Reviews — Best Yard Vacuums & Mulcher for your Lawn & Garden

Which yard vacuum is right for you? We look at some timeless models that have been consistent top sellers for years, but we also show you the newest designs, with more power than ever before. I’ve spent a lot of time in the landscaping world which has made it relatively to come up with my recommendations. In this guide you’ll find the best yard vacuums and mulchers to get rid of your pesky leaves, and reduce them down to nothing.

Battery-powered leaf vacuums are the fastest growing segment of this market as battery technology continues to evolve and output more power with longer lasting batteries. When buying a cordless model I recommend buying the highest amperage (Ah) battery you can afford because these leaf vacuums can go through batteries fairly quickly. If you can afford it, get two sets of batteries.

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Best Tow-Behind Leaf Vaccum for Large Yards

Models in the series of Lawn Vacuums from DR:

Features:

OVERVIEW / PRO XL330

Did you know that the DR brand is owned by Generac, a leading manufacturer of backup power? We’ve covered many of Generac’s generators over the years as they make so me of the best generators on the market, for homeowners and commercial/industrial applications. Generac owns many big brands, including Powermate and ecobee. DR is a reputable brand, so have no fear if you’re considering one of their leaf vaccums.

The DR PRO-XL330 tow behind leaf vacuum is a heavy-duty machine that can handle even the toughest of yard cleanups. With its 11.7 HP engine and massive Shark-Teeth impeller, it creates a powerful airflow that can easily suck up leaves and other debris, leaving your lawn spotless. The clamshell design of the collector box makes it easy to operate with just one hand, and it can also be converted into a cart-style trailer for added versatility.

VIDEO: Overview of the Various Tow-behind Yard and Leaf Vacuum Models by DR

One of the best things about the PRO-XL330 is its large 330-gallon collector capacity, which means you’ll have to empty it less frequently. This makes it a great choice for those with larger properties or heavy cleanup tasks. The dual gas-assisted cylinders and dual wheels also make it easy to move around and support heavy loads without sinking into turf.

On the downside, some customers have reported issues with assembly and the design of certain parts. The lock bolts on the axle and the cable that catches the top of the vacuum have been reported as being too short and easily breakable. The hose is also said to be too lightweight for a heavy vacuum. However, many customers have also praised the machine for its ease of use and efficiency in cleaning up leaves and debris.

Overall, the DR PRO-XL330 is a great option for those who want a powerful, heavy-duty leaf vacuum that can handle big jobs. However, it may not be the best choice for those who are looking for a more lightweight and easy-to-use machine. If you’re comfortable with some assembly and have a large property that requires frequent yard cleanup, the DR PRO-XL330 might be the perfect choice for you.

Thank Goodness for Power Equipment

Nobody enjoys doing yard work, especially when tasked with a yard filled with leaves in various states of decay, grass clippings and various other yard debris such as twigs and small rocks. The easiest way to restore your lawn to a more beautiful state is simply to vacuum it all up into large bags and then dispose of it all.

Historically, people would go for their rake to get rid of the leaves, as I did when I was a kid — and this may be fine for a small yard, but it can be hard on your back if you have a large area to rake up, not to mention the time it takes and it’s not very effective. Machines and tools are your friend. Why do laborious work if you don’t have to. Don’t worry, someday soon we’ll all have personal robots to take care of all our dirty work, including yard work.

Below you’ll find our recommendations for the best yard vacuums for the money. You get what you pay for with leaf/yard vacuums as I have found that the most effective models are generally the more expensive models. Also, a yard vacuum will be less or more effective depending on the conditions. If your leaves and grass clippings are wet and mixed in with dirt, well, you’ll need a more powerful design.

On the other hand, if conditions are dry, and your leaves move freely, with not matting to the ground, then you’ll find a less expensive design to be quite effective. You need to consider your usage requirements and then choose accordingly.

