Surprising Uses of the Leaf Blower that Goes Beyond the Garden

The humble leaf blower is no longer just a garden essential. According to Kate Muir, Owner/Director at Turf & Timber Quip, this versatile tool offers a surprising range of uses for both domestic and agricultural purposes.

“Leaf blowers provide a powerful gust of air, making them ideal for a variety of tasks beyond clearing leaves,” says Muir. “The convenience of cordless models adds to their appeal.”

Muir shares some unexpected ways to utilise your leaf blower (and hints that the more you use it, the more applications you’ll discover): 

The most critical alternative use for a leaf blower is fire control. Fires pose a significant threat to farms and smallholdings, especially during dry winter months. Regularly burning firebreaks is essential for farmers, but uncontrolled fires can cause significant damage.

“Many people don’t realise that leaf blowers can be highly effective in managing fires,” explains Muir. “Certain models, like the Husqvarna 578BTF, boast heat-resistant nozzles, protected fuel lines, and filtration systems that prevent soot and dust from entering the engine.”

This makes them ideal for back burning (directing the fire back onto itself) or controlling burns when creating firebreaks. 

Clogged gutters can be a real nuisance, particularly during heavy rain when they overflow. Simply blowing out leaves and debris every few months with your leaf blower can save you considerable time and effort. 

Whether you’re cleaning garden equipment like mowers and trimmers, tidying a pathway after planting flowers, or even clearing sawdust from your workshop floor, a leaf blower is an efficient and effortless solution. It reaches nooks and crannies far more effectively than a broom or brush, requiring minimal physical exertion.

Your leaf blower can even help clean your vacuum cleaner filter! Simply hold the blower nozzle over the filter opening and blast away any dust or debris (ensure you’re outdoors when doing this!). 

Need to guide a wire through a tight space or pipe? Attach a weight (like a folded cloth or sponge) to the wire and use your leaf blower to propel it through. 

Instead of using a chamois or waiting for your car to air dry (which can leave streaks), a leaf blower can quickly dry your car, leaving it spotless and streak-free. This technique can also be used for drying outdoor furniture or wet carpets, accelerating the drying process.

“A leaf blower has become an invaluable tool for both avid gardeners and farmers,” concludes Muir. “Having this multifunctional gem in your arsenal alongside your other gardening essentials is a worthwhile investment.”

For more information on Husqvarna’s range of leaf blowers and other equipment, visit https://www.husqvarna.com/ke/