Black And Decker Bv5600 Review

If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile blower vac for your garden, you’ve probably come across the Black and Decker BV5600. This review will give you a comprehensive and unbiased analysis of the BV5600, helping you decide if it’s the right tool for your yard work.

As a gardener, I know you need equipment that works hard without fuss. This machine promises to be a 3-in-1 solution: a blower, a vacuum, and a leaf mulcher. Let’s see how it holds up in real-world use, from its power and performance to its practical pros and cons.

At its core, the BV5600 is designed to simplify autumn cleanup and general garden tidying. It’s an electric model, so you’ll need an extension cord or a nearby outlet. The main appeal is its ability to switch functions quickly, turning from a blower to a vacuum that shreds leaves into a collection bag.

Key Features and Specifications

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here’s a quick look at what the BV5600 offers:

Motor: 12 Amp electric motor.
Air Speed: Up to 180 MPH as a blower.
Mulching Ratio: 16:1 – it reduces 16 bags of leaves to about 1 bag of mulch.
Collection Bag: 1.6 bushel capacity.
Weight: Approximately 8.5 lbs (without the cord or bag attached).
Noise Level: Noticeably quieter than most gas-powered models.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Out of the box, the BV5600 feels lightweight and well-balanced. Assembly is straightforward, involving just a few clicks to attach the main tube and the desired end piece. The instructions are clear, and you can have it ready to go in under 10 minutes. The build quality feels sturdy for a tool in this price range, with no obvious cheap plastic parts.

What’s Included in the Box?

The main unit with motor and handle.
Blower nozzle attachment.
Vacuum tube and intake nozzle.
Collection bag with shoulder strap.
A simple manual.

Performance as a Leaf Blower

In blower mode, the BV5600 has plenty of power for most residential tasks. The 180 MPH air speed is effective for moving dry leaves, grass clippings, and light debris off driveways, patios, and lawns. It’s not the most powerfull blower on the market, but for its class, it performs admirably.

It excels at clearing corners and garden beds where a rake is awkward to use. The variable speed trigger lets you control the airflow, which is great for delicate jobs like clearing flower beds without damaging your plants. One minor gripe is the lack of a cruise control or lock-on button for the trigger; your finger can get tired during prolonged use.

Performance as a Leaf Vacuum and Mulcher

This is where the BV5600 truly shines. Switching to vacuum mode is simple: you detach the blower nozzle and click on the wider vacuum tube and collection bag. The vacuum suction is strong, pulling leaves in efficiently. The metal mulching impeller chops leaves into tiny pieces as they pass through.

The 16:1 reduction ratio is not just marketing. It really does shrink a massive pile of leaves into a small amount of nutrient-rich mulch for your garden beds. The collection bag fills up slowly thanks to this mulching action, meaning you make fewer trips to the compost pile.

Attach the vacuum tube and bag. Ensure all clicks are secure.
Start on a lower speed to pick up the initial layer of leaves.
Increase power as needed for thicker piles or damp leaves.
Empty the bag when it’s about 3/4 full to maintain optimal suction.

Maneuverability and Ease of Use

Weighing under 9 pounds, the BV5600 is easy to carry and use for extended periods. The shoulder strap on the collection bag helps distribute the weight when it starts to get full. The design allows you to get close to the ground without excessive bending, which your back will thank you for.

The biggest limitation is the power cord. You’ll need a good, heavy-duty outdoor extension cord (14-gauge or lower). Managing the cord while working can be a slight hassle, especially around bushes and trees. This is the trade-off for not having the maintenance and noise of a gas engine.

Maintenance and Storage

Caring for the BV5600 is refreshingly simple. After use, especially in vacuum mode, it’s a good idea to clean it out to prevent corrosion and keep it smelling fresh.

Always unplug the tool before performing any maintenance.
Empty the collection bag and shake out any debris from the tube.
Check the mulcher impeller occasionally for tangled string or debris.
Store the unit in a dry place, like a garden shed or garage.

The tool has few moving parts that require regular service, which is a major advantage over gas models. There’s no engine oil, spark plugs, or fuel filters to worry about.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

After testing this tool over multiple seasons, here’s my honest breakdown.

Pros

Excellent mulching capability drastically reduces waste volume.
Lightweight and easy to maneuver for users of all strengths.
Quieter than gas blowers, making it more neighbor-friendly.
Simple switching between blower and vacuum functions.
Low maintenance and no fumes or fuel mixing required.

Cons

Power cord limits range and requires cord management.
Not suitable for very large properties or wet, heavy leaves.
The collection bag can be tricky to attach perfectly on the first try.
No trigger lock for continuous blower operation.

Who Is The BV5600 Best For?

The Black and Decker BV5600 is an ideal choice for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. It’s perfect if you have multiple trees that drop leaves, garden beds that benefit from mulch, and a accessible outdoor power source. It’s also a great option if you prefer a quieter, more eco-friendly tool and want to avoid the maintenance of gas engine.

It’s probably not the best fit if you have a very large acreage, where a cordless or gas model would offer more freedom. It also struggles somewhat with damp, matted leaves, which can clog the intake.

Final Verdict

The Black and Decker BV5600 delivers on its core promises. It’s a capable blower, a powerful vacuum, and an efficient mulcher all in one affordable package. While the cord is a limitation and it has a few minor ergonomic quirks, its overall performance and value for money are impressive. For the average gardener facing seasonal leaf cleanup, it’s a reliable and highly useful tool that can save you time and effort.

It simplifies the process of turning a messy yard into neat garden mulch. If your needs align with its design, the BV5600 is a purchase you’re unlikely to regret.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does the Black and Decker BV5600 handle wet leaves?

It can handle slightly damp leaves, but truly wet, soggy leaves will likely clog the vacuum intake. It’s best to let leaves dry a bit or use it in blower mode for wet debris.

What extension cord should I use with this electric leaf blower?

You should use a 14-gauge (or thicker) outdoor-rated extension cord that is no longer than 100 feet for optimal power delivery. A thinner or longer cord will reduce its performance.

Is the mulch from the BV5600 good for the garden?

Yes! The finely shredded leaf mulch is excellent for adding to compost piles or using as a protective layer around plants. It helps retain soil moisture and adds organic matter as it decomposes.

Can you vacuum acorns or small twigs with the BV5600?

It’s designed primarily for leaves and light debris. Small, thin twigs might be okay, but acorns, rocks, or large sticks should be raked up first. They can damage the plastic impeller or cause jams.

How loud is the BV5600 blower/vac?

While quieter than gas models, it’s still quite loud. Ear protection is recommended, especially for prolonged use. It’s much more pleasant for you and your neighbors than a gas-powered alternative though.