Home Garden

Fan Leaf Removal

Using a fan to blow or remove leaves, while slightly unorthodox, is a viable alternative to purchasing an expensive leaf blower. With the right accessories, the fan can function in nearly the same manner as a commercial blower. Save money while doing yard work by reusing and repurposing what you already have. Most city waste services now collect yard waste for free or a small fee, so disposing of the leaves should be a relatively easy task.

Things You'll Need

  • Large box fan
  • Extension cord
  • Power outlet
  • Rake
  • Compost bag
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a large box fan. Smaller or round fans may also be an option, but box fans provide a larger area of blowing air.

    • 2

      Plug an extension cord in near your front door or on the front of your house, if you have an outdoor outlet. Connect the box fan to the extension cord.

    • 3

      Turn on the box fan on low to medium. Walk around in a circle, blowing the leaves into the center to form a big pile. Face the front of the fan towards the leaves while you hold the handle and stand behind or to the side.

    • 4

      Collect the leaves into a bag or blow them into the street. In some communities, blowing leaves into the street might warrant a fine or at the very least upset neighbors.

    • 5

      Rake the leaves into a waste bag. Place the bags on the curb for pickup by the city or deliver them yourself to a local compost center.