Best Heavy-Duty Leaf Vacuum for Homeowners

Review — ➤Makita XBU04PTV – 36V LXT / Includes 2x 5Ah batteries

FEATURES:

• 3-tools-in-1: vacuum, mulcher and blower  
• Easily converts from blower to vacuum / mulcher with Vacuum Attachment Kit
• Makita-built Brushless Motor gives you: Max. Air Volume : 473 CFM / Max. Air Velocity : 120 MPH
• 10:1 mulch ratio reduces up to 10 bags of leaves down to 1 bag with shredding blade
• Precision suction power designed for fallen leaf cleanup without altering stone and rock settings in plant beds
• Air Flow Rate : 448 CFM
• Only 11.2 lbs.
• Collection bag holds up to 1.4 bushels of leaves
• Cruise control lever with variable speed trigger for power and run time management
• Speed lock for convenient continuous operation
• Commercial design for heavy duty applications
• 3-stage telescoping blower nozzle features an adjustment range of 5″ extending pipe closer to ground for user convenience
• Lightweight and ergonomic design for operator comfort and control
• Quite: 61 dB –  measured per ANSI B 175.2 standard
• Rubberized soft grip provides = comfort
• Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) : Gives you extra dust and water resistance when conditions are difficult, such as during a downpour

OVERVIEW / XBU04PTV

Makita is synonymous for creating quality tools and power equipment and this yard vacuum is no exception. It’s not perfect, as it can be awkward to use and vacuum with but they’ve implemented a telescoping design which gives you a range of 5-inches to adjust the nozzle.

This Makita leaf blower/mulcher is more demanding than other cheaper brands, but it’s lightweight enough at only 11.2 lbs. that when you adjust it correctly and find your sweet spot you’ll be vacuuming leaves, mulching or blowing leaves, with ease and with commanding control.

Most products have their quirks and this one is no different, but I feel the complaints about the challenges people have with using this has more to do with the operator failing to adjust the nozzle and how they position the product. I personally found this to be incredibly powerful and effective, making it one of the best yard vacuum/mulchers you can buy.

VIDEO | A Closer Look at the Makita 46V Leaf Vacuum / Mulcher + Blower

I recommend considering a second set of batteries if you have large areas to clear.. This product has heavy power demands and the 5Ah batteries might last you 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the power level you run it at. It has a variable speed trigger so it’s up to you to determine how long you can extend the battery life.

If you find the optimal power level you’ll be able to have the battery last a little longer then if you simply run it at full speed from start to finish.

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The Problem with Leaf Blowers

Some tend to purchase leaf blowers, which is much more efficient than raking. The problem with blowers is that they don’t eliminate the leaves; they just push them away and a gust of wind could carry them right back into your yard. Another option from the conventional rake and the leaf blower is a leaf vacuum (also referred to as a yard vacuum). Is a yard vacuum worth buying?

The short answer is “YES,” assuming you buy a quality model that works. Some of the cheaper yard vacuums don’t have enough suction to pick up your leaves effectively, leaving you more frustrated than satisfied. In this guide I’m recommending the best yard/leaf vacuums based on my experience and the long-term customer satisfaction levels of consistent usage. This Makita is an excellent example of a powerful cordless yard vacuum that effectively gathers your leaves.

CRAFTSMAN BV245: Best Gas Leaf Vacuum

27cc gas-powered leaf vacuum and blower / Includes vacuum kit

Features:

• 27cc, 2-cycle gas engine with high performance air volume and air speed of up to 450 CFM/205 MPH
• Equipped with Easy Start technology for simpler pull starts and 3-Step Starting process (prime, choke, pull)
• User-friendly design with a translucent fuel tank, variable speed throttle with cruise control, and comfort overmolded handle to reduce vibration
• Easily convert from a blower to a vacuum/mulcher with a 16:1 debris reduction ratio
• Comes with a 1.5-bushel capacity bag for collecting leaves and debris
• Includes 2-cycle engine oil for convenience
• Lightweight design to reduce user fatigue

OVERVIEW / BV245

I have had the opportunity to use a wide range of power tools and equipment. When it comes to leaf blowers and vacuums, I have tried everything from budget-friendly options to high-end commercial models. Recently, I had the chance to test out the CRAFTSMAN BV245, an affordable gas-powered leaf blower, vacuum, and mulcher.

The 27cc, 2-cycle gas engine is certainly capable of producing a reasonable amount of air volume and speed, reaching up to 450 CFM and 205 MPH. However, it’s important to note that this level of power is appropriate for light to medium-duty work, such as clearing a small yard of dry leaves, and other small yard debris. You might notice that it may struggle when you’re dealing with wet leaves. As a frame of reference, a professional-grade yard vacuum and blower have a CFM of around 850 and higher, around double the CFM of this Craftsman model.

