Vacuuming Leaves Vs Blowing Them to the Curb
/As autumn approaches, the falling leaves in September through November present both a beautiful sight and a chore for homeowners. While these leaves may be picturesque, they can also create a mess in your yard, driveway, and sidewalks. Properly collecting and disposing of fallen leaves not only helps maintain the appearance of your property but can also protect your lawn from suffocating under piles of leaves. Choosing the right method for leaf collection depends on the size of your yard, the tools available, and how your municipality handles leaf disposal.
Three Methods for Collecting Leaves
There are several methods to tackle the task of collecting fallen leaves, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
1. Manually Raking Leaves Into Piles This traditional method involves using a rake to manually gather leaves into piles for bagging or transport to the curb. While this is the least expensive option, it can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, especially for larger properties. However, manual raking offers precise control over leaf placement and is ideal for those who want a quiet, eco-friendly option. It’s also great for getting a good workout while enjoying the cool fall air.
2. Using a Leaf Blower to Move Leaves to the Curb Leaf blowers offer a more efficient way to move large quantities of leaves quickly. By blowing leaves into piles or directly to the curb, you save considerable time and effort. Many municipalities allow homeowners to simply blow leaves into the street for curbside collection. However, it’s important to check with your local borough or township, as each area handles leaf collection differently. Some municipalities collect loose piles of leaves, while others require bagging.
Walk behind leaf blowers are excellent for clearing large areas quickly and efficiently. These powerful machines are ideal for commercial use, especially in parks or on large estates, where large quantities of leaves need to be moved. A commercial leaf blower offers more power than a handheld blower, making it the perfect choice for professional landscapers or homeowners with extensive properties.
3. Vacuuming Leaves with a Leaf Vacuum Another convenient option is using a leaf vacuum, which not only collects but also mulches leaves, reducing their volume and making disposal easier. This is a great solution for those who want a clean lawn without the hassle of moving large piles of leaves. Many leaf vacuums come equipped with a collection bag, meaning there’s no need to rake or blow leaves afterward.
A gas powered lawn leaf vac is a popular choice for those with larger lawns who need the power to quickly vacuum up fallen leaves. These machines often come with a mulching function, making them efficient for reducing the volume of leaves before disposal. A leaf vac with a bag is particularly useful for easy transport of leaves to the curb or compost bin, saving you from repetitive trips back and forth.
Leaf Collection by Municipality
Before choosing your leaf removal method, it’s essential to understand how your township or borough handles leaf collection. Some areas require bagging leaves in biodegradable bags, while others allow for loose leaves to be collected at the curb. In some cases, leaf collection services may be provided by your local government at set times during the fall, so coordinating your leaf removal activities with the municipal schedule will save time and ensure that your leaves are collected promptly.
If your area requires bagged leaves, a leaf vacuum with a collection bag may be the most convenient option, as it allows you to vacuum and bag simultaneously. On the other hand, if loose piles are allowed, a walk behind leaf blower can quickly move the leaves to the designated collection area.
A Closer Look at Leaf Blowers
Leaf blowers come in various forms, from handheld units for smaller yards to heavy-duty commercial models designed for large spaces. The commercial leaf blower is an especially powerful tool, offering more force to move heavy, wet leaves or large piles across substantial distances. Walk behind leaf blowers are equipped with powerful engines and wide nozzles, making them highly effective for clearing leaves off lawns, parking lots, or athletic fields. While more expensive than handheld blowers, they save significant time and energy for large-scale leaf management.
A Closer Look at Leaf Vacuums
Leaf vacuums are not only great for collecting leaves but also for mulching them, which can reduce the number of bags needed for disposal or make them more manageable for composting. A gas powered lawn leaf vac provides ample power to handle wet or heavy leaves. Many models feature a leaf vac with a bag, allowing for easy disposal. This method is ideal for homeowners who want to keep their lawns leaf-free without worrying about large piles or bags.
Manufacturers of Lawn and Garden Equipment
When it comes to selecting the right lawn and garden equipment for leaf management, several reliable manufacturers provide high-quality products:
MacKissic Inc. – Known for manufacturing rugged, durable outdoor equipment, MacKissic produces a range of leaf vacuums and blowers. Headquartered in Pennsylvania, MacKissic is a proud American-made brand that helps support the U.S. economy.
Husqvarna – This Swedish manufacturer offers a variety of lawn and garden equipment, including leaf blowers and vacuums, known for their durability and performance.
Toro – An American brand with a long history of producing reliable outdoor power equipment, Toro offers a variety of leaf blowers and vacuums suitable for both homeowners and professionals.
By choosing equipment made in the U.S., like those from MacKissic, you not only invest in quality but also help support American workers and contribute to the local economy.
Whether you choose to rake, blow, or vacuum your leaves this fall, the right tools can make the task much easier. Each method has its strengths, and your choice should consider both your lawn’s size and your municipality’s leaf collection rules. Leaf vacuums, walk behind leaf blowers, and commercial leaf blowers are all excellent options, depending on your needs.