how to store a leaf blower

3 min read 31-01-2025

Leaf blowers are powerful tools that make quick work of yard cleanup. But to keep your leaf blower running smoothly for years to come, proper storage is crucial. This guide covers the best practices for storing your leaf blower, whether it's gas-powered, electric corded, or battery-powered. Proper storage protects your investment and ensures it's ready to tackle autumn leaves or spring cleanup.

Preparing Your Leaf Blower for Storage

Before storing your leaf blower, you need to prepare it. This step is vital regardless of the leaf blower type. Neglecting this can lead to damage and shorten the lifespan of your machine.

1. Cleaning Your Leaf Blower

Gas-powered blowers: Empty the fuel tank completely. Old gas can gum up the engine and cause problems when you next use it. Run the engine until it sputters to use up remaining fuel.
All types: Thoroughly clean the blower's exterior. Remove any dirt, leaves, or debris. Use a brush and compressed air to get into tight spots. A damp cloth can remove stubborn dirt.
Air Filters: Clean or replace the air filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow, impacting performance and potentially damaging the engine. Refer to your owner's manual for cleaning instructions.

2. Inspecting for Damage

Carefully inspect your leaf blower for any signs of damage. Check the housing, nozzle, and other components for cracks or breaks. Address any damage before storing to prevent further problems.

3. Lubrication (Gas-Powered Blowers)

For gas-powered leaf blowers, lubricate moving parts as recommended in your owner's manual. This prevents rust and ensures smooth operation when you next use it.

4. Cooling Down (Gas-Powered Blowers)

Allow the engine of your gas-powered blower to completely cool down before storage. Storing a hot engine can damage internal components.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

Where you store your leaf blower is just as important as how you prepare it.

Dry Environment: Moisture is the enemy of leaf blowers. Choose a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent rust and corrosion. A garage or shed is ideal, provided it's dry. Avoid damp basements or attics.
Temperature: Extreme temperatures can damage certain components. Ideally, store in a place with moderate temperatures, away from direct sunlight or extreme heat and cold.
Protection from Dust and Debris: Keep your leaf blower covered to prevent dust and debris accumulation.

Storing Your Leaf Blower

The specific storage method depends on the type of leaf blower.

Storing a Gas-Powered Leaf Blower

Fuel Stabilizer: Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank before storage if you won't be using it for an extended period (more than a month). This prevents fuel from going bad.
Vertical or Horizontal? Store the blower upright or horizontally, whichever your manual recommends. Check the manufacturer's guidelines.
Protective Cover: Use a leaf blower cover to protect it from dust and moisture.

Storing an Electric Corded Leaf Blower

Unplug and Coil Cord: Unplug the blower and neatly coil the cord to prevent damage. Store the cord separately if possible.
Clean and Dry: Clean and dry the blower completely before storing.
Protective Cover (Optional): A cover can protect it from dust.

Storing a Battery-Powered Leaf Blower

Remove and Charge Battery: Remove the battery and charge it to around 40-50% capacity before long-term storage. Storing a fully charged or completely depleted battery can reduce its lifespan.
Clean and Dry: Clean and dry the blower thoroughly.
Protective Cover (Optional): A cover is a good idea to protect against dust.

Long-Term Storage Considerations

For extended periods of storage (several months or longer), consider the following:

Drain the carburetor (gas-powered): If storing for a very long time, completely draining the carburetor is advisable (Consult your manual for instructions).
Battery Maintenance: For battery-powered blowers, check the battery charge periodically during long-term storage.
Regular Inspection: Even in storage, check on your leaf blower occasionally to make sure it's not showing any signs of damage or deterioration.

By following these steps, you'll ensure your leaf blower stays in top condition, ready for use whenever you need it. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for specific storage recommendations.