If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile tool to tackle garden waste, you’ve likely come across the Black and Decker BV5600. This Black and Decker BV5600 review aims to give you a clear, practical look at what this blower vac can really do in your garden.
I’ve used this model for several seasons now, and I’m here to share the honest pros and cons from a gardener’s perspective. We’ll look at its power, ease of use, and whether it’s worth your investment.
Black and Decker BV5600 Review
Let’s get straight into the details. The BV5600 is a 3-in-1 electric garden tool that functions as a blower, vacuum, and shredder. It’s designed to make quick work of leaves, grass clippings, and other light debris.
Key Features and Specifications
Before we go further, here’s a quick rundown of it’s main specs:
* Power Source: 3000W Electric (corded)
* Air Speed (Blower): Up to 210 mph
* Air Volume (Blower): 400 m³/h
* Vacuum Capacity: 40 liters
* Shredder Reduction: 10:1 ratio
* Weight: Approximately 4.4 kg
The corded electric power means you don’t have to worry about battery life, but you do need to be within reach of an outdoor power outlet. The high air speed is a standout figure for a tool in this category.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Out of the box, the BV5600 feels sturdy but not to heavy. Assembly is straightforward and takes about 10-15 minutes. You’ll need to attach the blower tube, the vacuum tube, and the collection bag. The instructions are clear, and everything you need is included.
The build quality is typical Black & Decker—functional and durable for home use, though not indestructible. The collection bag is a decent size, and the tubes click together securely.
What’s Included in the Box?
* Main power unit
* Blower tube and nozzle
* Vacuum tube and shredder head
* 40L collection bag
* Shoulder strap
* User manual
Performance as a Leaf Blower
This is where the tool really shines. The 3000W motor provides impressive force. It easily moves wet, matted leaves from lawns and driveways. The two speed settings are useful:
1. Low speed: Perfect for gathering leaves into piles on calm days.
2. High speed: Excellent for shifting heavier debris or working on breezy days.
The noise level is what you’d expect from a powerful electric blower—it’s loud, so ear protection is a good idea. The main limitation is the cord, which can be a hassle in very large gardens.
Performance as a Vacuum and Shredder
Switching to vacuum mode is simple. You detach the blower nozzle and attach the wider vacuum tube with it’s metal shredder head. The vacuum suction is strong, pulling leaves in efficiently.
The shredding mechanism is the best part. As leaves are sucked in, metal blades chop them into tiny pieces. This reduces the volume of waste dramatically, meaning you empty the bag far less often. The shredded leaves make fantastic mulch or a great addition to your compost pile.
A small word of caution: always wear gloves when emptying the shredder head, as the blades are sharp.
Ease of Use and Handling
Despite it’s power, the BV5600 is manageable for most people. The shoulder strap helps distribute the weight, which is crucial during longer vacuuming sessions. The controls are simple and within easy reach of your thumb.
Here’s a typical process for clearing a lawn:
1. Use the blower on high to gather all leaves into a few large piles.
2. Switch to vacuum mode.
3. Vacuum the piles, shredding them as you go.
4. Empty the collection bag into your compost bin.
You’ll find the bag fills up slowly thanks to the shredder, which is a huge time-saver.
Maintenance and Storage
Keeping the BV5600 in good shape is easy. After each use, especially in vacuum mode, I recommend a quick clean out. Check the shredder blades for any stuck debris and clear the intake area.
For storage, the tubes can be detached. The unit hangs neatly on a wall hook in a shed or garage. The bag is durable but can develop small holes over time if you’re not careful with sharp twigs.
Pros and Cons: A Gardener’s Summary
After extensive use, here’s my balanced take.
Pros:
* Extremely powerful blowing and suction.
* Shredder works brilliantly, reducing waste volume significantly.
* No batteries to charge—consistent power.
* Straightforward assembly and switching between modes.
* Shredded leaves are perfect for compost.
Cons:
* Being corded limits range and requires an extension cord.
* Can be quite noisy on the highest setting.
* The collection bag attachment can sometimes come loose if you’re not careful.
* Not ideal for sucking up large, hard debris like acorns.
Who Is The BV5600 Best For?
This tool is a fantastic fit for gardeners with small to medium-sized plots who have a lot of deciduous trees. If you’re tired of raking and bagging whole leaves, the shredding function is a game-changer. It’s also great for anyone who wants to create their own mulch and improve their compost.
However, if you have a very large garden (over half an acre) with no convenient outlets, the cord will frustrate you. For those situations, a capable battery model might be better, though you’d likely sacrifice some power.
Final Verdict
The Black & Decker BV5600 is a highly effective and time-saving garden tool. It’s powerful, does exactly what it promises, and the shredding feature adds real value beyond simple cleanup. While the cord is a compromise, the consistent high performance is a worthy trade-off for most.
If you want a single tool to clear and process autumn leaves efficiently, the BV5600 is an excellent choice. It turns a tedious chore into a quick job and gives you a useful end product for your garden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the Black and Decker leaf vacuum pick up wet leaves?
Yes, it can handle damp leaves reasonably well in blower mode. In vacuum mode, very wet leaves may clump and potentially clog the shredder, so it’s best to let things dry out a bit if possible.
How do you clean the BV5600 shredder blades?
Always unplug the tool first. Use a stick or a gloved hand to carefully remove any tangled debris from the blades. Avoid using water directly on the motor unit.
What extension cord should I use with this electric leaf blower?
You must use a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord rated for at least 13 amps. A 50-foot 14-gauge cord is a good minimum for proper power delivery and safety.
Is the Black and Decker BV5600 bag washable?
The collection bag is not designed to be machine washed. You can turn it inside out and shake it thoroughly, or use a brush to remove fine dust particals.
Can it vacuum up pine needles?
Absolutely. It’s excellent for pine needles, both blowing and vacuuming them. The shredder will break them down into a fine material for compost.