Tips to buy snow blowers
Winter can be a wonderful time, with snowflakes falling and making everything look magical. But as beautiful as it may be, snow can also be a headache when it comes to clearing it from your driveway or sidewalks. This is where snow blowers come in handy. In this article, we discuss practical tips to buy snow blowers.
Types of snow blowers
As winter approaches, it is essential to be prepared for the snow and ice that come along with it. One of the most useful tools for clearing your driveway, sidewalks, and walkways is a snow blower. There are various types of snow blowers available in the market, each with its unique features and capabilities. In this article, we will look at the different types of snow blowers and help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Electric Snow Blowers
Electric snow blowers are an excellent option for those who want a clean, easy-to-maintain snow clearing solution. They are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for small areas with light to moderate snowfall. Electric snow blowers are corded, and you need to plug them into a power outlet, limiting your mobility. They are eco-friendly, making them an excellent choice for environmentally conscious individuals.
Cordless Snow Blowers
Cordless snow blowers operate on batteries, and they offer excellent mobility and flexibility. They are an excellent choice to buy snow blowers, for clearing snow from small to medium-sized areas with light to moderate snowfall. Cordless snow blowers are compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for clearing steps, patios, and decks.
Gas-Powered Snow Blowers
Gas-powered snow blowers are the most powerful and efficient snow blowers available. They can easily clear large areas with heavy snowfall, making them ideal for commercial properties and large residential areas. Gas-powered snow blowers come with various engine sizes and can operate on either gasoline or propane. They require more maintenance and produce fumes, making them not as eco-friendly as electric or cordless snow blowers.
Single-Stage Snow Blowers
Single-stage snow blowers are compact, lightweight, and perfect for small to medium-sized areas with light to moderate snowfall. They have an auger that scoops up the snow and throws it out of the chute. Single-stage snow blowers are ideal for clearing your driveway, walkway, or patio.
Two-Stage Snow Blowers
Two-stage snow blowers are powerful machines that can handle heavy snowfall and large areas. They come with an auger that scoops up the snow and a second impeller that throws the snow out of the chute. Two-stage snow blowers are excellent for clearing large driveways, sidewalks, and commercial properties.
Three-Stage Snow Blowers
Three-stage snow blowers are the most powerful snow blowers available, designed to tackle the heaviest snowfalls and the most challenging conditions. They come with an accelerator that breaks up ice and snow, an auger that scoops up the snow, and an impeller that throws the snow out of the chute. Three-stage snow blowers are ideal for commercial properties and large residential areas with heavy snowfall.
Others
Besides the above types, there are other snow blower models available that offer unique features. For example, track snow blowers are heavy-duty machines that come with tracks instead of wheels, making them ideal for steep inclines and rough terrain. Hybrid snow blowers are a combination of electric and gas-powered snow blowers, offering the best of both worlds.
When it comes to choosing the right snow blower, it all depends on your specific needs. If you have a small driveway, a single-stage or electric snow blower may be all you need. For larger areas with heavy snowfall, a two-stage or gas-powered snow blower would be a better option. If you want mobility and flexibility, cordless snow blowers are an excellent choice.
Comparison of the different types of snow blowers
| Criteria | Electric Snow Blowers | Cordless Snow Blowers | Gas-Powered Snow Blowers | Single-Stage Snow Blowers | Two-Stage Snow Blowers | Three-Stage Snow Blowers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power source | Electric cord | Battery | Gasoline | Gasoline | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Motor power | 9-15 amps | 40-80 volts | 4-15 horsepower | 5-7 horsepower | 7-10 horsepower | 12-16 horsepower |
| Clearing width | 12-21 inches | 12-24 inches | 18-45 inches | 18-22 inches | 24-30 inches | 30-36 inches |
| Clearing depth | 6-12 inches | 6-12 inches | 12-23 inches | 6-9 inches | 16-21 inches | 16-23 inches |
| Throw distance | 20-30 feet | 20-40 feet | 20-50 feet | 20-30 feet | 30-50 feet | 40-60 feet |
| Price range | $100-$500 | $200-$700 | $400-$2000 | $300-$600 | $700-$2000 | $1500-$3000 |
| Maintenance | Low | Low | Moderate to high | Low | Moderate to high | High |
| Maneuverability | Good | Good | Average to good | Good | Average to good | Average to good |
| Ideal for | Small driveways | Small driveways | Large driveways | Small driveways | Large driveways | Large driveways |
| Environmentally friendly | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Noise level | Low | Low | High | Moderate | High | High |
| Weight | 15-50 pounds | 20-100 pounds | 50-300 pounds | 60-100 pounds | 150-300 pounds | 250-400 pounds |
Each type of snow blower has its own advantages and disadvantages. Electric and cordless snow blowers are quieter, environmentally friendly, and require low maintenance, but they are not suitable for heavy-duty snow removal. Gas-powered snow blowers are more powerful, but they emit pollutants and require more maintenance. Single-stage snow blowers are ideal for light snow removal on small driveways, while two-stage and three-stage snow blowers are better for large driveways and heavy snowfalls. The choice ultimately depends on the user’s needs and preferences.
