Leaf blowers were first manufactured in Japan during the 1970s, and made their debut in the Untied States towards the end of the decade. The annual sales by 1990, reached an estimated 800,000 in the country. It has become very popular due to its efficiency and effectiveness in ground maintenance. Today, leaf blowers are used by almost every family for cleaning patios, lawn trash, leaves, etc.

Leaf blower types can be classified according to their power sources. In electric-powered leaf blowers, an electric motor drives the fan, so they require an electrical power source provided from an electrical outlet, through an extension cord. However, there are also rechargeable battery operated units available, more suitable for smaller areas because of their limited operating time. Mixing oil and gasoline operates gas-powered leaf blowers. 2-stroke gasoline engines generally power backpack blowers, while wheeled units generally have 4-stroke gasoline engines.

There are three main types of Leaf Blowers: Handheld, backpack and wheeled or walk-behind.

The handheld leaf blowers are the most popular among homeowners, mainly because of convenience and portable size. They also provide all the power and capacity needed for most simple home maintenance works. You can opt between gas-powered or electric-powered handheld units.

Backpack leaf blowers are used more often by professionals, and are mostly gas-powered. The harness, which has a blower fit into it, is worn on the operator's back. The engine and fan are also placed on the backpack frame with a hand-held hose and spout to direct the airflow. Backpack leaf blowers are typically used, and most suitable for larger areas.

Wheeled or walk-behind leaf blowers are the best for maintaining larger areas. For example, they can be used to blow away the leaves from an entire lawn. These gas-powered units are also preferred mostly by professionals and commercial users. A hose is used for the vacuum units for absorbing debris.