One of the standout features of the BV245 is its versatility as a 3-in-1 machine. The vacuum kit is included and allows for easy conversion from a blower to a vacuum and mulcher with a 16:1 reduction ratio. This is a great feature for those looking to clear their yard of debris and have the option to mulch and reuse the leaves as a nutrient-rich mulch for their garden. It’s worth noting that the vacuum kit does add some weight to the overall machine, and the bag itself means you’ll be managing it while you work. This makes it a little cumbersome to maneuver but it’s not that big of a deal. The truth is, all handheld yard vacuums have some type of bag attached, so there’s no way around it — unless you get a tow-behind model like the Agri-Fab Mow-N-Vac (45-0577).

The BV245 also boasts user-friendly features such as the Easy Start technology and the comfortable over-molded handle. The Easy Start technology reduces resistance when pull-starting the engine and the over-molded handle does a decent job of absorbing and reducing vibration.  

In terms of CFM (cubic feet per minute), it’s important to note that CFM is a key marker that determines the effectiveness of a leaf vacuum, but the most important number is the CFM at the tip of the nozzle, not inside the machine. All that matters is how fast and diffuse the airflow is outside of the nozzle. CFM represents the volume of air, which is why it’s far more useful than mph. In fact, mph is a useless number. Nowadays you’ll see a number in Newtons, which is even more accurate than CFM. To learn more about that, read our article focused entirely on air flow and leaf blowers. If you want to geek out on this stuff, go read: How much CFM is ideal for a leaf blower? and in another companion article, we delve into even more details.

Other factors such as the design of the impeller and the size of the debris intake also play a crucial role in determining the efficiency and performance of the machine.

In terms of power source, the BV245 is considered a light-duty gas-powered leaf vacuum. In fact, you can buy cordless handheld blowers/vacuums that are more powerful, so don’t assume that because it’s gas, it’s more powerful than a battery-powered model. For example, the 36V Makita XBU04PTV (473 CFM / 120 MPH) has more CFM than this Craftsman (450 CFM). In fact, cordless models today are impressive machines that are more convenient for a wide range of reasons. One annoying aspect of gas power is they always demand maintenance and they’re louder, emit toxic fumes, and are generally heavier.

Overall, the CRAFTSMAN BV245 leaf blower/vacuum/mulcher is a solid option for homeowners with light to medium-duty leaf vacuuming needs. It’s generally well made and well suited for the needs of homeowners. If your expectations are realistic, then I’m confident you won’t be disappointed.  

Benefits of Owning a Yard Vacuum

A leaf vacuum can offer many benefits over the conventional rake or leaf blower. Also known as a leaf vacuum mulcher, this tool helps to keep your yard clean and neat by completely eradicating the leaves. Unlike the leaf blower, the yard vacuum is equipped with a sucking nozzle which pulls in the leaves. It gets all of the leaves, unlike a rake that can leave some behind. That said, here are some additional benefits of a leaf vacuum that are worth noting;

• It saves time and effort
• Lightweight and portable (some models)
• Excellent performance gets the job done
• It saves on trash bags

With the leaf vacuum all you need to do is pass it over the leaves and they will be sucked into the bag, much like a regular vacuum you would use to clean your carpets. If you were using a rake or a leaf blower, you would have to gather them to one location. You would additionally have to dispose of the leaves by scooping them into the trash bag, which is tiresome. Everything is managed easily with the leaf vacuum as the leaves are collected directly into the bag attachment.

Additionally, a yard vacuum could cut down on yard maintenance costs as you will not need to purchase garbage bags to dispose of the leaves. The leaf vacuum stores the collected leaves in the bag attachment, which can be emptied and reused over and over again. This also translates to less waste. The yard vacuum can also help you save money on fertilizer as you can simply reuse the sliced leaves as mulch or fertilizers in your yard.

Some leaf vacuums come in a lightweight handheld model that you can work with easily as you move around the yard. These are great if you have smaller areas you want to clear leaves such as a driveway or fairly small to medium sized yard. Then there are push-models, generally gas-powered, that are heavy-duty and operate like a lawn mower. These are suitable for larger yards and consist of larger capacity collection bags for big jobs.

