How to troubleshoot a leaf blower that stalls or cuts out

There’s nothing more annoying than when your leaf blower decides to sputter and stop right when you’re making headway in the yard. You’re almost done with that pile of leaves, and then, poof, the engine gives up, leaving you high and dry. Figuring out why it’s acting up can get you back to work in a jiffy.

Heads up: The tips we’re sharing might not match your specific leaf blower model exactly. We try to give helpful advice for all sorts of DIY fixes, but different models and setups can mean the steps, error codes, and parts vary a bit. For the best info, it’s smart to check out your manufacturer’s manual or just reach out to us if you’ve got questions.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• If working indoors, make sure there is adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of exhaust fumes. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be a serious risk.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Never attempt to service or repair while it is running or when the engine is still warm. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop.
• Exercise extreme caution when working near blades, augers, or any other moving parts. Keep your hands, fingers, and clothing clear of these areas at all times.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any hot parts to cool down before working on it.
• Empty the gas tank before beginning any work. Refill using fresh fuel.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury.
• When not in use, store the machine in a safe and dry location.

Read more: Troubleshooting and Fixing a Leaf Blower that Won’t Start

Top causes for gas-powered leaf blowers

Clogged air filter

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. Without proper airflow, the engine cannot maintain combustion.

Steps to fix:

1. Locate the air filter cover, which is typically on the side of the blower. Remove the cover by unscrewing or unclipping it.
2. Take out the air filter and inspect it for dirt, debris, or damage.
3. If the filter is reusable, gently tap it to remove loose dirt, or wash it in soapy water if the manual allows. Make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling.
4. If the filter is too dirty, torn, or damaged, replace it with a new one. Always use the correct filter for your blower model.
5. Reassemble the filter cover and test the blower.

Clogged fuel filter

The fuel filter ensures that clean fuel flows to the engine. Over time, it can become clogged with dirt or residue from old or contaminated fuel, restricting fuel flow and causing the blower to cut out.

Steps to fix:

1. Locate the fuel filter, which is usually inside the fuel tank or along the fuel line.
2. If it’s inside the tank, use a small hook or tweezers to pull the fuel line out and remove the filter.
3. Replace the clogged filter with a new, compatible one. Ensure it is securely attached to the fuel line.
4. Reinsert the fuel line and filter back into the tank.

Carburetor issues

The carburetor mixes fuel and air for combustion. If it becomes dirty or clogged, the engine may stall because the fuel-air mixture is incorrect. This is often caused by old fuel, dirt, or residue buildup.

Steps to fix:

1. Drain any old or stale fuel from the tank and refill it with fresh, properly mixed fuel (for two-cycle engines, use the recommended gas-to-oil ratio).
2. Use a carburetor cleaner spray to clean the outside and accessible parts of the carburetor.
3. If the problem persists, remove the carburetor (refer to your user manual for instructions) and clean the jets and internal components. Use carburetor cleaner and compressed air to remove any clogs.
4. Reassemble the carburetor carefully and ensure all connections are secure.
5. If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, consider replacing the carburetor.

Top causes for electric (corded) leaf blowers

Overheating motor

An electric leaf blower motor can overheat when air intake vents are clogged with dust, dirt, or debris, or when it’s used for extended periods without breaks. Overheating often triggers the blower’s safety mechanism, causing it to shut off to prevent damage.

Steps to fix:

1. Inspect the air vents on the blower for blockages or buildup.
2. Use a soft brush or compressed air to carefully clean the vents. Be thorough to ensure airflow is not restricted.
3. Allow the blower to cool down completely before using it again.
4. In the future, avoid running the blower continuously for long periods. Give it breaks during extended use to prevent overheating.

Electrical connection issues

A loose or damaged power cord or plug can disrupt the power supply, causing the blower to stop unexpectedly. This is often due to wear and tear or using incompatible extension cords.

Steps to fix:

1. Inspect the power cord for visible damage, such as frayed wires, exposed insulation, or bent prongs on the plug.
2. If the cord or plug is damaged, replace it immediately. Do not attempt to use a damaged cord as it could be unsafe.
3. Ensure you’re using an extension cord rated for the blower’s power requirements (check the manual for recommendations).
4. Test the outlet with another appliance to ensure it is functioning correctly.
5. Plug the blower into a secure, grounded outlet and test its operation.

