How to Clean Fuel Filters on Leaf Blowers

The fuel filter is one of the most important components of a leaf blower. As you might have guessed, it filters the fuel for a smoother, more efficient performance. Over time, the filter gets clogged with residue and maintenance will be required. This step by step guide shows you how to clean a leaf blower fuel filter.

Rotate the choke knob to the center position and remove the screws off the fuel filter cover. Clean the dirt and dust around the filter and take out the pre-filter. Use soapy water to cleanse the pre-filter and let it dry before putting the filter and cover back on.

Clean a Leaf Blower Fuel Filter Step by Step

These instructions are only for side mounted fuel filters. If your leaf blower has an inline fuel filter, it needs to be replaced. Check the step by step guide on replacing an inline fuel filter on this post.

The information presented here is for information purposes only. It is not meant to replace the operating instructions that came with your leaf blower. If you prefer the Aoetree Cordless Leaf Blower for example, check its operating manual for more details.

This video shows how to clean a leaf blower fuel filter. If you prefer to read, follow the instructions below.

You will need:

• Screwdrivers to remove the filter cover
• Clean piece of cloth, rag, canned air or brush
• Warm soapy water
• New filters (we recommend the partszen AC04122 Fuel Line kit because it is compatible with popular brands)
• New tank fuel (optional)

Step 1

Turn the leaf blower off and empty the fuel tank. Allow the engine to cool before proceeding. Take off the spark plug wire boot..

Step 2

Turn the choke knob until it is in the middle position. Go to the side and you will find the fuel filter held in place by screws. Remove the screws and the cover. The fuel filter may be located somewhere else, so consult your manual for details.

Step 3

Get a clean piece of dry cloth and wipe the dirt that is on the filter. Pull off the filter unit and take the pre-filter out. If cloth or rags are insufficient, use a brush or canned air. Consider replacing the filter if cleaning takes too much time.

Step 4

Prepare warm, soapy water. Wash the pre-filter in it and wipe dry with another piece of cloth. Let it dry for at least an hour.

Step 5

Check the felt filter if it needs to be replaced. If so do it now. Put the pre-filter and fuel filter back on. Screw the cover back on. Put the spark plug wire boot back and you are done.

If you are going to use the leaf blower, fill up the fuel tank. If not, leave the leaf blower as is and add fuel when it will be used.

How Often Should I Clean the Leaf Blower Fuel Filter?

It depends on how dirty the filter gets and if it affects how the blower performs. If you use the leaf blower regularly, its fuel filters will clog faster and require cleanup.

Cleaning leaf blow fuel filters regularly can prevent clogging. But if you notice any of the signs below, do it right away. Do not wait for the next scheduled maintenance to get started.

Leaf blower starts but shuts down. If your leaf blower starts but suddenly turns itself off, its fuel filter is probably jammed. There are many reasons why this can happen but the first place you should look is the fuel filter.

Leaf blower will not start. If the machine will not start at all, it is another sign the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced. The whole point of a filter is to make fuel more efficient, and if it is blocked, jammed or dirty, it might be impossible for a leaf blower to start.

The engine sputters. It is never a good sign when you hear the engine sputter or struggle. There are many reasons why this can happen. But again you should look into the filter first.

Foul smell. Leaf blowers normally do not emit a strong odor. But if it gives off fumes, fuel residue has probably clogged the filter.

How to Replace an Inline Fuel Filter

Inline fuel filters are common not just in leaf blowers but in tillers and lawn mowers. The general rule is to replace the filter at least every year. If you use the blower often, replacing every six months may be more appropriate.

Follow these steps to replace an inline fuel filter.

You will need:

• New inline fuel filter
• Wire coat hanger
• Pliers
• Wire cutter
• Flathead screwdriver

Step 1

Use the wire cutter to cut at least six inches from a wire coat hanger. Turn one of the ends into a hook using the pliers.

Step 2

Turn off the leaf blower. Empty the fuel tank and give the engine time to cool off. Take off the wire boot from the spark plug.

Step 3

Take the thread off the fuel tank cap and pull the retainer off.

Step 4

Grab the 6 inch wire you cut off and use it to pull the fuel filter from the tank.

Step 5

Move the retaining spring from the filter. You may have to use a screwdriver, pliers or wire cutters depending on how your leaf blower is designed.

Step 6

Pull the fuel filter from the fuel line. Twist if necessary.

Step 7

Install your new fuel filter on the same line where you removed the old one.

Step 8

Move the spring retainer towards the new fuel filter. After securing it, push the filter in.

Step 9

Put the fuel cap retainer in the tank. Rethread on the cap.

Step 10

If you are going to run the leaf blower, fill the tank with fuel and reconnect the spark plug to the wire and boot.

Best Leaf Blower Maintenance Tips

The best way to prolong the life of a fuel filter is to keep your leaf blower in good condition. A well maintained machine is essential not just for the filter but the other components. Here are some suggestions you may consider.

Inspect and clean after heavy use. Leaf blowers are mostly used in the fall, but can be just as effective in winter snow. Blowers are also useful in spring and summer to clean debris, leaves, dirt etc. It is literally an all year long outdoor power tool.

However the more you run it, the more the fuel filter can get clogged. Clean the filter and the rest of the blower after heavy use. Clean the fuel filter or replace it, whichever is necessary. At the very least, clean the fuel filter at the end of each season.

Empty the fuel tank during storage. Never store a leaf blower for long periods with a full fuel tank. Over time, the fuel will turn gummy, coating the filter with its residue. When you attempt to use the leaf blower, the residue makes it hard or impossible to use.

Leaf blowers are available in 2-cycle or 4-cycle engines. A 2-cycle model requires you to mix fuel and gas. A 4-cylinder engine has separate compartments for the two. Typically oil change is recommended every 20-50 hours but it can vary depending on the make and model.

The following maintenance tasks should be performed every month:

• Remove fuel from the tank if it is over a month old
• Wipe the dirt from the carburetor.
• Inspect the spark plug and replace if necessary
• Check the filters and connections. Replace any that are worn out.
• Filter and spark plugs may be replaced every year or sooner depending on how often you use your leaf blower. As always, let its performance serve as your guide.

Store the leaf blower if you will not be using it for several months. Check the operating manual that came with the product for details. But in general the first thing you should do is empty the fuel tank. If you want it filled during storage, add a stabilizer.

Do a thorough inspection and make sure everything is working fine. Store the leaf blower in a well-ventilated area.