September 2007
| Types Choose a blower that suits your yard and your cleanup chores |
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Electric handheld |
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| Best for small to medium-sized properties where work takes place near an outlet and for those with less arm strength. Least noisy
for neighbors. But the electric motor's cord can be a hassle to maneuver and typically limits use to within 100 feet of an outlet. Price About $30 to $100 |
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Gas handheld |
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| Best for small to medium-sized properties with obstacles or where some of your cleanup work is far from an outlet. But they're pricier and heavier, and they require pull-starting and maintenance. Most are noisier than electrics. Price About $80 to $220 |
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Gas backpack |
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| Best for properties one-half acre and larger with obstacles; also good if you have less arm strength. Most provide added air power. But issues are the same as for gas handheld models, plus a higher price and no vacuum mode. Price About $200 to $450 |
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Gas wheeled |
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| Best for properties one-half acre and larger where ultimate blowing power is needed. But they're pricey, heavy, difficult to maneuver, and noisy. Most require about 8 square feet of storage space. No vacuum mode. Price About $650 to $1,300 |
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