Milwaukee M18 Double Battery Blower Review

Are you tired of wrestling with a gas blower that’s as stubborn as a mule? Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL Dual Battery Blower could be the breath of fresh air you need. With power that trumps handheld gas units and clever design tweaks, this tool might just sweep you off your feet. Let’s dig into what makes the M18 a standout in the sea of outdoor power equipment.

Unmatched Power and Performance

Right out of the gate, the Milwaukee M18 impresses with top-tier specs. Boasting a POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, this beast kicks out 600 CFM and 145 MPH of air velocity. What does that mean in plain English? It moves mountains of leaves faster than you can say “fall cleanup.” And with a unique ability to sustain maximum power through the entire battery charge, performance dips are a thing of the past.

Instantaneous Operation and Enhanced Productivity

Forget the pull-start nightmares of yesteryear. The M18 jumps to full throttle in less than a second. No ramp-up, just straight to business, which translates to less time coaxing your blower and more time conquering your yard.

Control and Comfort in Your Hands

The ambidextrous speed control is a real feather in its cap. Whether you’re right or left-handed, adjusting power output is as easy as sliding a lever. Paired with its balanced design, the M18 provides unmatched control, allowing you to navigate around obstacles and through tight spots with the grace of a dancer.

Thoughtful Design Features

Milwaukee doesn’t skimp on the extras. The dual-battery configuration not only enhances power but also cleverly allows space between the batteries to prevent overheating—extending the life of your investment. Additionally, an intuitive display keeps battery life visible, so you’re never caught off-guard by a dead battery.

Included are two nozzle attachments—a flat and a tapered option—letting you tailor the blower’s output to match specific tasks, whether you’re dislodging wet leaves or corralling loose grass clippings.

Robust and Reliable

This tool isn’t just a powerhouse; it’s also built like a tank. Yet, it weighs only 6.01 lbs, which is easy on your arms and back. The entire unit is backed by a three-year limited warranty, ensuring that Milwaukee stands behind its craftsmanship.

Performance That Speaks for Itself

In our tests, the blower not only met but exceeded expectations. It demonstrated a blow force greater than Milwaukee’s claim of 17.7 Newtons. When it comes to runtime, with two 8-amp-hour batteries, we achieved over 15 minutes at full throttle and nearly two hours at a moderate setting. This range provides ample time for most yard tasks without the need for constant battery swaps.

Sound and Fury?

Well, more like just a whisper. Rated at 64 dB(A) from 50 feet and 81 dB from the operator’s position, it’s quieter than many gas models, making early morning yard work less likely to disturb your neighbors.

Pros of Milwaukee Double Battery Blower

• The 600 CFM and 145 MPH stats translate into a blower that tackles heavy-duty jobs with ease. Whether it’s wet leaves or scattered debris, this tool handles it like a champ.
• This blower gets up to speed in under a second—no lag, no fuss. It’s a stark contrast to the pull-start gas blowers that often test your patience and biceps.
• The ambidextrous design of the speed control is genuinely thoughtful, making it comfortable for anyone to use. The overall balance of the blower also means less strain on your arms and back, even after extended use.
• The spacing between the batteries is a small but significant design choice that helps prevent overheating, potentially prolonging battery life, which is a smart move in my book.
• It’s noticeably quieter than gas models, which is a big plus if you like keeping your yard work unobtrusive and neighbor-friendly.

Cons Milwaukee Double Battery Blower

• At full throttle, the batteries last about 15 minutes. For small yards, it’s fine, but if you’ve got a lot of ground to cover, be prepared for frequent battery swaps or consider investing in backup batteries.
• It starts off feeling lightweight at just over 6 pounds, but once you pop in two large batteries, the weight increases and can get tiring during long sessions. It’s something to consider if you have a large property or if ease of use is your top priority.
• It comes with a couple of nozzle options, but they’re pretty basic. If you’re looking for versatility in how the air is directed, you might find these lacking.
• The lack of a kit option means you have to buy the batteries and charger separately, which is an extra step and expense.

