When winter is around the corner, and the forecast shows several feet of snow, having a snow blower can be a lifesaver. Investing in the right snow blower not only saves you backbreaking labor but also ensures your driveways and walkways are clear and safe.
But how do you decide between gas and electric models or between a one-stage or two-stage design?
This comprehensive guide reviews the best snow blowers in the market, providing insights to help you make an informed decision. You’ll discover how the power of the best snow blowers can transform your winter experience.
Table of Contents
Top snow blowers pick
Best overall: Troy-Bilt 28 in. 277 cc two-stage gas snow blower with electric start
The Troy-Bilt Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower includes serrated steel augers that break up ice and snow. Its two-stage snow thrower is simple to operate owing to the remote chute control.
This lets you regulate where the snow is flung from a control near the handle, allowing you to swap directions while you plow easily. The model has reinforced gears and includes an in-dash headlight, heated hand grips, trigger control, power steering, and other features.
Pros
- Crank chute control
- The track drive system improves traction
Cons
- Can be difficult to turn
Best gas: Ariens deluxe 28 in. two-stage electric start gas snowblower
This gas-powered snow blower includes a 254cc engine and 14-inch steel drills that allow you to quickly and efficiently move through snow up to 21 inches deep.
It is self-propelled, with six forward and two reverse speeds, and its auto-turn steering makes navigating your driveway and sidewalks a breeze.
The snowblower is fueled by gas, but a 120-volt electric push-button start ensures that it starts quickly—regardless of how cold it is.
Pros
- Metal chute with adjustable spout
- Push-button electric start
Cons
- Small gasoline tank with difficult-to-read gauge
- Auto-turn steering is difficult to use
Best electric: Snow joe 40-volt 18-in single-stage cordless electric snowblower
Electric snow blowers, such as this cordless model from Snow Joe, have less power but require far less maintenance. This battery-powered snow blower has a 40-volt battery that provides up to 50 minutes of operation time per charge and an 18-inch clearing width that is great for small driveways, walkways, and sidewalks.
Its 180-degree chute can throw snow up to 20 feet, and the entire apparatus weighs only 32 pounds, making it portable.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Lightweight at under 32 pounds
Cons
- The rotation of the chute is limited to 180 degrees
- It is less effective in wet, heavy snow
Best compact: Troy-Bilt squall 21 in. 208 cc single-stage gas snow blower with electric start
The manual pitch E-Z Chute control on this snow blower lets you alter the spin up to 190 degrees. The ergonomic handle folds down for simple storage, and the dual-LED lighting improves visibility in low-light circumstances.
Pros
- 4-cycle engine removes the need to mix gas and oil
- Ergonomic handle and design elements
- Dual LED headlights
Cons
- Rubber augers are better suited for fresh snow
- There is no reverse speed
- Only for use on paved surfaces
Snowblower Types
Snow blowers are often classified into three stages, each serving a different need:
- Single-stage: Best for small areas with light snow, these are the most affordable but not suitable for gravel surfaces.
- Two-stage: Common in heavy snow areas, these models are self-propelled and adaptable to various surfaces.
- Three-stage: These luxury options include an additional accelerator for faster snow clearing.
What to Look for When Buying a Snow Blower
- Motor Type: Choose between gas and electric, considering power and maintenance needs.
- Clearing Width: A greater width means faster snow clearing.
- Clearing Depth: Consider how deep the snow blower can clear, especially if you receive heavy snowfall.
- Speed Control: Look for adjustable speed controls for a more tailored experience.
- Electric Start: This feature helps in quick starts.
- Tracks vs. Wheels: Consider tracks if you live on an incline, otherwise, wheels are sufficient.
- Price: Balance features with your budget.
- Additional Features: Consider options like a spinning fan chute, heated handle grips, or electric start capabilities.
Accessories and Warranties
From snow cabs and tire chains to fuel stabilizers, various accessories can enhance your snow-clearing experience. Make sure to also understand the warranty coverage for your machine, as it may vary based on usage and model.
Conclusion
Selecting the right snow blower can make your winter months hassle-free. By understanding the different types and features, you can make a decision that suits your needs and budget. With the best snow blowers highlighted above, you’re now equipped to face the snow with confidence.
FAQs
Are snowblowers hazardous?
Snowblowers operate by churning snow and directing it via a chute. This procedure has the potential to launch ice shards and other accumulated projectiles into the air.
Before clearing a driveway or walkway, be aware of any debris on the ground to avoid running over large rocks or things that could cause harm to property or other persons.
It is also critical to do regular snowblower maintenance, such as oil changes and belt inspections.
How effective are electric snow blowers?
Because electric snow blowers are easier to use than gas snow blowers, it is a gadget that one of your children may use to clear snow from a deck or driveway after a less severe storm.
Lighter storms are unlikely to create enough snow to necessitate the use of a large two- or three-stage snowblower.
While shoveling is a decent alternative at times, it may get monotonous, even in a location that receives moderate snowfalls regularly.
It is convenient to have a dependable electric snow blower that you can plug in to clear a patch of snow before heading to work quickly.
How do I use a snowblower to clear snow from a gravel driveway?
A person might hesitate to use a snow blower on a gravel driveway. It appears improbable that you could successfully remove snow without gathering a lot of gravel and potentially harming or damaging someone or someone’s property by tossing boulders through the chute.
On the other hand, snow on gravel can be safely removed with the appropriate snowblower and properly calibrated. A snow blower with plastic skids around the bottom of the auger housing is required.
This raises the blades off the ground, preventing gravel from being stirred up and thrown into the drill.
Next, set the lock to the highest position, sometimes referred to as the Transport position, so that the auger housing is at an angle above the gravel.
Ideally, you’ll also want a snowblower with tracking wheels rather than standard tires. This enables you to keep the snowblower at a constant upward angle over the gravel.
To clear snow on gravel terrain, only two- or three-stage gas snow blowers are available. This method will leave a thin layer of snow on the ground, which will melt after a few hours in the sun.
Last update on 2024-09-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links.