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Danger of Smelling Fumes From a Gas-Powered Leaf Blower

Introduced in the 1970s, gas-powered leaf blowers are considered a convenient way to remove leaves, dirt and other debris from lawns, driveways and sidewalks. However, they are serious source of pollution linked to a variety of health problems.

  1. Pollution

    • According to a study conducted in Orange County, California, one gas-powered leaf blower produces as much exhaust in one hour as 17 cars. However, while car exhaust is spread out across a wide area, leaf blower exhaust is concentrated around one neighborhood. The exhaust contains particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide and hydrocarbons.

    Heatlh Concerns

    • A byproduct of incomplete combustion, carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that interferes with the blood's ability to transport oxygen throughout the body. In high concentrations, it can cause death from asphyxiation. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California's Air Resource Board, the particulate matter interferes with the ability to fight infection, increases asthma attacks and causes bronchitis and other lung diseases.

    Considerations

    • Gas-powered leaf blowers have been banned in a number of cities including Los Angeles,California, Aspen, Colorado, Vancouver, British Columbia and Palo Alto, California. Bans are under consideration in several other jurisdictions. Alternatives include rakes, brooms, electric leaf blowers and battery-powered leaf blowers.

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