Best Yard Vacuum Under $100 — ➤BLACK+DECKER BV3600

FEATURES:

• 3-in-1 design: Blower, vacuum, and mulcher keeps the yard neat and tidy.
• 12 amp motor
• 230 mph blower clears leaves and debris with ease.
• Anti-Clog Vortex Impeller prevents clogging as you mulch / Reduction ratio is 10:1
• Two speed – Flower beds and matted leaves
• Tool-free switching between vacuum and blower – Fast and Simple
• Built-in cord retainer ensures extension stays secure

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Why Should You Eliminate Yard Waste?

What is the benefit to vacuuming yard waste? Isn’t it just a normal part of the seasons changing to have a yard full of leaves? The truth is, leaving yard waste including dead leaves and debris could be detrimental to your lawn, and even for your own safety! While a light coverage of leaves (10-20%) to your lawn isn’t a concern, you certainly don’t want to let the leaves and debris pile up to cover the majority of your lawn’s surface. Here are a few reasons why:

• Inhibits lawn growth
• Contributes to mold
• Increases the likelihood of pests in your yard

When you have an excessive collection of leaf matter to your lawn that isn’t cleared up before winter hits you could be causing damage to your lawn. Layers of leaves, especially matted down leaves and debris, will smother your lawn and inhibits growth during the spring. Furthermore, the longer the leaves stay on the ground it’s highly likely that snow mold diseases can develop. Even if you don’t experience snow, the cool, wet conditions that affect your lawn during the winter months can contribute to the development of the fungus in grass that is covered by heavy leaf matter.

If lawn care isn’t of that much importance to you, you may reconsider if you don’t want to welcome pests and potentially dangerous nuisances in your yard. Thick piles of leaves and debris that sit over a period of time are ideal places for an insect infestation. Additionally, rodents and snakes like to hide in such conditions that are dense as they find these places ideal for burrowing. This could make walking through your yard risky, especially if you have small children.

Best Leaf Vacuums / Yard + Garden

Cordless and Corded-Electric

► Ergonomic : Best Affordable Lawn Vacuum

Corded-Electric: WORX WG512 Trivac

FEATURES: WG512

• Patented motor rotates and switches between modes by the simple turn of the knob
• Wide mouth tube with 600 CFM of air capacity
• Metal propeller = 16:1 mulching ratio  
• Includes — detachable bag for composting or general collection.
• Two speed operation — corner sweeping and or maximum performance.
• Power Input — 12AMP
• No-Load Speed — 16500/MIN
• Air Capacity — 600 CFM  
• Air Speed — 75 MPH
• Mulching Rate — 16:1
• Collection Bag Capacity — 1.2 Bushels
• Machine Weight — 8.6 lbs.
• Warranty — 3 yrs.

Gas vs. Electric Yard Vacuums

There are two basic types of yard vacuums. They run on a motor that is powered either by gasoline or electricity and some models are even battery-operated. The electric vacuum and gas vacuum both have their positive and negative sides. It is important to compare the two types of vacuums so as to get the right model for the job at hand.

If you need a vacuum to use for your lawn, deck, or patio, an electric vacuum can serve you well for lighter jobs, especially around delicate areas such as flower beds. These are generally lighter, handheld models that can be easily portable and take up less space for storing.  However, a larger area or yard with compacted piles of leaves will require a stronger vacuum with greater range and power. For jobs such as these, a gas leaf vacuum would likely be the best option.

Gas Vacuums

Pros:

• They are more powerful and can run for longer periods without breaking down as easily.
• They can get larger jobs done more efficiently.
• They are not corded which enhances their flexibility and ease of use without the need for an electricity source.

Cons:

• They can pollute the environment due to the exhaust fumes. If not well maintained, they can be extra smoky.
• They are noisier than electric vacuums.
• They can be heavy due to the gas engines and take up more storage space.

