A chipper shredder vacuum, also known as a shredder vac, is a tool that enables you to remove and chop unwanted leaves and small branches with ease. The best chipper shredder vacuum will have adjustable ground clearance, will have a fuel-efficient engine, and will be CARB compliant (Source).

When leaves, twigs and other debris clutter your lawn, a chipper shredder vacuum provides an effective solution. A chipper shredder vacuum is the combination of a rake, a mulcher, and a vacuum into one easy to use the machine. Chipper shredder vacuums are great for yard cleanup. They make the removal of unwanted leaves and small branches extremely convenient and easy.

Lawn maintenance can be tedious and time-consuming, but a chipper shredder vacuum can make things a lot easier. Chipper shredders vacuums can reduce eight bags of yard debris into just one. This allows you to have a neat and tidy lawn and saves you time in the process (Source).

There are a lot of things to know about chipper shredder vacuums, so it can be somewhat difficult to decide which one to buy. Before buying a chipper shredder vacuum, you should consider its warranty, price, and whether or not it has an adjustable ground clearance. It’s also important to consider the noise level of the engine.

In this list, we will take an in-depth look at all the top-rated chipper shredder vacuums. All of the chipper shredder vacuums in this review will remove unwanted leaves and small branches with ease, whether it’s for your yard at home or you’re running a landscaping business.

How Much Will a Chipper Shredder Vacuum Cost?

There are a variety of options and features that affect the price of a chipper shredder vacuum. Chipper shredder vacuums, in various sizes, are available from equipment rental stores starting at $100/day.

If you wish to buy a unit, chipper shredder vacuums cost between $500-$700. Higher-end machines range from $1,300 and up, depending on size and capability.

What Is The Best Chipper Shredder Vacuum?

The best chipper shredder vacuum is the Patriot CBV-2455H, mainly due to its ability to clear a wide, 24-inch path in just one pass. Additionally, you can convert this shredder vacuum into a blower by flipping the handle, which isn’t possible with many other brands.

Comparing the Top 5 Models

Best Chipper Shredder Vacuums: Our Top 5 Picks 

1. Patriot Products CBV-2455H 24-Inch Honda Gas Powered Walk Behind 3-In-1  Best Overall

No products found.

The Patriot Chipper Shredder Vacuum is considered one of the best chipper shredder vacuums. It is designed with the average homeowner in mind. It requires only 15 minutes of assembly out of the box.

With the handle collapsed, this unit is compact enough to fit into minivans and SUVs.

2. Earthquake TAZZ 30520 Heavy Duty 212cc Gas Powered 4 Cycle Viper Engine 3:1 – The Most Durable

The Tazz Chipper Shredder is a high-performing compact machine. The hopper stands only 34″ high, requiring only minimal effort to fill.

The additional Earthquake leaf shredder vacuum kit produces 20% more vacuum suction than similar chipper shredder vacuums.

3. Troy-Bilt 159cc Push 3-in-1 – The Most Easy-To-Maintain

No products found.

The Troy-Bilt chipper shredder lawn vacuum can turn eight bags of debris into one. This versatile product is made of quality, heavy-duty, cast-aluminum, and steel parts.

4. Merry Mac Walk-Behind Chipper/Vacuum – 250cc Engine, Model VCB1100M – The Most Powerful 

No products found.

The Merry Mac chipper shredder vacuum is a top of the line option. This self-propelled chipper shredder vacuum provides ease of use for consumers of all ages.

This chipper shredder vacuum features hammerless two-stage cutting action reducing debris quickly. One of the disadvantages of an electric chipper shredder vacuum is that it is unable to handle heavy-duty jobs. However, they are quieter and easier to maintain than gas-powered machines.

5. Craftsman Gas Powered 3-in-1 Push Chipper Shredder 163cc 4-Cycle Engine 8:1 – The Best Compact Chipper/Vacuum

No products found.

The Craftsman push chipper shredder vacuum features a reach-extending 7-foot hose. It also includes a 3-foot extension tube to collect acorns and other small lawn debris.

The Craftsman chipper/shredder yard vacuum features small wheels for easy maneuverability on all terrain.

Chipper Shredder Vacuum Brands

Patriot Products

Patriot Products was founded in 1992 and produces superior lawn maintenance equipment at an affordable price. They design a line of wood chipper shredders and lawn vacuum blowers for professionals and homeowners.

Their American-made lawn vacuum designs boast of quality and dependability. Patriot Products proudly offers a 90-day return guarantee on all of their products.

Earthquake

Earthquake is a brand produced by the Ardisam corporation. Ardisam began production in 1960 in a small metal fabricating shop in Wisconsin. They are an international manufacturer of seasonal outdoor products.

Ardisam designs and performs quality tests on its Earthquake products in the United States. Manufacturing takes place overseas in their partner factories. Their goal is to meet the highest standards of quality.

Troy-Bilt

Troy-Bilt has been manufacturing landscaping and farming equipment since 1937. This innovative company is headquartered in Valley City, Ohio, with multiple manufacturing locations located across the country. They have a reputation for producing quality and durable American-made tools.

Merry Mac

Merry Mac is a brand produced by Northern Tool + Equipment. This company supplies consumer goods, as well as industrial equipment. They offer more than 30,000 products on their website.

Northern Tool + Equipment is a family business that serves millions of customers throughout the United States.

CRAFTSMAN

For over a century, CRAFTSMAN has been an American icon in tool manufacturing. Initially owned by Sears, the brand is now owned and controlled by Stanley Black & Decker

Currently, they are focused on building factories and providing jobs in the U.S.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing A Chipper Shredder Vacuum

To choose the best chipper shredder vacuum to meet your needs, consider the landscape and yard debris you will be tackling each season of the year.

