - sized yards , we recommend this unit from Worx . The example is three machine in one — a foliage emptiness , a foliage blower , and a mulcher — so you ’ll always be able to adjust it out how you see fit .
Credit: Amazon
During examination , the whole setup cognitive operation take less than two moment , as there are only three pieces to put together . Plus , it comes with step - by - footprint photo instructions that make it even gentle .
At under 10 pounds , the tool was comfortable to hold for long stretches , and we liked that there ’s an adjustable attachment for the cord to clip onto . The control are square , although the on / off switch needed to be push a small intemperately .
The dish on this exemplar has a large zip fastener on the side that makes emptying it easily , but it ’s spacious enough to check three round of drinks of post - mow lawn newspaper clipping before maxing out .
This Greenworks Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower/Vacuum effectively cleared debris from a variety of surfaces.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
We tested it out on a 164 - square - foot garden with both grass and concrete sections . It removed leaves that were damp from morning dew and clinging to moss , as well as honest-to-goodness chunks of Gunter Grass snip that were also slenderly wet .
The mulcher did an excellent occupation reducing the mass of pot clippings and chop up the leaves effectively . In relation to the noise degree , it ’s about as loud as a veritable vacuum cleaner .
Our only queasiness with this model is that the vacuum pipe was positioned just below the leaf blower with a little opening , meaning that we had to set the angle extremely exactly to get the vacuum working properly . Sometimes it would struggle with older , slightly dampish clumps of grass trim , but loosening them up with a rake beforehand helped a lot .
mathematical product Details : Weight:9.3 pounds |Power Source : Corded electrical |Maximum Air Volume:350 cfm |Maximum Air Speed:210 mph
The Bottom Line
For a powerful option that ’s less expensive than other picks , we recommend theWorx WG509 TRIVAC 3 - in-1 Electric Leaf Blower / Vacuum / Mulcher , our best twilled option . The unit is less than 10 pounds and ideal for belittled and average yard .
For big yard that need a machine with a lot of run time and more freedom of movement , the walk - behindBilly Goat Lawn Vacuumis your best stake . Our best walk of life - behind pick is herculean and ideal for different eccentric of junk .
TheGreenworks 40V Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower / Vacuumis great for anyone who would wish the ease of a corded unit , with the freedom of a natural gas - powered exemplar .
Our Testing Process
To find the best foliage vacuums , we tested several leaf vacuums at home in our yard . Each model was tested several times in different weather conditions , and in different part of the cubic yard , to measure its efficacy , relaxation of use , and overall performance .
After unboxing the leaf emptiness , we set up each product according to the producer ’s program line , and charged batteries or add fuel where applicable — all while noting how easy or time - consuming each tone was , and whether the instructions were clear .
Once we set about the tools started , we put them to use , evaluate how easy they were to function and maneuver , how comfortable they were for extended use , and whether the control were nonrational .
During examination , we also assessed how easy it was to attach , remove , and empty the collection bags . We particularly focalise on how in effect each product top or vacuumed leaf on different surfaces like supergrass , concrete , or landscape areas , and whether they performed well with both wet and juiceless leaves .
While using the leaf vacuums , we also tested out the other features , like mulching and blowing , where applicable . We look at the racket level of each auto , noting whether hearing protective covering was necessary , and looked at each detail ’s weight to find if it affected performance in any way , or caused any substance abuser fatigue .
What to Know About Leaf Vacuums Before Shopping
Weight
Handheld foliage vacuum can weigh anywhere between 8 and 20 pounds , but typically range between 10 to 13 pound . Walk - behind models like theBilly Goat Lawn Vacuum , our top gas pick , weigh around as much as your average lawnmower , sometimes well over 100 punt .
“ regard your strong-arm force and curtilage size , ” say McCoy . “ A light vacuum is easier to maneuver , particularly for extended economic consumption . ”
Power Source
foliage vacuums can be power by either an electrical outlet , a rechargeable battery , or gas .
Maximum Air Volume (cfm)
The maximum air loudness of a leaf electric fan / vacuity is measured in cubic understructure per hour ( cfm ) and refers to the air volume that is oust or take in from the machine ’s nozzle in 60 seconds . “ cfm is the key measure in vacuum musical mode , as this is the region of debris it can hoover up per second , ” Baker says .
A leaf blower / vacuum with a cfm rating of 100 will expel / suck up 100 cubic feet of air in one minute . Most leaf vacuums will have a cfm of somewhere around 300 to 500 .
The high the cfm a instrument has , the hard it is , and the more dust it can collect at once . For example , theWorx WG509 TRIVAC 3 - in-1 Electric Leaf Blower / Vacuum / Mulcherand theGreenworks 40V Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower / Vacuumhave around 350 cfm each , making them upright for the average - sized garden .
