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Snow Blower Buying Guide
Snow blowers (or snow throwers if you prefer) are made with one thing in mind: rapid and efficient removal of snow. If you live in snow country, consider one of these snow-blower options.
Types of Snow Blowers
Snow Blowers
The three main types of snow blowers are two-stage gas, single-stage gas and single-stage electric. Since more than one of these types may be able to handle your typical snow-clearing job, it’s important to consider the advantages of each.
Two-stage blowers are capable of handling snowfalls in excess of 8 inches. These powerful blowers are the best for clearing large areas and have engine-driven wheels to better handle uneven terrain and help reduce operator fatigue. They discharge snow faster and farther than single-stage blowers with the aid of a high-speed impeller located behind the auger. A two-stage model is essential for gravel drives since the clearing auger doesn't touch the ground, elevated slightly by adjustable skid shoes.
Single-stage blowers are lighter and easier to handle than two-stage models. These blowers are best for clearing midsized areas with snowfalls of 8 inches or less. Snow is directed out the discharge chute by the auger. Although the wheels aren't engine-driven, all single-stage units have augers that contact the surface, providing limited forward-drive action. They are best used on paved surfaces.
Choosing a Snow Blower
Ask these five questions to ensure you get the snow blower that's best for your needs.
- How much snow?
For light snowfalls of 6 inches or less, single-stage units should be sufficient. For medium to heavy snowfalls, a two-stage unit offers the larger engine and intake area needed to clear more snow quickly. - How much area needs to be cleared?
For smaller driveways, single-stage units can do the job. For driveways over 40 feet, a two-stage unit is a better choice. - What kind of snow is it?
Single-stage units can handle light snow. A two-stage unit has an impeller to help prevent clogging in heavy, wet snow. And specially serrated augers cut through hard-packed snow or ice. - What type of terrain?
A wheel drive will work best on flat terrain. Tire chains can be used with some models to enhance traction in all conditions. - Which features do you want?
- Electric Start: Simple, effortless starts
- Single-Hand Operation: Adjust the direction and height of snow blowing on the go
- Speed Control: Adjusts to multiple forward and reverse speeds
- Power Steering: Allows superior maneuverability
- Halogen work lights to help you see in low light
- Heated handgrips for added comfort
Features to Look for in a Snow Blower
- Engines: 123cc to 420cc (cubic centimeters)
- Clearing Widths: 21 to 45 inches (larger clearing width for large driveways reduces chore time)
- Intake Height: 10 to 21 inches
- Gauge of material for durability and multiple augers for continued use if one auger malfunctions
- Cast-iron gear case for durability
- Adjustable overhead discharge chute valve (OHV) engine
- Drift cutters to cut through deep snow
- Access to bearings for easier maintenance
- Larger clearing width for large driveways reduces chore time
- Large tires for better traction and easy steering
- Single-hand operation allows easy adjustments
- Heated handgrips for added comfort
- Adjustable chute direction and pitch
- Skid shoes to lift intake off ground; ideal for uneven surfaces
- Halogen work lights to help you see in low light