Homeowners Are Using Leaf Blowers to Clear Snow — Here’s What to Know Before You Try It
Leaf blowers can work for snow removal in certain situations — here’s when they make sense.
With snow piling up across the country, homeowners are looking for faster and easier ways to keep walkways, decks, and driveways clear. And instead of reaching for a shovel or snow blower, many are turning to an unexpected gardening tool usually reserved for fall cleanup. Leaf blowers, it turns out, can be surprisingly effective for snow removal — but only under the right conditions.
When a Leaf Blower Can Help With Snow
It turns out that leaf blowers can be surprisingly effective for clearing snow, as long as the conditions are right. The key? Light, dry, powdery snow. When snow is fresh and fluffy, a powerful leaf blower can push it off of most surfaces in seconds — no bending, lifting, or scraping required.
This method works especially well to clear snow from:
- Walkways and garden paths
- Decks, patios, and stairs
- Driveways with a light dusting
- Car roofs, hoods, and windshields
Why the Type of Leaf Blower Matters
The key is to use a high-powered blower that produces strong airflow, like this 680CFM electric cordless option on Amazon. On smooth surfaces like composite decking, concrete, or asphalt, the snow lifts easily and blows away cleanly. They’re especially useful for early-morning dustings or quick touch-ups before snow gets packed down.
This powerful electric leaf blower can ramp up to an air speed of 200MPH. At less than 4lbs, this lightweight option packs a punch.
That said, this method has its limits. Once snow becomes wet, heavy, compacted, or deep, a leaf blower simply won’t cut it. In those cases, you’ll need something with more muscle.
When You’ll Need a More Powerful Tool
For heavier snowfall without investing in a full-size snow blower, a cordless snow shovel is a great compromise. It’s more affordable than a traditional snow blower, much easier on your body than a manual shovel, and perfect for clearing driveways, sidewalks, and decks quickly. Think of it as the step up when a leaf blower isn’t enough — but a full machine feels like overkill.
Looking for something more maneuverable? Try this larger 17-inch option with wheels, which can remove snow up to 10 inches deep.
This basic option is lightweight, 12 inches across, and blows snow up to 20 feet away. Plus, it has over 1,000 5-star reviews.
This ergonomic blower is adjustable to three different lengths, making it compact and easy to store.
The bottom line is, using a leaf blower to clear snow isn’t a gimmick — but it does depend on timing and conditions. If you already own a leaf blower, it’s worth trying for light snowfall before reaching for a shovel. Just be ready to switch tools to something like a cordless electric snow shovel when winter weather gets more serious.
