Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Poulan Leaf blower not starting, exact model number, water in the fuel

Question
I have a Poulan Leaf blower that I got a year and a half ago new.  brought it out for this season and it will not start for the life of me!

It is a gas blower and I can get the exact model number but when going through the troubleshooting manual it says it is probably from low compression and to take it to a shop - is anything I can do?  Spark plug looks good - air filter had been cleaned....

Answer
Hi Blake,

Low compression shouldn't be the problem with a fairly new engine.
You will need to determine if the problem is a lack of spark or a lack of fuel flow.  Remove the spark plug, reconnect the wire and lay it against the engine head.  Pull the engine over and watch for spark at the
plug's electrode.

If good, then try to start it while squirting fuel or starting fluid into the carb intake.  If it starts and you can keep it running by adding fuel, then the carb most likely has dirt, debris or gummed fuel inside.   
You will need to remove the carb, disassemble it, clean all the small internal openings and blow it out with compressed air.   Probe each and every hole with a
small wire.   Adding a carb rebuild kit including a new diaphram, may be a good idea.  

Also check for water in the fuel and a good fuel flow from the tank.  

Let me know how you make out.
Michael