In winters, nothing can be worse than moving 12 inches of heavy snow with a shovel. It will not only frustrate you but also lead to blisters in your hands and ache in your back. Humans are not made to clear snow. That’s why snow blowers are designed to lift heavy snow and make your job easier and even a little fun, too. Besides, this is a faster and safer alternative to a shovel that risks serious injury.
However, people often have to face a battle of wits while choosing a thrower as a plethora of machines are already out there in the market. This guide is created to help you facilitate your hunt for the best snow blower depending on the size of your property, average snow accumulation, and the surface you need to clear. So let’s dive in!
Which Type of Snow Blower is Ideal For You?
Single-Stage Electric Snow Blowers
These blowers have the potential to clear snow levels of less than 12 inches from decks, sideways, and walkways. These small and lightweight machines are quiet and easiest to use. Since these are electric-powered throwers, they eliminate the need for changing fuel and engine oil. All you need is an extension cord and an outlet to start this blower and clear your path in a couple of seconds.
>Single-Stage Battery-Powered Snow BlowersBattery-powered throwers are getting better with each passing year. These devices operate similar to electric snow blowers but clear 9 inches of snow while proving maximum portability because they are cordless. Besides, some manufactures have engineered interchangeable batteries that can also be used for powering a chainsaw or leaf blower.
Single-Stage Gas-Powered Snow Blowers
These snow blowers are ideal for handling 18 to 22 inches of snow in a single swath from midsized driveways or walkways. They are light in weight, easy to maneuver, and have a storage capacity similar to a lawnmower. It is recommended to use only gasoline without oil to maximize the performance of these snow throwers. However, they are not suitable for removing snow on steep slopes and driveways with pebbles and gravel.
Two-Stage Gas-Powered Snow Blowers
These powerful snow blowers are capable of clearing snow levels up to 23.5 inches from wide driveways with steep inclines. They can also remove snow on gravel easily as their auger is specifically manufactured to avoid touching the ground. Moreover, they feature an impeller to accelerate the snow throwing process out of the chute. They are also reinforced with engine drive wheels and are heavier and more expensive than the smaller models. On top of that, these throwers have a storage capacity similar to a lawn tractor, thanks to their bulkiness.
Three-Stage Gas-Powered Snow Blowers
They are advanced-level snow blowers engineered to cope with a snow level of 23.5 inches or deeper. These throwers are integrated with an accelerator, auger, and impeller. The accelerator expedites the snow removal process by collecting snow from the serrated augers and throwing it into the discharge impeller. Since they can easily remove thicker and heavier snow, they tend to be a bit pricier as well as heavier. Besides, they contain more storage capacity as compared to other gas-powered models.
What Should You Consider Before Purchasing a Snow Blower?
Motor Power
Motor power refers to the capacity of a snow thrower. Different types of blowers have different motor power, and it is determined according to the power source.
- Electric snow blowers have a motor power of 10A or 15A
- Battery-powered snow blowers have a motor power of 40V or 60V
- Gas-powered snow blowers have a motor power of 100cc or 300cc
The more the power, the better the performance. So, choose wisely!
Clearing Width
Clearing width refers to the width of snow that can be removed in a single swath. Akin to motor power, different snow blowers have different clearing widths.
- A single-stage electric blower can clear a snow level of 15-22 inches.
- A single-stage battery-powered blower can also clear a snow level of 15-22 inches.
- A single-stage gas-powered blower can clear a snow level of 18-22inches.
- A two-stage gas-powered blower can clear a snow level of 20-28 inches.
- A two-stage gas-powered blower can clear a snow level of 24-30 inches.
The wider the snow level, the faster the snow removal process. So, choose the snow clearing width based on the width of your sideway or driveway.
Cutting Depth
As the name implies, cutting depth is the height of snow that can be cleared in one swath. While the cutting depth of single-stage electric and battery-powered blowers ranges from 7-12 inches, single-stage gas-powered models offer 18 inches of cutting depth. However, two-stage and three-stage gas-powered snow blowers feature a cutting depth of up to 23 inches. Pick a variant with more cutting depth if you encounter heavy snowfall every year.
Capacity
Capacity is defined as the amount of snow a thrower can clear in a minute. Mostly, snow blowers come with a capacity of 700-800 lbs/minute.
Blades
Some snow throwers feature four blades, while others are reinforced with five blades. Besides deciding on the number of blades, also take their construction material into account. Usually, blades made of steel are deemed to be highly reliable and durable.
Gears
Few snow blowers offer a constant speed option. However, advanced models are integrated six forward and two reverse gears to help you quickly clear the troublesome.
Final Words
A snow blower or thrower can be an excellent investment that will save your time, efforts, and back. However, choosing the perfect one is not a child’s play. Taking the above factors and types into account can help you get your hands on the best snow blower that will suit your needs.
Snow Blower FAQ
Q: Which snow blower type is ideal for a driveway with gravel?
A: As the auger of a two-stage snow blower is designed not to touch the ground, this model is ideal for removing snow from a driveway with gravel. Besides, this blower features a bigger bucket to clear snowdrifts and pile-ups on the end of the driveways.
Q: What is the benefit of reverse gear in a snow blower?
A: The reverse gear allows you to move the blower backward to again clear the same area. While some machines have a single reverse gear, others offer dual reverse gears for better performance.
Q: How can I store a gas-powered snow blower during the offseason?
A: To keep the condition of your snow blower intact, make sure to drain the gasoline out from its tank. Failing to do so can lead to gunk buildup that can damage your machine.