How much does a leaf blower cost to run?

At the page's 1,200-watt input and 30 minutes of daily runtime, the estimated cost is $3.39 a month at 18.83¢ per kWh. Change the inputs for your equipment and local rate.

EIA period April 2026 · retrieved July 16, 2026Page reviewed July 23, 2026EIA residential rate data

A high quality photo representing a beautiful leaf blower
Use your appliance label for a closer wattage estimate.

Calculate your cost

Start with the example below, then replace the wattage, daily runtime, and rate with the numbers for your leaf blower.

18.83¢/kWh U.S. average
W
hr
¢/kWh

Find your state average

$3.39/ month
$0.11/ day
$41.24/ year

This setup uses about 18 kWh in a 30-day month.

Runtime comparison
ScheduleHours/dayCost/month
Half runtime0.25$1.69
Page example0.5$3.39
Longer runtime0.75$5.08

Same 1,200-watt input and 18.83¢/kWh rate; only runtime changes.

Formula for the page example

1.2 kW × 0.5 hr × $0.1883 = $0.11 per day

Convert watts to kilowatts, multiply by the active hours used each day, then multiply by the electricity price in dollars per kWh. Multiply the daily result by 30 for the monthly estimate shown above.

How to read this estimate

Corded or electric leaf blowers use a strong motor to push air, typically drawing similar power to a vacuum cleaner for short yard-work sessions.

Use this as a baseline until you can check the label or measure the leaf blower directly. Model, settings, condition, climate, and household routine can all change the result.

What changes the cost?

  1. 01

    Motor power rating

  2. 02

    Size of the yard

  3. 03

    Frequency of use

Ways to spend less

  • Rake bulk debris first, then use the blower for finishing touches.
  • Work on dry days, as wet leaves require more time and power to move.
  • Use the lowest speed setting that gets the job done.

Rate source U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electricity Retail Sales

EIA calculates average retail revenue per kilowatt-hour from reported residential sales and revenue. It is a statewide monthly average, not a quoted utility tariff, and an individual bill may also include fixed fees, tiers, taxes, riders, or time-of-use pricing.

Source period April 2026 · retrieved July 16, 2026.