Gas blowers are still the fastest way to clear a yard full of leaves. More are also quieter, especially at the 50-foot distance used for most noise limits. But our tests of more than 50 models show that lower prices and comparable performance for the best electric blowers make them a smart choice for most homeowners, especially if your leaf clearing is within 100 feet of a power outlet.
Some corded-electric models we tested swept away leaves and loosened stubborn debris almost as well as our top gas blowers. And many gas models are far less noisy than older versions, while electrics are still quieter overall. That's good news, particularly if your community is among the scores of municipalities with gas-blower regulations. You'll also see cordless-electric blowers that combine the ease of a corded blower with the mobility of a gas model--though those we've tested have been pricey and offered relatively little run time before their batteries need recharging.
Many areas prohibit unreasonable noise, including the whine of a blower, during certain hours--say, between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. But some areas prohibit any blower louder than 70 decibels at 50 feet, and a few limit noise to 65 decibels (about as loud as a window air conditioner on high). Some gas blowers and all the electrics met the 70-decibel limit in our industry tests at 50 feet. And at 65 decibels or less in our latest tests, a few gas-powered blowers matched the quietest electrics we tested. Staying on good terms with your neighbors might be the best reason to choose a less-raucous blower, wherever you live.
