How to use your leaf blower every season of the year – CNET [CNET]

October 16, 2021 Thomas Giboney technology

black-and-decker-leaf-blower1 — Leaf blowers like this one from Black and Decker are great for fall chores but can help with much more.

Black and Decker

Leaf blowers aren’t just for autumn and blowing those pesky fall leaves into a pile. The weather will change each season and it may become difficult to get outside (especially during those chilly winters), but the need for backyard maintenance remains constant. Thankfully, your leaf blower can adapt to any season.

Leaf blowers offer unique versatility. They can help keep your yard looking great while pitching in with other projects around your home. This guide will show you some of the ways you can use them all year round.

Spring

Once winter thaws, it’s time for some spring yard cleaning. After the snow and ice melts, it’s common to find lawn debris that’s accumulated from the previous fall. There could be everything from fallen leaves, scattered branches and even old grass clippings strewn across your yard. Don’t worry, a leaf blower comes in handy here.

But before you dive right in, first check around for pebbles, gravel, glass or other hard or sharp objects. The last thing you want is to send dangerous projectiles flying into the air and ricocheting everywhere. Moreover, it’s a good idea to wear eye goggles, the sort that run flush with your face. This prevents debris from entering your eyes where it could cause serious injury.

Along with clearing debris from your property, you can take advantage of the warmer weather to inspect your home’s roof. Check for any debris in the gutters such as old leaves or branches. While you can remove any material the old fashioned way, by standing on a ladder, it’s a bit dangerous.

A less risky method is to buy an after-market leaf blower attachment designed for cleaning gutters. This way you won’t need to teeter precariously as you clear your gutters by hand.