DeWalt Cordless Handheld Blower

Navigating the world of outdoor power tools can be a bit of a maze, but finding the right tool can make all the difference in your yard work. Recently, I had the chance to use the DeWalt Cordless Handheld Blower, model DCBL722B, and I’m here to share my thoughts on its performance.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this blower is its lightweight and ergonomic design. Weighing in at just a few pounds, it’s easy to handle and maneuver, making it perfect for extended use without causing fatigue. The build quality is up to DeWalt’s usual high standards—solid and well-constructed, it feels like a durable piece of equipment that can withstand regular use.

Power and Performance

Equipped with an innovative axial fan design, the blower can push up to 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air at speeds of up to 125 miles per hour when using the concentrator nozzle. This level of power is more than adequate for most household tasks like clearing driveways, sidewalks, and patios. However, if you're accustomed to gas-powered blowers, you might notice a slight drop in raw power. Still, for a battery-operated tool, it performs admirably.

One of the standout features is the variable speed trigger and speed lock. This allows for precise control over the airflow, which is particularly useful when dealing with different types of debris. Whether you’re gently clearing flower beds or blasting away stubborn leaves, you can adjust the speed to suit your needs.

Battery Life

Battery life is often the Achilles' heel of cordless tools, and this blower is no exception. Using a 5Ah battery, I found that the blower runs for about 15-20 minutes on a full charge, especially when operating at full power. This is sufficient for small to medium-sized tasks, but if you have a larger property, you might find yourself needing multiple batteries to get the job done in one go. On the plus side, the high-efficiency brushless motor helps extend the overall runtime and lifespan of the tool.

Noise Levels

One of the more pleasant surprises was the low noise operation. At just 62 dB(A), it’s quieter than many other blowers I've used, making it suitable for use in noise-sensitive areas. This is a significant advantage if you live in a neighborhood with strict noise regulations or if you simply prefer a quieter tool.

Usability and Comfort

The blower is incredibly easy to use. The lightweight design means it’s comfortable to hold and maneuver, even for extended periods. Additionally, the blower’s balance is well thought out, and it doesn’t feel cumbersome or awkward in hand. For those who may struggle with the weight and bulk of gas-powered blowers, this is a fantastic alternative.

The trigger and speed lock are intuitive and straightforward, making it easy to control the power output. The ability to lock the speed is a handy feature, especially for longer tasks, as it reduces the need to constantly hold down the trigger.

Versatility

While the blower excels at clearing light to moderate debris, it’s important to manage expectations. It’s not designed for heavy-duty tasks like clearing large volumes of wet leaves or other stubborn debris. For such tasks, a more powerful gas blower would be more appropriate. However, for everyday yard maintenance, it’s more than capable.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintaining the blower is a breeze—no pun intended. There are no gas or oil mixtures to worry about, and the brushless motor means fewer parts to wear out over time. As long as you keep the battery charged and store it properly, it should provide reliable performance for years.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt Cordless Handheld Blower DCBL722B is a well-designed, powerful, and versatile tool that’s perfect for everyday yard maintenance. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and low noise operation make it a great choice for homeowners looking for a convenient alternative to gas-powered blowers. However, if you have a larger property or need to tackle more demanding tasks, you might find the battery life limiting and may need to invest in additional batteries.

Recommendation

Would I recommend this blower? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you already have other DeWalt cordless tools and batteries, this blower is a fantastic addition to your collection. It’s convenient, efficient, and powerful enough for most household tasks. However, if you’re starting from scratch and need a blower for more heavy-duty work, you might want to consider other options or be prepared to invest in additional batteries.

In summary, the DeWalt Cordless Handheld Blower is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, easy-to-use tool for everyday yard maintenance. Its strengths far outweigh its limitations, making it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.