The Echo PB 2520 delivers impressive air volume for its weight class, making it a favorite among homeowners with moderate leaf cleanup needs. This echo pb 2520 review will break down everything you need to know before buying this popular handheld blower.
You want a blower that starts easily, feels comfortable, and actually moves leaves. The PB 2520 promises all three. Let’s see if it delivers.
Echo Pb 2520 Review: First Impressions And Build Quality
Right out of the box, the Echo PB 2520 feels solid. The plastic housing is thick and durable. It does not have that cheap, hollow feel you get with some budget blowers.
The overall design is compact. You won’t struggle to store it in a small garage or shed. The controls are simple and within easy reach.
Echo designed this unit for the homeowner. It is not a commercial-grade machine, but it is built to last for years of regular yard work. The air filter is easy to access, which is a big plus for maintenance.
Key Specifications At A Glance
- Engine: 21.2 cc professional-grade 2-stroke
- Air Volume: 452 CFM (cubic feet per minute)
- Air Speed: 170 MPH (miles per hour)
- Weight: 9.5 pounds (dry, without fuel)
- Fuel Tank: 13.6 fluid ounces
- Starting System: Spring assist
These numbers are solid for a handheld unit. You get enough power to clear dry leaves from driveways and sidewalks. It will also handle light grass clippings and debris on patios.
The 170 MPH air speed is the key metric here. That is enough force to move wet, matted leaves if you get the nozzle close to the ground. You won’t need to rake as much as you think.
Engine Performance And Power Delivery
The heart of this machine is the 21.2 cc two-stroke engine. Echo calls this their “professional-grade” power source. It is a proven design that has been around for a while.
Starting the blower is easier than you might expect. The spring assist system reduces the effort needed to pull the cord. On a cold start, you need to prime the bulb and set the choke.
- Press the primer bulb 5 times or until fuel is visible.
- Move the choke lever to the closed position.
- Pull the starter cord firmly until the engine fires.
- Move the choke to the open position.
- Pull the cord again to start the engine.
Once running, the engine idles smoothly. The throttle trigger is responsive. You get immediate power when you squeeze it. There is no noticeable lag or hesitation.
The vibration levels are moderate. You will feel some buzz in your hands after 15 minutes of use. It is not the smoothest blower on the market, but it is far from the worst. Wearing gloves helps a lot.
Fuel Efficiency And Mixing
Like all Echo two-stroke tools, the PB 2520 requires a 50:1 gas-to-oil ratio. You must mix the fuel yourself. Echo recommends using their brand of oil, but any high-quality synthetic 2-stroke oil works.
The 13.6-ounce fuel tank is a decent size. You can expect to run for about 30 to 40 minutes on a full tank, depending on how hard you are working the throttle. For a typical suburban yard, that is usually enough time to finish the job.
One thing to note: running the blower at full throttle constantly will drain the tank faster. Try to use variable speed when possible. This saves fuel and reduces noise.
Comfort And Ergonomics
Weight is a major factor in any blower review. At 9.5 pounds dry, the PB 2520 is not the lightest handheld blower. However, the weight is well-balanced.
The harness system is simple. It is just a strap that goes over your shoulder. This helps distribute the weight and takes the strain off your arms. You should definitely use the strap for longer sessions.
The handle is a standard loop design. It is comfortable for most hand sizes. The throttle trigger is positioned where your index finger naturally rests. The cruise control lever is a nice touch.
Using The Cruise Control Feature
The cruise control locks the throttle at a set speed. This is very useful when you are moving large areas of leaves. You do not have to keep your finger squeezed on the trigger.
To engage it, simply push the throttle trigger and then slide the cruise control lever forward. To release it, tap the trigger again. It is a simple, effective system that reduces hand fatigue.
However, the blower does feel a bit front-heavy when you hold it with one hand. The engine is mounted at the rear, but the long nozzle creates some leverage. Using two hands is recommended for best control.
Noise Levels And Vibration
This is a two-stroke engine, so it is not quiet. Echo claims a noise rating of 65 dB(A) at 50 feet. In reality, it sounds louder when you are holding it. You should always wear hearing protection.
Neighbors will know you are using it. It has that classic two-stroke whine. It is not as loud as some older models, but it is not whisper-quiet either. Try to use it during reasonable hours.
Vibration is present but manageable. Echo includes anti-vibration mounts on the engine. They do a decent job of isolating the handle from the worst of the shaking. Your hands might feel numb after a long job, but it is acceptable for this class.
Maintenance And Longevity
Owning a leaf blower means doing some maintenance. The Echo PB 2520 is designed to be easy to work on. The air filter cover is secured with a simple knob. You can clean or replace the filter in under a minute.
The spark plug is easy to reach. The fuel filter is located inside the tank. You will need to replace it every couple of seasons. The manual provides clear instructions for all of this.