TheBilly Goat Lawn Vacuumoffers a whopping industrial - grade 1,700 cfm , make it a powerful pick for yards with a lot of leaves , lawn clippings , and other garden detritus to clear up .
Maximum Air Speed (measured in mph)
The maximal air speed of a folio vacuum concern to the rate at which air goes through the creature ’s nozzle and is measured in land mile per minute ( miles per hour ) . “ This measures the velocity of the air blown out , which helps dislodge wet or compact folio , ” says McCoy . A high aura speed allows the void to rustle heavy and/or stuck farewell . A model with an air - speed rating of around 150 to 200 mph is idealistic for residential use .
When shopping for your leaf vacuum , Baker says it ’s important to have a good combination of mph and cfm to clear leaf and debris away speedily and expeditiously . McCoy impart , “ When take a leaf vacuum , consider your specific yard size of it , the eccentric of debris you ’ll care , and your budget . By equilibrise weightiness , cfm , and miles per hour , you’re able to find the right creature for your yard maintenance . ”
Other Leaf Vacuums We Tested
LawnMaster Red Edition Electric Blower Vacuum Mulcher
TheLawnMaster Red Edition Electric Blower Vacuum Mulcheris a lightweight and less expensive creature that ’s powerful despite its petite size . It ’s effective for pavement and driveway cleanup on a smaller scale , and we thought the noise level was reasonable . All in all , it was comfortable and gentle to hold , but did start to finger heavy and make a turn of tiredness after protract use .
Ryobi 40V Vac Attack Cordless Leaf Vacuum/Mulcher
While theRyobi 40V Vac Attack Cordless Leaf Vacuum / Mulcherwas comfortable to operate with just two simple affair , had a impregnable suck , and exercise well across different eccentric of thousand debris . However , this unit is almost 13 pounds , so we found it quite ambitious to maneuver .
The suction was so muscular that it even rustle some of the smaller rocks , which could damage the mulching vane . The Vac Attack ’s hard plastic front wheels that are fixed in a front - facing position helped move it along on even surfaces , but made it risky on rough terrain . There ’s also no humble - barrage alert ; you only know that it ’s about to die when the motor gets sluggish .
Troy-Bilt Gas Powered Chipper Shredder Vacuum
The multifunctionalTroy - Bilt Gas Powered Chipper Shredder Vacuumoffers a hefty sucking , and a handy chute for prompt mulching of little control stick . We did , however , witness it quite unmanageable and cumbrous to coiffe up ( especially the hose ) , and the didactics were n’t very helpful . We used it on a quarter - Accho yard with prospicient eatage clippings and find it punishing , so it was difficult for one mortal to lift alone .
Your Questions, Answered
How much can I expect to spend on a leaf vacuum?
When shopping for a foliage vacuum , there are options at various price points . harmonize to McCoy , less expensive picks can be between $ 50 to $ 150 , while midrange units can cost up to about $ 300 .
Some high - end models , like theBilly Goat Lawn Vacuum , can cost over $ 1,000 . The more expensive , heavy - duty machines are suitable for professional usance , but many homeowners with larger properties find them worth the investing .
How does a leaf vacuum differ from a leaf blower and leaf mulcher?
According to McCoy , “ A folio vacuum is primarily used to suck up leafage and debris , while a leaf blower is design to bodge the leaves and debris away and move them into piles . ”
A leaf mulcher , on the other hand , is concenter on rip up leaves into smaller piece for mulch or compost . Some machines , like theGreenworks 40V Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower / Vacuum , can do it all .
Who We Are
This article was written byKat de Naoum , who has over 11 years of experience writing about shopping topics , include horticulture and lawn care . de Naoum has been writing for Dotdash Meredith since 2019 , andBetter Homes & Gardenssince 2021 . De Naoum is also an editor - at - declamatory at Thomas - Xometry , the leading U.S. online program for supplier find and mathematical product sourcing .
For this clause , she referenced examination insights collect from at - home use . She also spoke toStephen Baker , a class managing director at Greenworks Tools , and Lowe ’s stock managerGary McCoy .
What is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list , you may have acknowledge ourBHG Recommends seal of approval . Products that earn the seal have been put through stringent testing to verify they ’re worth a slur in your household . We purchase most of the Cartesian product we prove ourselves , but on occasion we are provided sample by companionship if buying is n’t an choice . In these caseful , we use the same examination criteria we use to prove the purchased product .
Credit: Lowe’s
This Worx model is a leaf vacuum, a leaf blower, and a mulcher all in one.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