Small details are what make the difference in choosing the best option for you.

For example: Do you have the storage space available for a larger machine or would a compact option be a better choice?

One of the biggest factors to consider is whether to buy a gas-powered or an electric chipper shredder vacuum.

Gas equipment has limited usage before the gas needs to be replenished. An electric chipper shredder vacuum is convenient. However, the extension cord prohibits the consumer from moving freely around their property.

Gas chipper shredder vacuums can handle more massive debris and are quicker because they have more powerful engines.

Electric models do not offer the same level of power as gas leaf vacuum mulcher. However, they eliminate the frustration consumers experience from repeatedly cranking a gas-powered chipper shredder.

Another consideration when making a purchase is to decide if you want a detachable hose or a permanent fixture. Detachable hoses give you the ability to extend into hard to reach places. Although less convenient, a built-in vacuum typically offers more suction.

Likewise, if you are worried about the season’s turn, and leaves cluttering in your yard or garden, then we highly recommend buying a backpack leaf blower that keeps your garden clean.

Chipper Shredder Vacuum Accessories

Most chipper shredder vacuums come with everything you need to get started. However, some accessory modifications can upgrade your equipment to meet your specific needs.

Installing a tow bar kit allows you to pull the chipper shredder vacuum behind a riding lawnmower or tractor. This will provide easy mobility and transport to storage.

The purchase and use of water and stain-resistant cover will keep your chipper shredder vacuum in pristine condition.

Patriot Products has created a handy tool called the “Chipper Buddy.” This clever device allows operators to safely clear material from their wood chipper. The unique design makes it easy to push material through the hopper without coming into contact with the machine blades.

Some chipper shredder vacuums include a leaf blower, allowing you to clean a pathway or sidewalk while using the vacuum.

Other options and upgrades include longer vacuum hoses, sharper replacement blades, and larger collection bags.

How to Use a Chipper Shredder Vacuum

Here are a few easy steps to start using your Chipper Shredder Vacuum:

• Read the owner’s manual to understand how to use the equipment properly.
• Take a look at your yard and remove any rocks, branches, or anything that could clog your chipper shredder vacuum. This also includes clumps of wet grass and animal excrements.
• Turn your machine on and slowly move across your yard – be careful not to go too fast.
• Be aware that while you are using the leaf vacuum mulcher, debris may get stuck in the machine. Always turn the engine off and wait for the parts to quit moving before removing anything that is jammed in the chipper shredder vacuum.
• After you have worked your way across the entire yard, repurpose the mulch that has been created by the machine. Spread mulch in flower beds, around trees, or in a compost pile.
• Lastly, clean out the collection bag, wipe the machine down and cover to keep parts from being exposed to the elements.

Chipper Shredder Vacuum Tips

Here are a few tips that will prolong the use of your chipper shredder vacuum. 

Due to the stress placed on the blades and motor by regular usage, it’s important not to push your machine past its capability. If your machine’s capacity is to chip a 1.5” branch, refrain from loading debris that is larger than 1.5”.

The wear and tear of constantly pushing your machine past its limits will cause the blades to be dull and the motor to work too hard. One of the primary complaints regarding chipper shredder vacuums is the tendency for the vacuum to clog.

It’s imperative to break down large branches and remove access debris that is too large for the machine. Consumers report that the vibrations produced by regular use of the chipper shredder vacuum, often shake bolts and screws loose. Simply tighten all visible screws before using to help prevent this issue from becoming a problem.

Avoid feeding wet grass, branches, or leaves through your machine. Many manufacturers boast that their chipper shredder can readily handle the challenge of damp foliage. However, those items may get stuck in your chipper shredder vacuum and cause severe problems.

All makes and models of chipper shredder vacuums require monitoring their oil levels. This means replacing the oil regularly and watching for leaks. Air filters should also be replaced on a regular basis.

An Important Safety Reminder

Safety is a priority when using any tool or piece of machinery. Always follow the instructions included in the machine’s manual. 

The grinding and chopping performed by chipper shredder vacuums produce a very loud noise. Use ear protection to keep from damaging your hearing. Research your local city noise ordinances, to discover whether you can operate a large gas chipper shredder vacuum on your property.

Possible injuries include cuts, bruises, and eye injuries from projectile debris. Electrical injuries and fires have been known to occur. Inhaled debris and air pollution can cause breathing issues. Consider wearing an air filtration mask.

For added precautionary safety measures, use hand and eye protection. Never lean over or place your face over the chute while the machine is powered on.

Refrain from wearing open-toed shoes when operating equipment.

Finally, be aware of children and animals that could be in harm’s way.

Ready to Buy a Chipper Shredder Vacuum?

Chipper shredder vacuums offer an environmentally-friendly way to dispose of yard waste. Even small yards require regular cleanup, and this yard vacuum makes it easy. 

The investment of a leaf shredder vacuum goes beyond only the convenience of the product. It allows you to recycle yard debris and saves money because you no longer need to purchase mulch.

Chipper shredder vacuums turn large piles of leaves and debris into smaller, manageable sizes. Reliability, quality, and cost are key factors in choosing the right chipper shredder vacuum.

While this may seem like a luxury purchase, if you value your time, you will find this machine’s immediate value is far beyond the financial investment. Also, do not forget to buy quality mulching blades for your mower. 

Likewise, if you have back pain or disabled and elder persons in your home, reacher grabber tools can be handy for you to retrieve items from areas that are hard to reach without straining. 

Besides leaf mulchers, if you are looking for a device that can turn piles of sticks and branches into small chips, consider buying wood chippers and shredders.