Toro Rake & Vac 10 Amp Electric Blower/Vacuum 51573 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I gave up trying to use the muclhing feature. The machine does not have enough power to effectively vacuum my large oak leaves leaves. However, It does work on small amounts of little and very dry leaves.
As an electric leaf blower, it operates as described. The convience of electric means trading messy gas motors for a cord that trails. It is more powerful than the price would suggest, yet it is not a proffessional grade blower.
The bottom line is that it is convienent for blowing leaves from decks and porches, and it can vacuum up 'easy' leaves in small areas like window wells.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Toro Rake & Vac 10 Amp Electric Blower/Vacuum 51573

Click here for more information about Toro Rake & Vac 10 Amp Electric Blower/Vacuum 51573

ECHO Shred-N-Vac Plus Blows up to 135 mph Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought the Echo Shred-N-Vac a few months ago and it has worked well for me. When I set it up to vaccum for the first time it was a little awkward but, after I did it a couple of times it became easy. I use it for getting the leaves out of the rock areas in my landscaping. For this purpose it works great and if you suck something up that can't by shredded you simply turn the switch to OFF and let it roll out of the tube. The machine starts back up with just one pull. Simple. Leaves are ground into a fine mulch, I think that expecting a hand held blower/vac to grind up pine cones is a bit unreasonable. This machine is great for leaves but not for small sticks and the like. If you need to grind up pine cones and branches you should probably spring for an industrial chipper shredder. It works great for me and I like knowing it comes with a 5 year warranty.

Click Here to see more reviews about: ECHO Shred-N-Vac Plus Blows up to 135 mph

The Echo ES-210 with a 21.2 cc Power Boost VortexTM engine is ideal for residential lawn maintenance and can be used as a handheld shredder/vacuum or converted to a handheld blower (pipes included). A Fully adjustable throttle lock allows for ease of use.

Click here for more information about ECHO Shred-N-Vac Plus Blows up to 135 mph

Toro Rake & Vac 10.5 Amp 2-Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum 51574 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
The Toro 10.5 Amp 2-Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum #51574 is a nice unit that has the power to handle most yards. While not as powerful as some of the gas powered leaf blowers, this guy really wins on convenience. Being able to quickly finish a small area without having to worry about the correct mixture of oil and gasoline is worth the trade offs. It won't satisfy the professional landscaper or the homeowner trying to groom 2 acres, but it's going to meet the needs of many people with average sized lawns.
In my case, I actually do own a gas powered unit by Poulan and a different Toro electric model. While the gas unit has some nice extra features and great power, I have found that after not starting it in a while it is difficult to start up again. So this Toro unit eliminates that problem, because whenever I have to quickly gather up fresh fallen leaves I can just plug it in and go.
Now one of the drawbacks to an electric leaf blower is just that, dealing with having to plug it in and managing the extension cord. I have found that I can do about 3000 square feet within 4 hours. It only takes me a little while to move the cord around as I work.
Just one note about extension cords. These blowers do use a fair amount of electricity. So don't skimp on the extension cord. Make sure you use a grounded cord that is rated for exterior use. I err on the side of caution and use a contractor grade exterior extension cord, because it's important to be safe when using electrical equipment. Some of the better ones on Amazon are made by Coleman such as the Coleman Cable 02469 14/3 100-Foot Hi-Visibility/Low-Temperature Outdoor Extension Cord or the Coleman Cable 02569 12/3 100-Foot Hi-Visibility/Low-Temperature Outdoor Extension Cord. While those prices may seem high, they are an affordable way to have peace of mind when using electric power tools outdoors.Pros
+ The blower has enough power to move dirt and leaves well
+ Requires no regular maintenance other than basic surface cleaning
+ More convenient than gas powered units that require fuel and oil mixing
+ The plug tucks neatly and securely into a small rear hook, so it won't come loose
+ The rear bar also allows you to keep your extension cord tied securely
+ The price is pretty good, and much less than a gas powered unit
+ The looping handle and front bar allow you two handed control
+ The air intake has a grate for easy access to remove debris
+ The power dial is located conveniently under the handle
+ The included nozzle concentrates air flow into powerful bursts
+ Leaf vac option, though not with much power (see below)
Cons
- Less power than a gas powered unit for larger properties or frequent use
- This model doesn't shred leaves very much, best used as a blower only
- Has a slightly noisy motor when on high, though this is true of most blowers
- Have to purchase and use extension cords, which add a little cost
- The front nozzle is not very durable and will wear with use
- The unit is not well balanced so you must shift it from hand to hand
- The cost of electricity will exceed that of gas for very large yards, so keep that in mindThere are some cons as you can see, but they are relatively minor. Despite the shortcomings, this is a great unit to supplement your gas powered blower or completely replace it if your needs are less. I find I use this unit much more than my gas powered unit simply out of the convenience of not having to constantly tune up the other unit before use. While this one has less power and a few less features, it's more than enough to meet my week to week needs during the fall. You should check it out.
Enjoy.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Toro Rake & Vac 10.5 Amp 2-Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum 51574

