Introduction
A blower vac is a very handy tool around any home. It quickly and easily cleans up large outdoor areas of leaves, grass clippings, twigs and other garden debris. Blower vacs are ideal for clearing lawns, driveways, garages, decks, gardens and pavement. You no longer need to manually rake or sweep! 
 
You can use the blow function to clear leaves into piles - ideal to clear the garden without sucking up bark, shells or stones - and use the vacuum function to suck up the debris and mulch or shred it into the bag attached. This is a great way to recycle as you can add the garden mulch to your compost bin or use as mulch on your garden.
 

When you’re thinking about buying a blower vac your first decision is whether to choose a petrol or electric model. They suit different tasks - electric blower vacs are lighter and easy to start while petrol blower vacs are more powerful, great for the big jobs.
  

Features of Electric Blower Vacs

Corded or cordless blower vacs have specific advantages. They are both:

• Lighter and cleaner than petrol models.
• Easy to start. 
• Less expensive. 
• Do not require petrol or oil. 
• Good for small to medium jobs

Features of Petrol Blower Vacs

• A more powerful blower vac.
• No electric cord to get in your way or to restrict your movement.
• Good for bigger jobs or more frequent use.

Click here to browse a range of electric and petrol blower vacs from Mitre 10.
 

What to look for in a Blower Vac
Think about the different members of your family who may be using this tool – choose something that they can handle. Decide whether a Corded (mains powered) or Cordless (battery powered) or Petrol Powered model suits you.

Corded models generally offer more power than cordless models and include a bag to hold the shredded debris. A suitable extension cord is essential.
 

Cordless models offer extra mobility and convenience with freedom from extension cords and are lighter in weight. Some brands offer battery cross-compatibility from their power tools, a consideration worth making.

Shredding ratio is an important feature, this will define how often you will need to empty the bag. Also consider the bag capacity.

Motor power will not only indicate the units’ performance but will influence Blow Speed - particularly helpful when working with damp leaves.

A shoulder strap provides extra comfort and ease of use.
 
A wheel at the nose of the machine will enable you to rest the blower vac downwards and help reduce user fatigue. 
 

Variable speed - allows you to adjust the speed as conditions change.

A Flick Switch will quickly allow the user to adapt from blow to suck modes.
 

Keep it Safe

• Remember that any power tool can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Before using make a safety check of both the equipment and the work area. If you have any concerns seek advice.
• Read the operating manual and familiarize yourself with the equipment and safety procedures.
• Do not use the blower vac in or around water.
• Wear earmuffs to protect your ears from possible noise damage.
• When using an electric blower vac we recommend using an RCD – and ensure the cord is kept away from your feet.
• Always take care with the storage and use of petrol and oil.

See the Mitre 10 Personal Safety Gear for a range of protective ear muffs. 

This information has been compiled in conjunction with Black & Decker.