Electric Yard Vacuums

Pros

• They are lighter than the gas vacuums, usually handheld.
• They are easy to maintain.
• They are quieter in comparison to gas models
• They are much more friendly to the environment
• Usually, more economical than gas

Cons

• They depend on electricity to work. This means you might be limited to the area you can clear.
• They don’t have the power capability of a gas model

Review: Black and Decker BV6600

Best Quiet Yard Vacuum + Blower and Mulcher

Features:

OVERVIEW / BV6600

One of features I like the most about this leaf vacuum is how quiet it is. It’s significantly quieter than other model hovering around 68dB. They claim it’s 50% quieter than other brands. At this price point I applaud the engineers at Black+Decker for making an affordable leaf vacuum that’s also quiet.

If you are looking for an electric yard vacuum with versatility, this one’s got it with a 3-in-1 operation as a blower, vacuum, and mulcher! The blower mode has two speeds: one that is suitable for flower beds and a more powerful option up to 250mph for thick, matted down leaves. It is constructed with a high impact metal fan for mulching up leaves and debris to prevent clogging the motor and grinds up to the equivalency of 16 bags of mulch into one.

It features an easy-to-use operation with tool-free interchangeability between vacuum and blower modes. For added convenience, this unit also features a cord retainer for uninterrupted performance.

Review: WORX WG509 TriVac

Best Lightweight Yard Vacuum under $100

Features:

• All-in-one design: blower, mulcher & vacuum
• Quickly converts from blower to vacuum mode with the flip of a switch
• Two-stage metal impeller with shredder blade provides an 18:1 mulch ratio
• Electronic variable speed control for corners and heavy debris
• Quick-release button makes cleaning debris as easy as ever

View or download the MANUAL for the WORX WG509.

Another great 3-in-1 option is this WORX Electric TriVac that operates as a blower/vacuum/mulcher system. A flip switch conveniently converts to different modes as you need. It is equipped with a metal impeller with an added shredder blade to mulch at a ratio** of 18:1. The suction tube has a unique angled design with a curved tip that allows you to reach areas such as under decks without the need of an additional attachment.

Video — WORX WG509 TriVac

The corded-electric model operates using a 12-amp motor that serves as a great alternative to gas-powered models. It also has electronic speed control which you can adjust accordingly to your specific needs with an air flow speed from 75pmh to 210mph!

Best Value Battery-Powered Yard Vacuum

There are many advantages to buying a battery powered yard vacuum. For me, the most important thing is that they are quiet and do not emit fumes. Sure, they aren’t as powerful but if you have a small yard a battery-powered yard vacuum is perfect.

Black & Decker LSWV36 (40V )

Features:

• 120 MPH sweeper vac easily clears debris from hard surfaces like driveways, decks, and garages.
• Easily converts to vacuum mode for quick and easy vacuuming of debris from hard surfaces without the hassle of a cord.
• High Performance 40V MAX* Lithium Ion Battery provides long runtime and state of charge indicator to show battery charge level
• POWERCOMMAND controls speed for maximum run-time or maximum power
• Lightweight at just 5.4 pounds for quick and easy blowing of debris; 6.9 pounds in vacuum mode
• Mulching fan reduces up to 6 bags of leaves down to 1 bag while vacuuming.
• Low noise design allows for quiet operation
• Blow tube has built-in scraper allows users to loosen matted leaves and stuck-on debris.
• Soft grip handle provides added comfort during use.
• *Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 40V. Nominal voltage is 36.

This battery-powered unit offers similar advantages of electric but in a cordless model that gives you better flexibility. The sweeper/vacuum has two modes: one for ‘sweeping’ or blowing and one for vacuuming up leaves and debris from hard surfaces like decks and driveways. The blower tube features a scraper that can loosen stuck-on debris or matted leaves for easier clearing.

The sweeper/vacuum easily switches in between modes and also has a Power Command feature that controls speed. The unit weighs just over 5 pounds for a really lightweight model that is easy to use by anyone. Best of all, the 40-volt lithium battery that powers this model is interchangeable with other Black and Decker power tools that use the same battery system. It comes with a charger that will recharge the battery for approximately 1 hour and then it’s ready for use and will maintain its charge much longer than other battery types.