One common issue with two-stroke engines is carbon buildup. Using the correct fuel mix and high-quality oil will minimize this. Running the engine at full throttle for a few minutes before shutting it off helps clear out excess oil.
Winter Storage Tips
- Drain all the fuel from the tank.
- Run the engine until it stalls to empty the carburetor.
- Remove the spark plug and add a teaspoon of oil to the cylinder.
- Pull the starter cord slowly to coat the cylinder walls.
- Reinstall the spark plug and store the blower upright.
Following these steps will ensure the blower starts right up next spring. Many people skip this and end up with a clogged carburetor. A few minutes of prep saves you a trip to the repair shop.
Comparison To Other Blowers
How does the PB 2520 stack up against the competition? It sits in the middle of the handheld blower market. It is more powerful than the basic entry-level models from other brands.
Compared to the ECHO PB-580T, the 2520 is much lighter and less powerful. The 580T is a commercial beast. For most homeowners, the 2520 is more than enough.
Against the Husqvarna 125B, the Echo is slightly more powerful. The Husqvarna is a bit lighter, but the Echo has a better air volume rating. It is a close call, but the Echo often wins on price.
The Stihl BGA 57 is an electric alternative. It is quieter and has no fuel mixing. However, it lacks the runtime and raw power of the gas-powered Echo. You have to decide what matters more to you.
Where The Echo Pb 2520 Fits Best
This blower is ideal for small to medium-sized lots. If you have a large property with heavy tree cover, you might want a backpack blower. The handheld design will get tiring after 30 minutes of heavy use.
It is perfect for clearing driveways, sidewalks, and patios. It also works well for blowing grass clippings off the lawn after mowing. It is a versatile tool for general yard cleanup.
You should not use this for moving heavy, wet debris. It will struggle with piles of wet oak leaves. You will need to break up the piles or use a rake for the heavy stuff.
Pros And Cons Summary
Let’s recap the strengths and weaknesses of this machine.
What We Like
- Strong air volume for the price
- Reliable spring-assist starting
- Easy access to the air filter
- Good fuel efficiency
- Durable construction
- Comfortable cruise control
What Could Be Better
- Not the lightest blower in its class
- Noticeable vibration at full throttle
- Noisy, like all gas blowers
- Requires mixing fuel
These pros outweigh the cons for most people. The power-to-weight ratio is very good. You are getting a lot of performance for your money.
Price And Value For Money
The Echo PB 2520 is priced competitively. It usually sits in the mid-range of the handheld blower market. You can often find it for under $200, which is a great deal for this level of performance.
Compared to buying a cheap blower that lasts one season, the Echo is a better investment. It is built to last. The parts are readily available if you need to repair it down the road.
Echo offers a 5-year consumer warranty. This gives you peace of mind. If the tool fails due to a defect, Echo will repair or replace it. That is a strong guarantee for a homeowner tool.
You also get Echo’s “Lifetime” warranty on the ignition coil and flywheel. This is rare in the industry. It shows confidence in their build quality.
Final Verdict And Recommendation
So, is the Echo PB 2520 worth buying? Yes, for the right person. If you have a typical suburban yard and you are tired of raking, this blower will save you time and effort.
It is not a professional tool. It is not designed for daily commercial use. But for weekend yard work, it is an excellent choice. It offers a great balance of power, weight, and price.
You will appreciate the easy starting. You will appreciate the strong air blast. You will appreciate the simple maintenance. This is a tool that does its job without fuss.
If you have a huge property with lots of trees, consider a backpack model. But for most people, the PB 2520 is the perfect amount of blower. It is a smart purchase that will last you many seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Echo PB 2520 A Good Leaf Blower?
Yes, it is a very good leaf blower for homeowners. It has strong air volume and speed for its size. It is reliable and easy to start. It handles most residential leaf cleanup tasks effectively.
How Much Oil Do You Put In An Echo PB 2520?
You need to mix the fuel at a 50:1 ratio. This means 2.6 fluid ounces of 2-stroke oil per gallon of gasoline. Use a high-quality oil designed for air-cooled engines.
What Is The Difference Between The Echo PB 2520 And The PB 255?
The PB 2520 is the newer model. It has a slightly different engine tuning and a redesigned air filter housing. The performance is very similar. The 2520 is generally a bit lighter and more compact.
Does The Echo PB 2520 Have A Metal Fan?
No, the PB 2520 uses a plastic impeller fan. This is common in homeowner-grade blowers. The plastic fan is lighter and quieter than metal. It is durable enough for normal use.
Can I Use Ethanol-free Gas In The Echo PB 2520?
Yes, you should use ethanol-free gas if possible. Ethanol can attract moisture and damage the fuel system over time. Ethanol-free fuel will make the blower run better and last longer.
Overall, this echo pb 2520 review shows a solid, dependable machine. It is not flashy, but it works. It is a tool you will reach for every time the leaves start to fall. It is a great addition to any homeowner’s garage.