I’ve been a fan of Lehr’s environmentally friendly engines ever since I tried them out at a lawn and garden event last January. Lehr has developed a 4-stroke engine that runs on propane—no hassles with using and storing gas, no priming to start the engine and almost no carcinogens or emissions released into the air. Instead, you just twist on one of those small, $3 propane canisters that you use with camping lanterns and stoves. One canister will power the engine for two hours at full speed.

The engine has been available in weed trimmers since last summer, and now it’s available in the Eco Blower, shown here. I’ve been using mine for the last few weeks. It starts on the second or third pull and runs quieter than gas-powered models (although it’s still loud!). And it’s plenty powerful enough to easily blow grass clippings and leaves off my driveway and sidewalk. The blower can also be used as a vacuum, and it comes with a bag to catch the debris.

Last Sunday, I drained the fuel from my gas engine toys. It’s nice knowing that I don’t have to winterize my Lehr engines. The Eco Blower costs $230. While that’s more than other models, at least you don’t have to hassle with stubborn starting and stinky gas issues anymore. You can find retailers on the company’s Web site or buy it at amazon.com

Lehr, (310) 839-9009. golehr.com

--Brett Martin, associate editor

Ethan Martin, the editor’s son, uses the Eco Blower to clean off their driveway.