Leaf blower repairs you can do at home (without calling a pro)

There’s nothing more frustrating than grabbing your leaf blower for a quick cleanup and finding that it won’t start or isn’t running quite right. The good news? Many of these issues are surprisingly simple to fix, and you don’t need to be a professional to get your blower back in action.

From clogged filters to faulty spark plugs, most problems can be resolved with a few basic tools and a little know-how. Not only will you save money by skipping the repair shop, but you’ll also gain the satisfaction of solving the problem yourself.

Important: The information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

If you need any replacement parts for your appliance, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

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

How to diagnose common problems

When your leaf blower isn’t working as expected, the first step is to figure out what’s wrong. Diagnosing common issues doesn’t require professional expertise, just a systematic approach and a bit of patience. Here’s how to identify what might be causing the trouble.

The blower won’t start

Possible causes:

• Gas models: Empty fuel tank, old or stale fuel, dirty air filter, faulty spark plug.
• Cordless models: Dead battery or poor battery connection.
• Corded models: Damaged or faulty power cord.

What to check:

1. For gas blowers, ensure the fuel is fresh and the tank is full.
2. Inspect the air filter for dirt or clogs.
3. Check the spark plug for wear or carbon buildup.
4. For electric models, test the cord or battery connection.

Loss of power or weak airflow

Possible causes:

• Clogged air intake or exhaust.
• Damaged or misaligned impeller (the fan inside the blower).
• Worn-out motor components.

What to check:

1. Look for debris blocking the intake or nozzle.
2. Open the blower housing to inspect the impeller for cracks or obstructions.
3. Test the motor if you suspect electrical issues.

Overheating

Possible causes:

• Blocked ventilation.
• Overworked motor from prolonged use.
• Insufficient lubrication in gas models.

What to check:

1. Ensure vents are clear of debris and dust.
2. Give the blower time to cool down before restarting.
3. For gas blowers, check that oil and fuel are at proper levels.

Strange noises or vibrations

Possible causes:

• Loose screws or fasteners.
• Damaged or unbalanced impeller.
• Worn-out bearings in the motor.

What to check:

1. Tighten all screws and connections.
2. Inspect the impeller for damage or misalignment.
3. Test the motor for smooth operation by running it without the housing.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Leaf-Blowing

DIY repairs for common issues

Once you’ve diagnosed the problem with your leaf blower, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and fix it. Most repairs are simple, require minimal tools, and can be done in under an hour. Let’s tackle some of the most common fixes step by step.

1. Clean the air filter

What you’ll need: A soft brush, soapy water, and a replacement filter if necessary.

Steps:

1. Remove the air filter cover (refer to your blower’s manual).
2. Take out the filter and inspect it for dirt or damage.
3. If reusable, clean it with soapy water and let it dry completely.
4. Replace the filter if it’s too dirty or damaged.
5. Reassemble the cover and test your blower.

2. Replace the spark plug

What you’ll need: A spark plug wrench and a compatible replacement plug.

Steps:

1. Locate the spark plug (usually under a small cap).
2. Remove the spark plug using the wrench.
3. Check for wear, cracks, or heavy carbon buildup.
4. Insert a new spark plug and tighten it securely.
5. Reconnect the cap and test the blower.

3. Clear a clogged nozzle or intake

What you’ll need: A brush or vacuum and protective gloves.

Steps:

1. Disconnect the blower from power (for electric models) or ensure it’s off and cool (for gas models).
2. Inspect the intake and nozzle for debris buildup.
3. Use a brush or vacuum to clear away clogs.
4. Reassemble and test the blower.

4. Repairing or replacing a power cord

What you’ll need: Wire cutters, electrical tape, and a replacement cord if needed.

Steps:

1. Inspect the cord for visible cuts or fraying.
2. If minor damage is present, wrap the area with electrical tape.
3. For severe damage, disconnect the cord from the blower (following manufacturer instructions).
4. Replace it with a new cord and secure connections.
5. Test the blower for consistent power.

5. Fixing a damaged impeller

What you’ll need: A screwdriver, replacement impeller, and protective gloves.

Steps:

1. Open the blower housing to access the impeller.
2. Inspect the impeller for cracks, chips, or misalignment.
3. Remove the damaged impeller and replace it with a new one.
4. Reassemble the housing and test the blower.

6. Maintain batteries (for cordless models)

What you’ll need: A dry cloth and replacement battery if necessary.

Steps:

1. Clean the battery contacts with a dry cloth to remove dirt or corrosion.
2. Ensure the charger is functioning correctly by testing it with another battery.
3. Replace the battery if it no longer holds a charge.

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

Additional information

Thanks for reading! If you need replacement parts, grab your model number and head to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need help finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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