Click here for more information about Toro Rake & Vac 10.5 Amp 2-Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum 51574

Factory-Reconditioned Makita BHX2500-R Blower - 24.5 cc Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I took a chance on a reconditioned unit and this time it paid off. I bought the unit more out of curiosity since I liked the idea of a little 4 stroke engine with rocker arms, valves, and such. I have been fascinated with small engines since I was a child. This blower is manufactured by Dolmar which is now owned by Makita. Dolmar has a great reputation in the 2 stroke chainsaw market.
The only thing that looked used was the gas cap. It was a little chewed up on the outside. Upon receiving the unit I checked the oil and added about an ounce since it was low, added straight gas, turned the switch to "ON", applied the choke and it cranked on the first pull. After a few seconds I turned the choke off and went to work.
The unit is rated at 365 CFM and 145 MPH. I believe those specs are generous based on my experience with leaves on blacktop. These new 4 strokes still don't match the performance of 2 strokes - yet. The engine creates just as much vibration through the handle as 2 strokes but the frequency is a lot lower. The sound is still loud but again at a lower frequency (yes you will still need ear protection unless you want to be deaf during your golden years). The cruise control doesn't hold full throttle for long but I am going to see if there are any adjustments that can be made to change that. The unit does seem to sip gas though which could be a real savings in the long term.
There are some drawbacks to 4 strokes that you should be aware of. You will have to change the engine oil at some point and dispose of the waste oil properly. In this case Makita recommends checking the oil level every 10 hours and changing it in 20 hours the first time, every 50 hours subsequently. The unit does not have an oil filter so I would never go more than 10 or 15 hours between oil changes. 4 strokes cannot be turned upside down while running and this unit can only be turned on one side (recoil starter side up) or the engine oil will leak into the combustion chamber and cause exhaust smoke and oil consumption. 4 strokes also have to be stored in an upright position or the same problems as previously mentioned will occur. Also, almost all 4 strokes require periodic valve adjustments. Makita recommends this adjustment at 200 hours. What is strange though is that Makita also recommends a complete engine rebuild at 200 hours. For most homeowners, it would take 6 to 10 years to put this many hours on a leaf blower of this type. I called the Makita National Service Center just to find out what an engine rebuild would cost and much to my amazement the price was $400.00; so basically the unit is a doorstop after 200 hours if it needs major service. This little engine idles at 3500 RPM and maxes out at 7800 RPM and for a 4 stroke this is high performance (and fast wear). As stated previously though, it should last several years until the next generation 4 strokes enter the market. Just keep clean oil and fresh gas in it and it should last for quite some time.
Final Thoughts - If you have big jobs, 2 strokes or hybrid 4 strokes (Stihl 4 MIX) units are the only way to go at this time. This unit is good for blowing leaves and clippings off of driveways, sidewalks, and decks but not much more. Most homeowners in residential areas with a small lot and few trees will probably like this blower. The unit performs as advertised but the prospective buyer will have to realize its limitations. I am sure improvements in performance will take place when more 4 stroke equipment starts to enter the market in the future. I gave it four stars for ingenuity but really three stars for performance because the 4 stroke performance and longevity is just not quite there yet with comparable 2 stroke units.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Factory-Reconditioned Makita BHX2500-R Blower - 24.5 cc

This is a factory reconditioned lawn and garden blower vac. Reconditioned generally means that the lawn and garden blower vac has been returned to the manufacturer, who brings the lawn and garden blower vac back to like new condition. Some lawn and garden blower vacs may contain cosmetic blemishes. Includes 24.5 cc Blower - BHX2500-R, Long Nozzle - 665-95009-00, Round End Nozzle - 665-95010-00, Tool Kit - 690-90590-00, Operating Manual

Get 61% OFF

Click here for more information about Factory-Reconditioned Makita BHX2500-R Blower - 24.5 cc

