Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower Review

The Kobalt 80V 140 MPH 630-CFM Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Electric Leaf Blower stands out in the market for its robust features, designed to tackle the toughest yard cleaning tasks.

Priced at $152.98, this model promises high efficiency coupled with the convenience of cordless operation, aiming to cater to both casual gardeners and more dedicated landscaping enthusiasts.

Design and Build

The Kobalt 80V leaf blower sports a sleek black and blue color scheme and is designed for easy handling. Weighing in at a lightweight 8.9 lbs, its handheld form factor ensures that one-handed use is comfortable, making it ideal for prolonged yard sessions.

The ergonomic design is further enhanced by the balance it offers when loaded with a battery, providing a natural tilt that eases the strain of lifting.

Performance and Efficiency

Equipped with a high-efficiency brushless motor, the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower not only ensures a quieter operation but also extends motor life by reducing mechanical wear. The blower boasts an impressive airflow capacity of 630 cubic feet per minute at a speed of 140 miles per hour, making it capable of handling even the most challenging yard clean-up tasks efficiently.

Despite its robust power output, it maintains a relatively low noise level at 71 dB, ensuring minimal disruption in residential areas. The variable speed trigger is a notable feature, enhancing its usability by allowing easy adjustments between turbo and lower settings with a simple button press. This function is essential for managing different types of yard debris effectively, without the need to stop and make manual adjustments.

During extended use, the Kobalt 80V proved its prowess in a long-duration test on the lowest speed setting. Initially expected to run for 75 minutes, it surpassed expectations dramatically, operating for nearly three hours on a single charge. This extraordinary performance underlines the blower’s efficiency and the reliability of its power management system.

Battery Life and Usage

The battery efficiency of the Kobalt 80V blower stands out, compatible with a 2.5 Ah battery that, while sold separately, offers substantial runtime. Officially, the battery is rated to provide up to 75 minutes of continuous operation. However, extensive testing revealed that under practical conditions, especially on the lowest speed setting, the blower can run for up to 150 minutes and even approached three hours in some tests.

Such durability in battery life provides ample time to tackle larger yards without the frequent need for recharging. This extended capacity is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a continuous work session without interruptions.

Additional Features

The Kobalt 80V blower simplifies the user experience with intuitive controls and a well-placed turbo button for easy access. The inclusion of a cruise control option adds convenience, allowing users to lock in a desired airflow speed without continuous manual input. This feature is particularly beneficial for tackling larger areas where consistent power is needed over a longer period.

Potential Drawbacks

While the blower is highly effective, it does have some limitations. The air intake location at the back of the unit can sometimes catch loose clothing, which could be a nuisance or a safety hazard. Additionally, the lack of interchangeable nozzle tips restricts users to a single type of airflow, which may not be ideal for all situations.

Maintenance of Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower

Maintaining your Kobalt 140 MPH 80-Volt 630-CFM Lithium Ion Brushless Cordless Electric Leaf Blower is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Here’s how to care for this model:

• Clean Regularly: After each use, turn off the blower and disconnect the battery. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth to remove dirt and debris. Use a small brush or compressed air to clean the air intake and exhaust vents, preventing overheating and maintaining airflow efficiency.
• Inspect and Clean the Blower Tube: Regularly check the blower tube for any blockages or buildup of leaves and other materials. Clean it out as necessary to ensure there are no obstructions that could impede airflow.
• Battery Care: Remove the battery when the blower is not in use. Store it in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures, which can significantly affect battery life. Charge the battery fully before storage and periodically recharge it to keep it near full capacity.
• Check for Wear: Routinely inspect your blower for signs of wear or damage, especially focusing on the blower tube and nozzle. Replace parts that appear worn out or damaged to maintain safety and operational efficiency.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Although the brushless motor in your blower generally requires less maintenance, it’s a good practice to check any accessible moving parts from time to time. If the manufacturer recommends, apply lubrication to keep these parts running smoothly.
• Firmware Updates: If your model supports it, keep an eye out for firmware updates. These updates can enhance the performance or features of your leaf blower, ensuring you have access to the latest improvements.
• Consult the User Manual: For specific maintenance instructions and troubleshooting, always refer to the user’s manual. This manual might have additional tips tailored to the maintenance of your specific model and can be a valuable resource.

Conclusion

Overall, the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower offers a powerful, efficient, and user-friendly solution for maintaining your garden or yard. Its design is focused on maximizing comfort and efficiency, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to invest in a reliable yard maintenance tool. While it comes with a few limitations, the advantages it offers, especially in terms of battery life and operational ease, make it a worthy contender in the cordless leaf blower market. Whether you’re clearing leaves after a storm or managing general yard debris, the Kobalt 80V is equipped to handle it with ease and efficiency.

FAQs

1. How does the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower handle wet leaves?
   The Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower is capable of blowing both dry and wet leaves effectively. However, performance may vary with wet leaves due to their added weight and stickiness, which could slightly reduce the blower’s efficiency.
2. Can the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower be used in the snow?
   Yes, this blower can be used to clear light snow from walkways and driveways. The powerful airflow is sufficient to move thin, powdery snow, making it a versatile tool for all seasons.
3. What is the noise level of the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower compared to gas blowers?
   At 71 dB, the Kobalt 80V is quieter than most gas-powered blowers. This makes it a more neighborhood-friendly option, especially in areas with noise restrictions.
4. How long does it take to charge the battery fully, and what is the expected runtime?
   The 2.5 Ah battery typically charges in about 60 minutes and can provide up to 75 minutes of runtime depending on usage patterns and power settings.
5. Are there any attachments or accessories available for the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower?
   Currently, this model does not support additional attachments. It is sold as a standalone unit, which limits customization but ensures optimized performance for its design.
6. Is the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower heavy, and can it be used by people of all strengths?
   Weighing just 8.9 lbs, it is designed for easy handling and can be used comfortably for extended periods, making it accessible for users of varying strength and stamina.
7. What makes the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower environmentally friendly?
   Unlike gas blowers, the Kobalt 80V does not emit harmful fumes or require oil, making it a cleaner, more environmentally friendly option for yard maintenance.
8. Can the speed of the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower be adjusted during operation?
   Yes, it features a variable speed trigger with a turbo boost button, allowing you to adjust the airflow dynamically based on the specific needs of the task at hand.
9. What should I do if my Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower suddenly stops working?
   First, check to ensure the battery is charged. If issues persist, consult the troubleshooting section of the user manual, or contact Kobalt customer support for further assistance.
10. Does the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower require any regular maintenance?
    Minimal maintenance is required. Keeping the blower clean and storing it in a dry place is generally sufficient. Always check the battery connections and clear the air intake and exhaust vents regularly to ensure optimal performance.

Thanks for checking out our review of the Kobalt 80V Leaf Blower! If you have any questions or if you’ve used this blower yourself, we’d love to hear about your experience. Drop us a comment below to share your thoughts or tips. Your feedback helps us and others make more informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to join the conversation!