NOT Recommended: Sun Joe 24V-X2-OGV

When it comes to yard work, a dependable leaf vacuum is a useful tool for keeping your lawn looking neat and tidy. The Sun Joe 48V (24V-X2-OGV) Cordless Garden Vacuum and Mulcher promised to be just that, but sadly, it falls short on almost every area. Here’s a breakdown of the product’s features and why it may not be worth your investment:

• 48V iON+ cordless battery system with dual-port charger and two 24V 4.0 Ah batteries included
• 2-in-1 outdoor vacuum mulcher
• 1100 watt motor with 38 MPH air speed and 850 CFM vacuum airflow
• 17.7″ adjustable handle that folds down for easy storage
• High-impact resistant impeller that mulches leaves up to 1/15th their original size
• 10.6-gallon collection bag with 7.5″ x 5.5″ debris intake
• Lightweight at just under 21 lbs
• ELT Listed with 2-year warranty

OVERVIEW / SUN JOE 24V-X2-OGV

One of the major issues with the Sun Joe 48V Vacuum and Mulcher is its battery life. According to customer reviews, the batteries run out quickly and don’t provide enough power for the machine to effectively vacuum dry pine needles or something as basic as leaves on artificial turf. What’s the point in making a leaf vacuum that can’t vacuum dry leaves? The answer: There is no point in making such a product. This defeats the purpose of having a cordless lawn vacuum.

Another issue is the machine’s tendency to shut off when tilted at any angle or lifted slightly off the ground. This safety feature may be intended to prevent accidents, but it makes it difficult to maneuver and use the vac effectively. Time to go back to the R&D phase.

Additionally, several customers have reported problems with the product’s suction power and ability to mulch leaves to the advertised 15:1 ratio. This makes it less efficient than other vacuums on the market.

The Sun Joe 48V Vacuum and Mulcher is not without its build quality issues. Some customers have reported that the wheels have trouble rolling and the impeller had a tendency to break. If you look at the customer reviews on Amazon, the average score is 2.8 stars out of 5 but when you compare it to the Sun Joe customer reviews, it shows a rating of 4.4 out of 5.

The problem is the reviews on the Sun Joe site are “incentivized,” which means they were either given the product for free or were paid. In other words, Sun Joe has manipulated their reviews to show a much higher score than what it deserves. I find this troublesome as it’s an attempt to manipulate their customers. As a business, this is a horrible business decision. Clearly this product is flawed and does not live up to its promise, but rather than acknowledge their failure and take it off the market, they are misleading potential customers.

I have to be honest, I have a problem with this. This represents an organization that does not care about customers, and they’re willing to do whatever it takes to make a dollar. Currently the product is out of stock on the Sun Joe and I’ll be very surprised if they ever order more stock to sell. It would be foolish if they did.

After noticing this contrast with the product, I’ve had time to reflect on it and I’ve decided that I won’t be recommending Sun Joe products going forward. They don’t pay me so I don’t have any relationship with them, but on a personal level, it does not sit well with me. I’m sure they’ll do fine without me. This is really about principle, and that means a lot to me.

It’s worth noting that Sun Joe products used to be consistently better in the past, but for some reason their products are hit or miss. With the rise of e-commerce, many companies are rushing products to market before they’ve been thoroughly tested. This can be detrimental to the brand, as it can damage their reputation and lead to products that are not up to par. Brands that were once highly regarded, such as Kodak and Blockbuster, declined because they failed to adapt and change.

While the Sun Joe 48V Cordless Garden Vacuum and Mulcher boasts impressive features on paper, it falls short in performance and durability. It’s a cautionary tale for consumers to be wary of products that are rushed to market without proper testing, and for companies to prioritize quality over speed. It’s also a reminder that, as the old adage goes, change or die. Life demands that we listen and adapt, and the same applies to both people and brands.

What Features to Consider when choosing a Leaf / Yard Vacuum

Other than the power mechanism of a yard vacuum, you should also consider some additional attributes that many models have to offer. This will help you find a vacuum that will serve you perfectly, based on your needs. Here are some features you might want to keep in mind when looking for the perfect leaf vacuum to buy.

Speed variations – the leaf vacuum that you choose must have adjustable speeds. This will let you switch to the perfect speed for the specific section of your yard. For areas with tough grasses, you can adjust the speed to suck in the leaves and debris that are stuck in the grass. If you have delicate flowers, you can then adjust the speed to be gentle on the flowers and only suck in the scattered leaves.

