Black+Decker LB700 Blower Problems | Repair Guide

The Black+Decker LB700 is the budget king of corded electric blowers. At under $30, it handles light leaf clearing without gas engine hassles or expensive batteries. The simple design means fewer things to break, and most problems have straightforward solutions. This guide covers common issues and fixes to keep your LB700 working.

Table of Contents

• LB700 Overview
• Power Issues
• Motor Problems
• Performance
• Physical Issues
• Maintenance
• Troubleshooting Quick Reference
• Frequently Asked Questions

LB700 Overview

The LB700 is designed for light-duty use at an entry-level price point.

Specification	Value
Motor	7 amp
CFM	180
MPH	180
Weight	4.4 lbs
Cord	User-supplied extension required
Warranty	2 years

The LB700 delivers basic blowing power at a budget-friendly price

Best for: Small yards, driveways, patios, decks, garages, and light debris. This is not designed for heavy leaf coverage or large properties - think of it as a broom replacement, not a professional landscaping tool.

Key advantages:

• Extremely affordable (under $30)
• No fuel, oil, or battery to manage
• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Simple design with few parts to fail
• Instant power - no starting procedure

Power Issues

Won’t Turn On

Check in order:

1. Outlet power - Test with another device
2. Extension cord - Must be 14-gauge or heavier for full power
3. Cord connections - Check both ends
4. Trigger switch - Press firmly

Extension cord requirements:

• Up to 50 feet: 16-gauge minimum
• 50-100 feet: 14-gauge minimum
• Over 100 feet: 12-gauge required

Intermittent Power

Cuts in and out:

1. Extension cord connection loose
2. Cord damaged internally
3. Trigger switch worn
4. Internal wire connection

Test with different extension cord first - most common cause.

Trips Circuit Breaker

Blower starts but breaker trips:

1. Circuit overloaded (other items on same circuit)
2. Extension cord too long or too thin
3. Motor issue drawing excessive current
4. Outlet/wiring problem

GFCI Outlet Trips

Ground fault interrupt triggers:

1. Moisture in connections
2. Damaged cord insulation
3. Internal motor short
4. Normal GFCI sensitivity with motors

Try non-GFCI outlet if available. Some GFCI outlets are overly sensitive to motor startup surge.

Motor Problems

Motor Won’t Run

Power present but no motor:

1. Trigger switch failed
2. Motor brushes worn (if brush motor)
3. Motor windings damaged
4. Thermal overload tripped

Motor Runs Slow

Less speed than normal:

1. Extension cord too light gauge
2. Low voltage at outlet
3. Motor brushes worn
4. Bearing drag

Motor Overheats

Gets hot and shuts off:

1. Extended continuous use
2. Blocked intake
3. Internal motor issue
4. Ambient temperature high

Allow 15-30 minutes to cool. This is a light-duty tool - not designed for extended continuous operation.

Unusual Motor Sounds

Grinding: Bearing failure likely Sparking visible: Brush motor normal, excessive = problem High-pitched whine: Normal under load

Motor Smells

Burning smell:

1. Stop immediately
2. Check for debris wrapped around motor
3. Motor may be failing
4. Don’t continue use

Performance

Weak Airflow

Less output than expected:

1. Extension cord inadequate
2. Intake blocked
3. Tube not connected
4. Internal obstruction

Speed Control Issues

If equipped with variable speed:

1. Clean dial/trigger
2. Check connections
3. Speed controller may be failing

Tube Problems

Tube won’t stay on:

1. Check connection method
2. Clean mating surfaces
3. Inspect for cracks
4. May need replacement

Physical Issues

Trigger Problems

Sticking or non-responsive:

1. Clean trigger area
2. Check for debris
3. Switch may be worn
4. Internal connection issue

Handle Vibration

Excessive vibration:

1. Normal for this price point
2. Check for loose parts
3. Fan may be unbalanced
4. Bearing wear

Cord Management

Cord gets in the way:

1. Use cord retention hook if equipped
2. Route cord over shoulder
3. Work away from outlet
4. Use proper length extension

Maintenance

After Each Use

• Unplug
• Clear debris from intake
• Wipe exterior
• Coil cord properly

Monthly

• Clean intake thoroughly
• Inspect cord for damage
• Check tube condition
• Clean trigger area

Annually

• Complete inspection
• Check all connections
• Verify cord integrity
• Replace if worn

Storage

• Store indoors
• Protect cord from damage
• Keep clean and dry
• Avoid temperature extremes

When to Replace

At under $30, the LB700 is often cheaper to replace than repair.

Replace when:

• Motor fails
• Switch fails
• Burning smell
• Cord damage at tool

May be worth fixing:

• Extension cord issue
• Tube replacement
• Intake cleaning

Safety Notes

Corded blower safety:

• Always use grounded outlet
• Inspect cords before each use
• Don’t use in wet conditions
• Keep cord away from blower path
• Unplug before any maintenance

Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Problem	Likely Cause	Solution
Won’t turn on	No outlet power	Test outlet
Won’t turn on	Bad extension cord	Try different cord
Intermittent power	Loose cord connection	Check connections
Trips breaker	Overloaded circuit	Use dedicated circuit
Trips GFCI	Motor sensitivity	Try non-GFCI outlet
Runs slow	Undersized cord	Use heavier gauge
Overheats	Extended use	Let cool 15-30 min
Weak airflow	Blocked intake	Clear debris
Burning smell	Motor failing	Stop use immediately
Excessive vibration	Fan imbalance	Check for debris

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the LB700 powerful enough for my needs?

For small areas, driveways, patios and light leaves, yes. The 180 CFM output handles dry leaves and light debris effectively. It’s not designed for large yards, heavy leaf coverage, or wet debris. Think of it as a powered broom rather than a professional landscaping tool.

Why do I need a heavy-gauge extension cord?

Thin extension cords can’t deliver full current to the motor. The result is a motor that runs weak and a cord that heats up dangerously. For the LB700’s 7-amp motor, use at least 14-gauge cord for runs up to 100 feet. Longer runs need 12-gauge. Using the right cord makes a noticeable difference in performance.

How long should an LB700 last?

With typical light residential use (clearing driveways, patios, and small areas), 3-5+ years is reasonable. Heavy or extended use shortens lifespan. Store it indoors and keep the intake clear to maximize longevity.

Should I repair or replace a broken LB700?

At under $30, replacement usually makes more sense than any significant repair. If the motor fails, switch fails, or there’s internal damage, buy a new one. Simple fixes like trying a different extension cord or clearing debris are worth attempting first.

Why does my LB700 trip the GFCI outlet?

GFCI outlets are sensitive to the electrical characteristics of motor startup. The initial surge when the motor starts can trigger some GFCI circuits even when nothing is wrong. Try a non-GFCI outlet if available, or use a longer extension cord to reach a regular outlet.

Can I use the LB700 on wet leaves?

Not recommended. Wet leaves are much heavier than dry ones, and the LB700’s 180 CFM isn’t enough to move them effectively. Wait for leaves to dry, or use a more powerful blower for wet debris.

Use the right gauge extension cord for full power and safety

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• Leaf Blower Won’t Start
• Backpack Blower Problems

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The Black+Decker LB700 does one job well at a bargain price. Use a proper extension cord, keep the intake clear, and it handles light leaf duty reliably for years. When it eventually wears out, the low replacement cost means you’re not out much.