CFM vs. MPH for Leaf Blowers: What's the Difference?
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Shopping for a new leaf blower can be overwhelming with all the technical specs and performance metrics thrown at you. Amidst all the noise, you need to look out for two numbers: CFM (cubic feet per minute) and MPH (miles per hour).Â
These two metrics are the key to understanding your leaf blower's power and efficiency. But what exactly do they mean, and how do they impact your leaf blower's performance? In this guide, we'll demystify leaf blower CFM and MPH, helping you determine which is more important for your needs and how to make the best choice for your yard.
What Does CFM Mean on a Leaf Blower?
CFM (cubic feet per minute) measures the volume of air a leaf blower can move in one minute. The higher the number, the greater the amount of debris you can move. Need to blow huge piles of leaves across large landscaping areas? Go for the higher CFM option.
A few key points to remember:
CFM measures the volume of air.
Higher CFM = more debris moved.
Ideal for large areas.
What Does MPH Mean on a Leaf Blower?
MPH (miles per hour) measures the speed of the air that comes out of the leaf blower. Basically, it determines the force of the airflow or how heavy debris you can move. A higher MPH means the leaf blower can blast debris away with greater power, which is essential for wet or stubborn leaves and debris.
A few key points to remember:
MPH measures the speed of air.
Higher MPH = stronger airflow.
Ideal for stubborn or wet debris.
Which is Better: CFM or MPH?
CFM and MPH are important to consider when shopping for a leaf blower, but the best choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs.
High CFM: If you need to clear large areas with a lot of leaves and debris, a leaf blower with a high CFM is more efficient. It will move more at once, saving you time and effort.
High MPH: A high MPH leaf blower is your best bet if you're dealing with wet leaves or stubborn debris. The faster the airspeed, the better it is at dislodging heavier materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good CFM for a leaf blower?
A good CFM for most yards ranges between 400-700, depending on the size of the area you need to clear. However, 150-400 CFM should do the trick for smaller yards.
How many MPH is good for a leaf blower?
For most applications, a good MPH is around 110-200 MPH. Go for a higher MPH blower if you live in a wet climate and/or have particularly stubborn debris.
What Else to Consider When Shopping For a Leaf Blower
While CFM and MPH are crucial, make sure to consider these other factors when choosing your next leaf blower:
Gas vs. Electric: Gas-powered leaf blowers can offer more power but are heavier, louder, and require more maintenance. Electric blowers are more eco-friendly and easier to maintain, making them more practical for most homeowners.
Backpack Leaf Blowers vs. Handheld Leaf Blowers: Backpack blowers distribute weight more evenly, reducing strain during extended use. Handheld blowers are more portable and convenient for smaller tasks.
Nozzle Types: Different nozzle types affect the airflow pattern, making some blowers better suited for specific tasks.
Weight: How long will you be using your blower at a time? More weight means more muscle strain and fatigue.
Now that you understand the differences between CFM and MPH and know what other factors to look out for, you're ready to find the perfect blower for your lawn care needs! Explore our full range of high-performance, eco-friendly electric leaf blowers here .
Written by The Green Team, a creative arm within Greenworks Tools.
Our team of writers, designers and content creators bring a breadth of experience and a touch of fun to all things tools. With an assist from the Greenworks product teams and technology experts, we’re here to provide helpful and engaging content to make your yard (and life!) beautiful.
