A backpack blower is a snow removal tool worn on the back, like a backpack. It consists of a blower unit and a harness system that helps distribute the weight evenly across the body. Snow removal with a backpack blowers can be a great alternative to traditional snow shovels as they are designed to be easy to carry and use.
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Features Of A Quality Snow Removal Backpack Blower?
When searching for a backpack blower, there are certain features to look for to get the most bang for your buck.
You want a blower that is powerful enough to blow the snow where you want it to go. If you have a lot of snow, you may need a more powerful blower. However, blowers can be expensive, and you don’t want to spend more than you have to on a blower.
The larger and more powerful the size of the blower, the heavier it is. Try to purchase a blower that fits your needs so the blower’s weight does not become an issue for you. You want a blower that is lightweight and easy to carry. If you have to carry it up and down stairs or on a steep incline, you will want a lighter blower.
Gas vs. Electric vs. Cordless Blowers: Pros & Cons
There are three types of backpack blowers: electric, gas, and battery-powered. Your house electricity powers via a cord are used to power the pack. With a battery-powered pack, batteries are charged and inserted into the pack to provide the power source. Electric and battery-powered backpacks are typically smaller and lighter than gas models. Gas backpack blowers are powered by gasoline and tend to be more powerful than electric or battery-powered models.
Each option has its benefits and drawbacks. First, consider the size of the unit. Backpack blowers come in various sizes, so choosing one that will be comfortable for you to wear and use is important.
The depth of snow that a backpack blower can handle depends on the model. Some blowers will only work on light snow, while others can handle deeper snowdrifts. Electric and battery-powered models are generally best for light snow, while gas models can handle deeper snow.
Some backpack blowers have additional features, such as vacuum attachments, that make them more versatile seasonally. Each option has its own set of pros and cons.
Gas Powered Blowers:
Pros: Gas-powered blowers are usually more powerful than electric or cordless blowers. They can also be used for more extended periods without needing to be recharged or refilled.
Cons: Gas-powered blowers are usually heavier, louder, and smellier than their counterparts. It can also be challenging to start in cold weather.
Electric Blowers:
Pros: Electric blowers are usually lighter and quieter than gas-powered blowers. They are easier than gas-powered blowers to start in cold weather.
Cons: Electric blowers are not as powerful as gas-powered blowers. They also need to be plugged into an outlet, which can be problematic if you have a large area to clear. Finally, the cord is an added cost; be sure to use a winter or cold rate cord.
Cordless or Battery Powered Blowers:
Pros: Cordless blowers are usually lighter and quieter than gas-powered blowers. They are also easy to start and don’t require an outlet.
Cons: Cordless blowers are not as powerful as gas or electric blowers. The batteries run down quicker in cold weather, so they must be recharged or refilled more often.
The Debate: Snow Removal With A Backpack Blower vs. By Hand
There are pros and cons to snow removal by hand and using a backpack blower.
Manual labour, in general, is always less expensive than using equipment. Though great exercise, the cost of snow removal by hand is not reflected in the tools used but rather in the body of the person using the device. In addition, snow removal by hand can be time-consuming and difficult, especially if you have a large property or area to clear or the snow is packed down, wet and heavy.
On the other hand, a backpack blower can be a quick and easy way to remove snow from your property. It is also less physically demanding than snow removal by hand, so the job will be done faster, getting you inside to keep warm or do other projects. Backpack blowers can be less expensive than other snow removal options, such as hiring a professional snow removal service, but they are not as effective in deep snow. Price-wise, snow removal by hand is less expensive in the short term, but it can be loud and disruptive.
If your looking to resolve the debate of plastic vs. metal shovels head over to our guide Metal Snow Shovel Vs. Plastic Snow Shovel, The Winner Is? for the answer.
Is MPH Or CFM Better?
MPH (miles per hour) measures the blower’s airspeed, while CFM (cubic feet per minute) measures the blower’s air volume. Both are essential factors to consider when choosing a blower. However, MPH is generally more important for snow removal, while CFM is more important for leaves and other light debris.
The most powerful backpack blower is the Husqvarna 570BTS. This blower has a max air speed of 251 MPH and a max air volume of 910 CFM. It also features a voyager harness system that makes it comfortable to wear for long periods.
TIPS FOR USING A BACKPACK BLOWER
If you want to try using a blower on snow, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
- Blowers can be loud, so it is essential to wear ear protection.
- They create a lot of snow dust, so it is necessary to wear eye protection.
- A blower can throw small objects, so it is important to keep people and pets away from the area where you are using the blower. In addition, debris in the snow, such as rocks, can be blown by the snowblower and cause serious injury, so do not put your face, hands, or feet near the snowblower while it is in use.
- Gas blowers produce carbon monoxide gas, so it is important to use them in well-ventilated areas.
- It is essential to ensure the snow is not too deep. If the snow is too deep, the blower might be unable to move it effectively.
- Using the blower safely is vital and avoide blowing snow into the street or onto the neighbour’s property.
Following these tips can safely and effectively use a blower on snow.
How to Properly Maintain Your Blower To Avoid Damage & Breakdowns
There are a few different parts of a backpack blower. The blower housing is the part of the blower that contains the blower engine and vent. There is a wire connection from the engine to main switch.
The blower handle/trigger is the part of the blower turns the blower on and determines the speed in which you blow. The blower chute is the part of the blower that directs air out of the blower.
Finally, the snowblower handle is the snowblower part that you hold onto while operating the snowblower.
If you want your blower to last for many years, like all tools, you need to maintain it. Basic maintenance includes:
– Read the owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
– Keep the blower clean and free of debris.
– Inspect the blower regularly for any signs of damage or wear.
– Replace any worn or damaged parts immediately.
– Store the blower in a dry, protected place when not in use.
Final Thoughts
Backpack blowers can be an excellent investment if you need to remove snow from your property regularly. The positive is that they can save you time and money and are quick and easy to use.
If you have a small area to clear and don’t mind the exercise, snow removal by hand might be the way to go. However, a backpack blower might be better if you have a large area, lots of stairs or want a more straightforward job.
A backpack blower might not be the best choice if you want a quiet, low-cost snow removal option. However, if you are looking for an efficient way to remove snow from your property, a backpack blower is worth considering.
