The landscape maintenance industry is under growing legislative scrutiny for its environmental and noise impacts. Among professional tools, the leaf blower is most frequently targeted due to its high decibel output and widespread use. In response, advancements in battery technology have introduced commercial-grade battery-powered alternatives. Despite this progress, many landscape professionals remain concerned about the work capacity and efficiency of battery-powered blowers compared to traditional gas-powered models. This study evaluated commercial gas and battery leaf blowers through controlled laboratory tests measuring runtime, task efficiency, output force, and sound levels. Results showed that some battery-powered models operated longer on a single charge than gas-powered blowers on a single tank of fuel. However, gas-powered blowers were 24% to 200% more effective in completing standardized tasks when operated by experienced users. This advantage stemmed from their ability to maintain high, consistent output throughout operation. In contrast, most battery-powered blowers sustained peak performance only briefly before throttling output to conserve energy, reducing their effective work capacity. Additionally, several battery models failed to meet manufacturer claims regarding output force. While battery blowers offered quieter operation—producing 20% to 26% lower decibel pressures than gas units—the performance tradeoffs remain a concern for high-demand applications. These results highlight the disparity between power sources in leaf blowers, one of the most frequently used tools in landscape maintenance, and emphasize the current limitations and tradeoffs involved in transitioning to battery-powered equipment under regulatory pressure.
