Wiktor Wise
Electric leaf blowers are generally low-maintenance and easy to use, but they can still be frustrating when they stop working. Most issues are easy to fix, and you can usually troubleshoot the problem yourself. Common issues include old fuel, dirty air filters, clogs, and debris. If your leaf blower is not blowing air, it could be a problem with the blower fan. If the blower is shutting off, the motor may be overheating. You can fix this by allowing the machine to cool down for 30 minutes. If the machine still won't work, you may need to replace the brushes in the motor.
Characteristics and Values Table for Electric Leaf Blower Repair
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Problems | Engine running but no air blowing, old gas, old oil, clogged or dirty air filters, dead batteries, overheating motor |
| Troubleshooting Steps | Check blower fan for damage, replace old gas, change oil, clean or replace air filters, replace batteries, allow motor to cool |
| Repair Resources | Step-by-step repair guides, online communities, expert advice, model-specific instructions |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance, easy to use, clean regularly, replace filters annually or more frequently |
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What You'll Learn
Check for clogs, debris, and dirty air filters
If your electric leaf blower is not working properly, the problem is likely to be minor and easy to locate. Before attempting any repairs, make sure the blower is unplugged or powered down.
First, check for clogs and debris that might be blocking the blower. Next, check the air filter as dirty air filters could prevent the blower from getting the air it needs. Remove the filter cover, take out the air filter, and inspect it for dirt, debris, or damage. If the filter is reusable, gently tap it to remove any loose dirt, or wash it in soapy water if the manual allows. Make sure the filter is completely dry before reinstalling it. If the filter is too dirty, torn, or damaged, replace it with a new one, making sure to use the correct filter for your blower model.
The air filter ensures that clean air reaches the engine. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can build up in the filter, restricting airflow and causing the engine to stall or cut out. Regularly cleaning the air vents after each use will help prevent future clogging. Use a soft brush or compressed air to carefully clean the vents, ensuring that airflow is not restricted.
If your leaf blower runs on batteries, the batteries could be dead. Switch these out and test the blower to see if that helps.
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Inspect the blower fan for damage
To inspect the blower fan for damage, start by checking if the engine is running but the blower is not blowing air as it normally would. If so, it is likely that the blower fan is broken. Next, unscrew the fan housing from the side of the blower and inspect the fan for any damage. If the fan is loose, simply tighten it. If the fan is broken or damaged, remove the spark plug boot and spark plug, and feed a piece of rope into the spark plug hole to prevent the piston from rotating inside the cylinder while the fan is unscrewed. Once the old blade is removed, replace it with a new one.
When inspecting the blower fan for damage, it is important to work in a well-lit area to clearly see and access the interior parts. Be gentle when handling or removing parts, as excessive force can damage the appliance or cause injury. Additionally, always disconnect the power source before inspecting or repairing any electrical appliance.
To prevent accidents and injuries, take your time and don't rush the process. Keep children and pets away from the work area. When working with chemicals, dust, or cleaning large debris, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes. It is also recommended to wear insulating gloves when working with electrical appliances to prevent electrical shock.
If the blower fan is damaged, you may need to replace it. First, check the fan alignment by opening the housing and inspecting the fan or impeller. Ensure it is securely attached to the motor shaft and properly aligned. If the fan is damaged or unbalanced, replace it with a new one.
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Check for old gas and oil
One of the most common reasons a leaf blower won't start is old gas. Gas has a shelf life, so if you left gas in the tank and haven't used your leaf blower in months, the volatile compounds that make an engine run would have evaporated, and your gas won't be as effective. To fix this, remove the spark plug, siphon out the tank, throw out the old gas, and replace it with new gas. This should get your leaf blower working again. If you want to save money, you can mix the old fuel with new fuel in a 3:1 ratio, but this may be more trouble than it's worth.
Old oil is another issue that is easy to overlook. Just like a car, a gas leaf blower won't run right if it doesn't have frequent oil changes. This only applies to four-cycle leaf blowers, which are uncommon. Most leaf blowers have two-cycle engines, so you can skip this step. If you have a four-cycle leaf blower, you can easily fix this by changing the oil.
If your leaf blower still doesn't work after addressing the gas and oil, you may need to check the carburetor. Old fuel that has turned into sludge may be blocking the carburetor. First, check the carburetor to see if it's clogged. If it is, you have three options: clean the carburetor, rebuild it, or replace it entirely.
A blocked air filter is another common problem that could be keeping your leaf blower from starting. Clogged air filters cause the blower's engine to receive too much fuel and not enough air, which often leads to a faulty start. To fix this, unscrew the air filter cover and set it aside. Expose the air filter, clean it with warm water and soap, and leave it to air dry. As the filter dries, brush down the air filter cover to remove any extra dirt, then reinstall the filter and cover.