Motor specification – When going through the specification of the leaf vacuum, you must ensure that the motor power is at least 12amps. However, a 10-amp motor power can also deliver a sufficient job. Steer clear from any vacuum with a motor power listed as less than 10-amps. Such a tool might not offer enough speed and power for your needs unless you have a small area to cover.

Easy to switch (Modes) – Most of the new leaf vacuums are designed with an integrated vacuum and leaf blower.Some models require different attachments for each of these functions. Models that feature easy switching in between different modes allow you to choose the desired mode for the job with a single switch or lever that alters the modes. This will save you time and hassle of having to switch out or attach different parts.

**Reduction ratio – This is the ratio (as mentioned in the description for the WORX TriVac) in which the original volume of the leaves in reduced when it gets into the bag attachment. In other words, the vacuum should be able to compress the leaves as much as possible. These are typically mentioned with models that shred or mulch leaves in addition to vacuuming. With this feature, you can collect a lot of leaves that will be reduced to a small pile in the bag attachment. Ideally, choose a leaf vacuum that has a reduction ratio of 16:1, or even more.

Nozzle design – This feature might seem petty, but it is equally important. It is also called the tube or the pipe and is mostly featured on handheld models. It should be designed to get through spaces comfortably and with ease such as under patio furniture, for instance. You could go for the wide tube that is curved. This can deliver a sufficient job that will not cause too much dust in your yard or on you while operating.

An additional consideration when buying a yard vacuum or blower is to check with your local community regarding restrictions. Some communities may prohibit the operation of certain types of tools for various reasons. The last thing you want is to get a complaint from a neighbor about being in violation of a ban against the particular type of model you are using only to have to return it. At the very least, you may want to hold onto your receipt and check the return policy of the retailer it was purchased from. Also check the manufacturer’s warranty on the model and what it covers.

What’s an Alternative to Yard Vacuums?

If you aren’t too sure on a powered yard vacuum or if it’s not permitted within the community you reside, what’s known as a lawn sweeper may do the job just fine. It’s basically the manual equivalent of a yard vacuum. Lawn sweepers are typically ideal only for loose leaves and lawn clippings that are dry and not matted down or compressed. It’s a great tool to have to stay on track of your yard cleanup when you have frequent falling leaves or use during the spring and summer for moderate debris pick up. As a word of advice- you may find it easier to ‘sweep’ your lawn right after it’s been freshly mowed to pick up the broken down leaves and clippings.

Of course, a good old fashioned rake is always the most economical choice among all of these, but with its share of drawbacks. If you have a very small patch of yard that requires occasional cleanup then a rake would suffice. However, raking doesn’t usually get all of the leaves and debris and smaller leaf types can pass through the rake, rendering your efforts useless. You also can’t really use a rake on a hard surface such as a patio or deck. Still, it’s always an option if nothing else.

Agri-Fab 45-0218 |  Push Lawn Sweeper — 26″

Features:

• Lightweight easy to push.
• Light enough to hang for storage.
• Hopper bag disconnects to empty.
• Push lawn sweeper with adjustable height settings.
• Easy way to pick up lawn clippings and leaves off lawn.
• Durable, lightweight poly construction.
• Includes 1 sweeper and bag.
• 25 pounds; 7-cubic-foot capacity; 26 inches wide; 3-year warranty.

View or download the MANUAL or the PARTS LIST for the Agri-Fab 45-0218.

This lawn sweeper offers a more efficient option to raking up leaves, lawn clippings, and moderate debris for easier clean up in a lightweight, user-friendly model. It folds up compactly and is lightweight enough that it can even be stored hanging up on the wall of a shed.  It has multiple height adjustment options to pick up and collect loose leaves and debris in the 7-cubic foot vinyl bag. The bag can detach for easy dumping.

When choosing the right yard vacuum, ensure that you weigh all of the relevant features based on the size and composition of your yard. It isn’t all about finding a cheap yard vacuum; it’s about getting the right tool for the job and there are many options to choose from. One of the primary advantages of owning a yard vacuum is the convenience and efficiency it offers over raking. Simply put, the purpose is to make the job easier on you and as such the model you choose should be one that is easy to operate and manage.