Maintenance of Milwaukee M18 Dual Battery BlowerMaintenance of

Maintaining the Milwaukee M18 Dual Battery Blower is relatively simple, especially compared to gas-powered models. Here’s how you can keep it performing at its best:

1. Battery Care: Proper battery management is crucial for maximizing the lifespan and efficiency of your blower. Always use Milwaukee-approved chargers and adhere to the charging guidelines provided by the manufacturer. To avoid potential damage, do not leave the batteries on the charger once fully charged. For storage, especially over longer periods, keep the batteries in a cool, dry place and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures. Batteries should be stored with a partial charge, ideally around 40-50%, to maintain optimal battery health.
2. Regular Cleaning: Keeping the blower and its components clean is key to ensuring longevity and proper function. After each use, clean off any debris or dirt from the blower, nozzles, and air intake vents using a soft brush or cloth. This helps maintain airflow and prevents overheating due to blockages.
3. Inspect for Damage: Regular inspections can help catch issues before they lead to serious problems. Check the blower regularly for signs of wear or damage, particularly examining the nozzles, housing, and handle. Address any issues promptly to avoid impacting the tool’s performance.
4. Lubrication: While the brushless motor itself does not require lubrication, you should check any other moving parts or accessories periodically to see if they need lubrication. This helps keep everything running smoothly and extends the life of those components.
5. Check for Firmware Updates: If your blower features REDLINK PLUS™ technology, it’s a good idea to check for firmware updates periodically. These updates can enhance tool performance and improve communication between the tool and its batteries.
6. Functional Checks: It’s important to regularly test the variable speed trigger and lock-on lever to ensure they are working properly. This not only helps with ease of use but also ensures you can maintain control over the blower’s power output during use.
7. Blades and Attachments: Make sure that all attachments, such as nozzles, are securely in place and inspect them for damage or wear. Replace any that are not in good condition to ensure the blower works effectively and safely.
8. Professional Service: For any serious issues, particularly with the motor or electronic components, it’s best to contact Milwaukee for professional servicing. This is especially important to ensure repairs are carried out correctly and to maintain your warranty coverage.

Worth the Investment?

Priced at $299 for the bare tool, it’s a solid investment, especially when considering the elimination of gas expenses and maintenance hassles. Opt for the recommended 8-amp-hour batteries for an ideal balance of performance, runtime, and weight.

Conclusion

Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL Dual Battery Blower is a powerful, user-friendly solution for anyone looking to upgrade their yard maintenance tools. It combines the muscle of gas with the convenience of battery power, making it a top choice for both professional landscapers and weekend warriors. Ready to take the leap into a cleaner, greener way to maintain your outdoor space? This blower promises not to disappoint.

FAQs

1. What type of battery does the Milwaukee M18 Dual Battery Blower use?
   The blower requires two M18 REDLITHIUM batteries to operate, which are part of Milwaukee’s versatile M18 battery system.
2. How long does the battery last on a single charge?
   Battery life can vary based on usage, but typically, you can expect about 15 minutes of run time at full throttle with high-output batteries like the 8 Amp-hour model. Lower settings will extend battery life significantly, up to nearly two hours on moderate settings.
3. Can I use other Milwaukee M18 batteries with this blower?
   Yes, the M18 Dual Battery Blower is compatible with all Milwaukee M18 batteries, but for optimal performance and longer run time, it is recommended to use the M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT batteries.
4. What is the weight of the blower with and without batteries?
   The blower itself weighs 6.01 pounds. The weight will increase when batteries are installed, depending on the type of battery used. The 8 Amp-hour batteries, for example, add additional weight but provide a balance of run time and performance.
5. Does this blower come with a warranty?
   Yes, the Milwaukee M18 Dual Battery Blower comes with a 3-year limited warranty that covers any defects in material or workmanship.
6. What are the noise levels for this blower?
   The M18 Dual Battery Blower has a noise rating of 64 dB(A) when measured from a distance of 50 feet as per industry standards, and around 81 dB(A) from the operator’s ear.
7. Are there any accessories included with the blower?
   The blower typically includes a flat nozzle and a tapered nozzle, which help optimize airflow for different types of tasks.
8. How does the performance of this blower compare to gas-powered blowers?
   The Milwaukee M18 Dual Battery Blower offers performance that rivals or exceeds that of many handheld gas blowers, with the added benefits of no emissions, reduced noise, and instant start capabilities.
9. Is this blower heavy?
   While not particularly heavy on its own, the addition of two batteries does increase the weight, which might be a consideration for prolonged use. However, the ergonomic design helps mitigate fatigue.
10. Can the speed be adjusted on this blower?
    Yes, the blower features a variable speed trigger and a speed lock, allowing you to adjust the blowing force as needed and lock the speed for consistent airflow.

We’d love to hear from you! Got any experiences or tips to share about the Milwaukee M18 Dual Battery Blower? Drop a comment below and let’s get the conversation going. And if you found this review helpful, feel free to share it with your fellow yard warriors. Happy blowing!