Tips to buy snow blowers
Winter can be a wonderful time, with snowflakes falling and making everything look magical. But as beautiful as it may be, snow can also be a headache when it comes to clearing it from your driveway or sidewalks. This is where snow blowers come in handy. They can help you remove snow quickly and efficiently, but choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for buying snow blowers:
Determine your needs
Before making a purchase, determine the size of the area you need to clear, the type of snow you usually get, and how frequently you will be using the snow blower. This information will help you determine the best type of snow blower for your needs.
Electric or Gas-powered
Electric snow blowers are lightweight, quiet, and require minimal maintenance. They are best suited for light snowfalls and smaller areas. Gas-powered snow blowers, on the other hand, are more powerful and are suitable for larger areas and heavy snowfalls.
Single-stage or Two-stage
Single-stage snow blowers are best for light to moderate snowfalls, while two-stage snow blowers are better suited for heavy snowfalls and larger areas. Two-stage snow blowers have an auger that breaks up the snow and a fan that throws it out of the chute, while single-stage snow blowers use an auger to both break up and throw the snow.
Auger Size
The size of the auger will determine the snow blower’s capacity. Larger augers can handle more snow, but they also require more power.
Clearing Width
The clearing width of a snow blower determines the width of the path it can clear with each pass. Larger clearing widths will make the job quicker, but they also mean a larger and heavier machine.
Chute Control
The chute control determines the direction and distance the snow is thrown. Some snow blowers have a manual control, while others have a joystick or electric control.
Wheels or Tracks
Snow blowers with wheels are more maneuverable and easier to handle, but they struggle on rough terrain. Snow blowers with tracks provide better traction on slippery surfaces and can handle rough terrain better, but they are more difficult to maneuver.
Brand and Warranty
Choose a reputable brand with good customer support and warranty. This will ensure that you have access to parts and service if needed.
By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and find the best snow blower for your needs. Remember to read reviews and compare prices to make an informed decision. In summary, when buying a snow blower, consider the size of the area you need to clear, the type of snow you usually get, and how frequently you will be using it. Electric snow blowers are best for smaller areas and lighter snowfalls, while gas-powered snow blowers are better for larger areas and heavy snowfalls. Single-stage snow blowers are best for light to moderate snowfalls, while two-stage snow blowers are better suited for heavy snowfalls and larger areas. Consider the size of the auger, clearing width, chute control, and wheels or tracks when making a decision. Choose a reputable brand with a good warranty and customer support.
FAQs – Tips to buy snow blowers
What is the best snow blower for a small driveway?
For small driveways, single-stage snow blowers are the most suitable. They are lightweight, easy to handle and can clear light to moderate snow quickly. Consider buying an electric or cordless single-stage snow blower for noise-free and eco-friendly operation.
Should I buy a two-stage or three-stage snow blower?
It depends on the amount of snowfall in your area. If you receive heavy snowfall with high accumulation, a two-stage or three-stage snow blower would be more effective. However, if you experience light to moderate snow, a single-stage snow blower can suffice.
What type of engine is best for a snow blower?
Gas-powered engines are the most common and powerful engines used in snow blowers. They can clear heavy snow and are suitable for large areas. However, if you prefer an eco-friendly option, electric and cordless snow blowers are also available in the market.
Are electric snow blowers powerful enough?
Electric snow blowers are ideal for light to moderate snow and are powerful enough to clear small to medium-sized driveways and walkways. However, if you have a large area to clear or experience heavy snowfall, gas-powered snow blowers would be more effective.
How important is the width of the snow blower?
The width of the snow blower determines the amount of snow it can clear in one pass. A wider clearing width is more suitable for larger driveways and walkways. However, a wider snow blower may be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
What should I consider before buying a snow blower?
You should consider factors such as the size of your driveway, the amount of snowfall in your area, the type of terrain, and your budget. Other factors to consider include the type of engine, the clearing width, and the chute control.
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