First use
Before operating your Milwaukee M18 FUEL 3017-20 blower for the first time:
- Charge your M18 battery to maximum
Insert an M18 REDLITHIUM battery into the appropriate Milwaukee charger and wait for the charge indicator light to show a full charge before first use to maximize cell life. - Insert the battery into the blower
Slide the M18 battery into the slot at the base of the tool until it firmly clicks into place. REDLINK PLUS intelligence automatically establishes communication between the tool and the battery. - Test the variable speed trigger
Gradually press the trigger to familiarize yourself with the POWERSTATE motor's response. The blower reaches maximum RPM in less than one second — start at low speed for sensitive environments. - Engage the cruise lock if necessary
For extended sessions, engage the ambidextrous cruise lock to maintain the selected speed without finger fatigue during continuous landscaping tasks.
Regular maintenance
To maximize the lifespan of your Milwaukee M18 FUEL blower and batteries:
After each use:
Remove the battery and store it separately in a dry, temperate place
Visually inspect the nozzle and air duct for obstructions or debris buildup
Wipe the outside of the tool with a dry cloth to remove accumulated dust and dirt
Recommended monthly maintenance:
Clean the brushless motor's ventilation vents with low-pressure compressed air to prevent fine dust accumulation
Inspect the battery connector for any moisture or corrosion and remove with a dry cloth
Check the condition of the cruise lock and trigger — report any abnormal play to Milwaukee after-sales service
M18 battery management:
Maintain batteries between 20 and 80% charge for long-term storage
Avoid repeated complete discharges, which reduce the lifespan of lithium-ion cells
Plan for two batteries in rotation for intensive workdays on maintenance sites
Cleaning and maintenance
Cleaning the air duct and nozzle:
Remove the interchangeable nozzle and rinse it with lukewarm water if wet debris or sap has accumulated; dry completely before reinstalling
Inspect the internal air duct with a flashlight for any obstructions; clear with low-pressure compressed air
Cleaning the housing and controls:
Wipe the outer housing with a slightly damp cloth; never use solvents, chemical agents, or abrasive cleaners that could damage plastic finishes and seals
Clean the battery connector with a dry cloth; do not use water or liquids near electrical contacts
Usage precautions
For your safety and the tool's longevity:
Never point the nozzle at people or animals; the 12.2 N blowing force can propel debris at dangerous speeds, causing eye or skin injuries.
Wear safety glasses and ear protection;
even at 54 dB(A), prolonged exposure without protection can affect hearing during intensive daily use over several hours.
Do not use the tool in confined spaces without adequate ventilation; although the M18 FUEL produces no emissions, airborne debris can create a respiratory hazard in enclosed spaces.
Do not expose the M18 battery to temperatures below minus 20 degrees Celsius; lithium-ion cell performance is reduced in extreme freezing conditions; store batteries in a temperate environment during Quebec winter nights.
Storage tips
Short-term storage (less than 30 days):
Store the blower in a dry, dust-free, and moisture-free place, with the battery removed
Maintain an ambient temperature between 10 and 35 degrees Celsius
Avoid humid environments (uninsulated garages in Quebec winter) that promote condensation on electronic components
Long-term storage (more than 30 days):
Charge the M18 battery to 30-50% before prolonged storage; full charge or total discharge reduces cell lifespan in the long term
Store the tool and battery separately in an environment between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius
Check the battery charge level every 3 months during prolonged storage and recharge if necessary
Winter storage in Quebec:
Never leave M18 batteries in an unheated vehicle at temperatures below minus 20 degrees Celsius; bring them indoors every evening during winter months
The blower itself tolerates cold, but brushless motor performance is optimal between 0 and 40 degrees Celsius