How to Troubleshoot a Leaf Blower

Leaf blowers have a small engine which is easy to troubleshoot.

A leaf blower is a small, engine-powered tool which generates a powerful air flow that helps clear leaves, dirt and debris from the lawn and the home driveway. Leaf blowers come in both electric and gas models. These engines are fairly small, and don't require a lot of maintenance. Although a leaf blower usually has a long life, you might run into trouble on occasion with a few of the components. Knowing how to troubleshoot your leaf blower will prevent expensive, professional repairs.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Screwdriver

Instructions

Gas Powered

1. Check the gas tank for the correct amount of gas. The tank may have a fill line. If not, fill the tank almost to the top.

2. Set the choke to the run position if you smell gas when trying to start the engine. The unit is likely flooded, meaning there is too much fuel in the carburetor for the engine to start. Pull the starter rope repeatedly until the engine starts. Move the choke throttle to the low run position, marked "low."

3. Check for kinked fuel lines if the unit does not start and you still smell gas. Take the unit to a professional if you still smell gas and kinked lines are not apparent.

4. Pull the spark plug out of the unit, using a wrench or spark plug puller. Inspect the contacts for signs of rust or dirt. Replace a corroded spark plug with a new one.

5. Remove the air filter cover by pressing in the cover tabs, or removing the screw holding it in place. Pull out the air filter and inspect it for dirt. Clean the filter according to your manual instructions or replace it if necessary.

Electric Powered

1. Check the power cord if the unit will not start. Look for any signs of damage. Plug the end into a working outdoor outlet.

2. Press the red reset button on your outlet if it has one to reset the circuit breaker. Check the circuit breaker inside the home if the outlet still won't work .

3. Charge the battery of your leaf blower if it is a battery-powered unit using an approved charger.

4. Take your unit to a service professional if there is grinding in the engine.

References

• Repair FAQ; Notes on the Troubleshooting and Repair of Small Gasoline Engines and Rotary Lawn Mowers; Samuel M. Goldwasser; Dec. 5, 2010
• Manage My Life; Maintaining and Troubleshooting a Leaf Blower; Dave Toht; 2010