Faulty switch or motor

If the power switch is worn out or the motor has internal faults, the blower may cut out unexpectedly or fail to start altogether.

Steps to fix:

1. Test the power switch by turning the blower on and off several times. If the switch feels loose, sticky, or unresponsive, it may be faulty.
2. If the switch is damaged, purchase a replacement switch compatible with your blower model. Replace it by disassembling the housing and carefully wiring the new switch according to the manual.
3. If the motor is suspected to be faulty (e.g., humming, smoking, or no response), it may need replacement.

Top causes for battery-powered leaf blowers

Low or faulty battery

If the battery is not fully charged or has a defect, the blower may stop working mid-use. Over time, rechargeable batteries can also lose their ability to hold a charge.

Steps to fix:

1. Remove the battery from the blower and check the charge level. Most batteries have an indicator to show the remaining power.
2. Recharge the battery fully using the manufacturer’s recommended charger.
3. Inspect the battery terminals for dirt, corrosion, or damage. Clean them gently with a soft cloth or small brush if needed.
4. Test the blower after recharging. If the problem persists, try using a different battery if available.
5. Replace the battery if it doesn’t hold a charge or if you notice physical damage, such as swelling or leaks.

Overheating due to prolonged use

Continuous operation can cause the motor to overheat, and many battery-powered blowers have built-in safety features that shut them off when overheating occurs.

Steps to fix:

1. Turn off the blower and remove the battery to ensure safety.
2. Allow the blower to cool for at least 15-20 minutes. Check for any unusual smells or signs of overheating near the vents.
3. Inspect the air vents for dust or debris that might restrict airflow. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean them.
4. Avoid running the blower for long periods without breaks in the future. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for usage time.

Faulty motor or controller

The motor or electronic controller in a battery-powered blower can malfunction, causing the blower to stall or stop working entirely. This is often due to wear or an electrical fault.

Steps to fix:

1. Inspect the blower for signs of motor failure, such as strange noises, reduced power, or a burning smell.
2. Check all internal connections by removing the housing (if you’re comfortable doing so) to ensure no wires are loose or damaged.
3. If no obvious issues are visible and the blower still cuts out, contact the manufacturer or a repair professional for assistance.
4. Replace the motor or controller if they are found to be faulty, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Read more: How to fix a leaf blower that starts and then stalls

Top causes common to all types of leaf blowers

Clogged air vents

Air vents are critical for cooling and airflow. If they become blocked by dust, dirt, or debris, the blower can overheat or lose efficiency, leading to stalling or shutdown.

Steps to fix:

1. Inspect the air vents on all sides of the blower for blockages.
2. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean out any dirt, leaves, or debris.
3. Check that no internal components, such as the impeller or motor housing, are obstructed.
4. Regularly clean the vents after each use to prevent future clogging.

Loose or damaged components

Vibrations from regular use can loosen screws, bolts, or internal components, causing instability and potentially cutting power.

Steps to fix:

1. Inspect all visible screws, bolts, and fasteners on the housing and internal components.
2. Tighten any loose parts using the appropriate tools. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could strip the screws.
3. Look for any cracked or broken parts, such as the casing, mounts, or impeller. Replace damaged components as needed.
4. Reassemble the blower and ensure all parts are securely in place.

Improper use or lack of maintenance

Many stalling issues stem from improper operation or neglecting regular maintenance, which leads to avoidable problems like clogs or worn parts.

Steps to fix:

1. Refer to the user manual to ensure you’re using the blower correctly. For example, avoid tilting the blower too far or overloading it with wet or heavy debris.
2. Check all routine maintenance points, such as cleaning air filters, inspecting impellers, and ensuring proper fuel or power supply.
3. Perform a full inspection of the blower periodically to catch potential issues early.
4. Follow a maintenance schedule, such as cleaning after each use, inspecting moving parts monthly, and replacing worn parts as needed.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Leaf-Blowing

Need more help?

If you’re still having trouble after trying these steps, take a look at our full repair help resources for more guidance.

By understanding these common issues and how to fix them, you can keep your leaf blower running smoothly and avoid interruptions when you’re working in the yard.

For quality replacement parts and expert advice, swing by AppliancePartsPros.com. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest tips and deals. If you’ve got any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re here to help you get the job done right.