Remington RM191BV 12-Amp 200-MPH 10:1 Mulch Ratio Electric Blower / Vacuum / Mulcher Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Extremely powerful blower and vacuum. Very hefty and well made for what I consider to
be an off brand.The price was right. I used it in both modes vacuum and blower. It puts
my old weed eater to shame. Its a little on the heavy side but using the bag is quite
comfortable and it really picks up everything in its path. Im not too sure about the
longevity of the bag. It seems to be fairly lightweight and only time will tell. The
impeller seems to be made of a very heavyweight material (not metal) and should be
quite rugged in use. Changing from blower to vacuum is pretty straight forward and posed
no problems. It comes with a very decent manual and carries a 2 year warranty. Very
pleased so far and it was a lot cheaper than the other combos.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Remington RM191BV 12-Amp 200-MPH 10:1 Mulch Ratio Electric Blower / Vacuum / Mulcher

Click here for more information about Remington RM191BV 12-Amp 200-MPH 10:1 Mulch Ratio Electric Blower / Vacuum / Mulcher

Black & Decker LH4500 12 amp 2-Speed Electric Leaf Hog Blower / Vacuum with Leaf Bag Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I wanted to love this Leaf Hog. For the first day I owned it, I did love it. The honeymoon is now over though, and not everything is quite as rosy as I thought. Here's where we stand:
Pros:
-----
1) Mulches leaves very effectively
2) No significant problems with clogging
3) Lightweight, easy to maneuver
4) Easy to switch between blower/vacuum
5) Inexpensive
I primarily bought this to help me turn leaves into leaf mulch. It does that quite well. I now have nearly 2 cubic yards of well-shredded leaves to use as mulch and throw in the compost pile. I thought it was simple to put together, and it's easy to operate.
Cons:
-----
1) Collection bag is of very poor quality
2) Motor is obnoxiously loud
3) Some parts don't fit well
4) Vibration is excessive, and can cause health problems
Bad news...the collection bag developed a hole and some tears the second time I used it. The bags run $15-$20 or so. If I had to replace one each season, I might not be so upset. But at this rate I'll be spending more on bags every year than the initial cost of the blower itself. Unacceptable.
And this sucker is _loud_. It's not really a problem for me since I wear good hearing protection while operating machines like this, but I do worry that I'll annoy my neighbors if I use it frequently.
While it was easy to put together, the plastic tube that attaches to the motor housing fits poorly. Lots of dust and some other larger debris flies out of the mating surface where the pieces don't meet tightly enough.
The biggest negative of this product _for me_ is that the vibration is excessive. What's the big deal if it vibrates too much, you ask? Besides being uncomfortable to hold, it can actually lead to problems with the nerves in the hands and arms. There's something called Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) that can develop with repeated usage of tools like this. I'm not exactly sure what happened in my case (I don't believe I have 'HAVS'), but twice when I used it my hands and fingers became numb for an extended period of time. By "extended period" I mean 2-3 days. Now I just set it on the ground next to a pile of leaves and guide the leaves into the tube. Works fine.
If I can find the receipt, I'm thinking about returning this due to the defective/low-quality collection bag. If I do so, I might try the similar Toro Ultra 12 Amp Variable Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum With Metal Impeller #51599 which supposedly is much quieter -- and hopefully vibrates less as well.
I don't think this Black & Decker is a bad product. It works great, and it does so without a lot of pizazz or polish. Given the price, I can't really complain about how it performs. Obviously something about my physiology isn't compatible with the vibrations it produces, but I don't expect this to be a problem for most people.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Black & Decker LH4500 12 amp 2-Speed Electric Leaf Hog Blower / Vacuum with Leaf Bag

The Black & Decker Leaf Hog Electric Blower/Vacuum adds versatility and power to your tool collection. As a blower, the Leaf Hog can generate up to 240-mph air speed to clear matted leaves or sweep hard surfaces. Switch to the vacuum function, and the mulching mechanism devours and deposits up to 16 bags' worth of debris into the included rear bag.
Clears All Types of DebrisSweep your patio, workshop, or walkway clean, or use the 240-mph air speed to make quick work of wet, matted leaves in your yard. The Leaf Hog has a dual-speed switch to decrease air flow when you're working around delicate flower beds, patio furniture, or automobiles in your garage.
Gather and Mulch Leaves and TrimmingsThe Leaf Hog converts easily to a 385 CFM lawn vacuum when you want to collect loose leaves, twigs, and grass clippings. The internal mulching mechanism grinds everything down, compressing as much as 16 bags of debris down to one. The included bag detaches easily to empty your mulch in flower beds, gardens, or compost piles.
Lightweight for Comfortable, All-Day UseAn included shoulder strap adds extra support when you're using the Leaf Hog. Weighing in at just 8.1 pounds makes the blower/vacuum light enough for anyone to use for extended periods.
Low Noise Levels from the Environmentally Friendly MotorPower comes from a 12 Amp motor than runs on electricity--no need to mix oil and gasoline when you're ready to work. The electric motor greatly reduces the roar that's common with gasoline blowers to protect your hearing and reducing noise pollution.
The Electric Leaf Hog Blower/Vacuum is covered by a two-year warranty.
What's in the BoxLeaf Hog Electric Blower/Vacuum, tube with LeafBlaster nozzle, vacuum attachment with tube, leaf bag with zipper, adjustable shoulder strap, air concentrator