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Test the on/off switch
If you've checked for clogs, debris, and dirt in the air filters, and your electric leaf blower still won't turn on, the next step is to test the on/off switch. First, ensure that the leaf blower is unplugged from its power source. Then, get a circuit tester. You can use the circuit tester to check if the on/off switch is working properly. If the on/off switch is faulty, you may need to replace it or get a professional to repair it.
If the on/off switch is working, but the leaf blower still won't turn on, there are a couple of other things to check. One possibility is that the leaf blower has overheated and shut itself off. Electric leaf blowers will usually operate for about 30 minutes before needing to be recharged, but some models may last for up to an hour. Place your hand on the housing of the blower and check if it feels excessively hot. If it's hot, allow it to cool down for 30 minutes. A thermal cut-out will usually reset itself after this period, or you can look for a reset button on the machine.
If your leaf blower doesn't have a reset button and it still won't work after cooling down, the electric motor may need new brushes. Replacing the brushes in the motor will require purchasing new parts for your leaf blower.
If none of these troubleshooting steps work, you may need to consult a professional for further diagnosis and repair.
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Reset the thermal cut-out or replace the motor brushes
Resetting the thermal cut-out or replacing the motor brushes in your electric leaf blower can help to resolve issues with its performance. Here is a guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Safety First
Before beginning any repair work on your electric leaf blower, it's important to prioritise your safety. Ensure the blower is unplugged from any power source and has cooled down completely. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to protect yourself from potential hazards.
Step 2: Disassembling the Blower
Start by removing the housing screws that secure the housing together. Use a screwdriver to carefully detach them, being cautious not to overtighten or strip the screws. Once the screws are removed, gently separate the housing components and detach the blower tube from the motor housing. Avoid using excessive force to prevent damage. Locate the impeller inside the blower tube and remove it by unscrewing the retaining nut with a wrench or socket.
Step 3: Identify the Issue
If your leaf blower is not functioning properly, it could be due to worn motor brushes or a faulty thermal cut-out. Worn motor brushes can cause reduced motor power. Check the condition of the brushes and the commutator (the round part the brushes ride on). The brushes should have a smooth contact surface with the commutator, and they should not be worn down or damaged. If the brushes appear compromised or the commutator is damaged, replacement may be necessary.
Step 4: Replacing Motor Brushes
If you need to replace the motor brushes, obtain new brushes suitable for your leaf blower model. Follow the disassembly steps in reverse to install the new brushes, ensuring all components are securely fastened and properly aligned.
Step 5: Resetting or Replacing the Thermal Cut-Out
The thermal cut-out is a safety feature designed to protect your leaf blower from overheating. If your blower is not heating up or has stopped working, the thermal cut-out may need attention. Locate the thermal cut-out, typically found between the grill element connectors with brown wires connected to it. Disconnect the wires and remove the screw holding the thermal cut-out in place. If the thermal cut-out has failed, replace it with a new one, ensuring the wiring is correct. Certain thermal cut-outs may reset automatically when the temperature drops, while others may require a manual reset or replacement, depending on their design.
By following these steps, you can effectively reset the thermal cut-out or replace the motor brushes in your electric leaf blower, helping to restore its performance. Remember to prioritise safety and follow manufacturer guidelines for any specific instructions pertaining to your leaf blower model.
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Frequently asked questions
There could be a number of issues at play here. Firstly, check if you are using old gas as gas has a shelf life and the volatile compounds that make an engine run evaporate over time. If you suspect this is the case, remove the spark plug, siphon out the tank and throw out the old gas, then replace it with new gas. Another issue could be old oil. If you have a four-cycle leaf blower, you will need to change the oil frequently. To do this, remove the spark plug wire or the spark plug itself, remove the oil plug, then tip the leaf blower on its side and drain the old oil into a container. Replace the old oil with new oil and try to start the engine.
There are a few reasons why this could be happening. Firstly, unplug the leaf blower and check that the impeller or fan has not been jammed by a stick or another object. If the impeller can move, turn it by hand to see if you can hear a grinding noise. If the bearings on the impeller have worn out, they could lock up when power is applied to the shaft. Open the inspection hatch for the electric motor and check that the central spindle will turn. Plug the leaf blower in again and test it. If it still will not work and if there is power arriving at the leaf blower, you now need to check the on/off switch. Unplug the leaf blower and use a circuit tester to ensure that the on/off switch is working properly.
First, make sure the leaf blower is totally powered off. Clean out any debris inside the leaf blower and then use compressed air to get gunk out of hard-to-reach areas. Wipe away any visible grime with a damp cloth or a little soap and water, but avoid getting any moisture near the engine. Replace the filter at least once a year or every few months, depending on how often you use your leaf blower.