Get 49% OFF

Click here for more information about Black & Decker LH4500 12 amp 2-Speed Electric Leaf Hog Blower / Vacuum with Leaf Bag

Weed Eater GA2010 Gutter Cleaning Blower Attachment Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this gutter cleaning item several years ago and it was a lifesaver in our situation. Copper gutters on a lake house w/ LOTS trees - not an easy solution to keep gutters from clogging up but this item saved us a ton of money had we had to call in the professionals to clean our gutters multiple times per fall. We attached it to a small, 2 speed electric blower (round opening is a must.) If you have to get out a ladder to reach upper level gutters (which we don't)at least it is light weight and not too unwieldy. I am buying one today for our son. Make sure you check out the shape of opening on your blower.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Weed Eater GA2010 Gutter Cleaning Blower Attachment

Rain Gutter Attachment, For All Poulan/Weedeater Electric & Most Gas Blowers, Is Not Compatible With The FL1500LE, Cleans Leaves & Debris From Gutters While You Stand On The Ground,Pivoting T ube Directs Airflow, Assembled Length 10'.

Get 22% OFF

Click here for more information about Weed Eater GA2010 Gutter Cleaning Blower Attachment

Weed Eater WEB150 7-1/2-Amp Blower Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This little guy pumps a lot of power. When I turned it on "WHOSH" the air flow was dynamic. I only need it for small jobs (blowing out my garage and patio) but this product can easily be used for much more major jobs. This little fella is power+. Outstanding product.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Weed Eater WEB150 7-1/2-Amp Blower

The Weed Eater 7-1/2-Amp electric blower (WEB150) is ideal for cleaning sidewalks and driveways after cutting the grass, and is perfect for cleaning out the garage. It's compact and light weight size (4-1/2-Pound) delivers power as well as ease of use.

Get 4% OFF

Click here for more information about Weed Eater WEB150 7-1/2-Amp Blower

Troy-Bilt TB720R Trimmer Plus 145 MPH Blower Attachment With Two Nozzles Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The product is easy to use and performs very well. There are two different nozzles (a wide and narrow style) supplied. I used the wide nozzle to clear off the patio and sidewalk and it worked fast with good control. A four star rating is given as the unit does produce a loud high pitch sound especially at high RPM. As with many power tools, hearing protection is suggested when using this product. Other than the noise it produces, a five star rating would be in order.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Troy-Bilt TB720R Trimmer Plus 145 MPH Blower Attachment With Two Nozzles

Add On Blower Attachment, Up To 145 MPH Airflow Velocity, Clears Large Areas Fast, Includes 2 Multi-Purpose Nozzles, Concentrated For Hard To Reach Places & Flare Design For Large Areas, Fits Trimmer Plus Models By Ryobi & Yard-Man, Troy-Bilt Plus Most Attachment Capable Units On The Market.

Click here for more information about Troy-Bilt TB720R Trimmer Plus 145 MPH Blower Attachment With Two Nozzles

Swisher Vacuum Hose Wand Attachment Kit 10756 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I was pleased at first at the ease of use, but then the hose kept getting
loose or coming off completely! The "compression" band is not the best method of clamping a corrugated hose. The second time I used it the plastic under the handle completely broke out. Now I have to hold the hose with my hands to vacuum with it. Very cheap design especially considering what I paid. The Swisher vacuum itself works great but this hose extension kit is a poor buy. I would not recommend it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Swisher Vacuum Hose Wand Attachment Kit 10756

The Swisher vacuum hose and wand attachment kit works with your Swisher lawn vacuum to pick up clumps of leaves and grass effortlessly. The hose is lightweight and features a long wand with easy-to-grip handle, allowing you to stand up comfortably while directing the hose. The hose is 15 feet in length and 4 inches across. This product attaches easily to the Swisher Lawn Vac with a single clamp, and comes with a hose adapter to convert from 6 to 4.

Click here for more information about Swisher Vacuum Hose Wand Attachment Kit 10756