What You Need to Know About Snow Blowers
Introduction
Winter is upon us and for many of us, that means dealing with snow. While shoveling by hand may be an option for smaller driveways or sidewalks, for larger areas a snow blower can be a real lifesaver. But with so many different options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs? In this article, we'll provide some tips to help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing a snow blower.
Factors to Consider
Before we get into specific recommendations, there are a few key factors to consider when choosing a snow blower. The first thing to think about is the size of the area you'll be clearing. If you only have a small driveway or sidewalk, a single-stage snow blower may be sufficient. These models use an auger to scoop up snow and throw it out of the machine, and are typically lighter and easier to maneuver than larger, two-stage models.
Two-stage snow blowers, on the other hand, are better suited for larger areas. These machines use both an auger and a fan to clear snow, which allows them to tackle deeper drifts and throw the snow farther. They are generally more powerful and efficient than single-stage models, but they can also be more expensive and difficult to maneuver.
Another important factor to consider is the type of snow you'll be dealing with. If you live in an area with heavy, wet snow, you'll want a snow blower with a high-powered engine and a large intake to handle the increased load. On the other hand, if you only have to deal with light, powdery snow, a smaller, less powerful machine may be sufficient.
Features to Look For
Once you've determined the size and type of snow blower you need, there are a few key features to look for when shopping for a machine. One of the most important features is the size of the intake, which determines how much snow the machine can pick up at once. A larger intake will allow the snow blower to clear more snow in a single pass, making the job go faster.
Another important feature to look for is the power of the engine. Larger, two-stage snow blowers will typically have more powerful engines than smaller, single-stage models. This is important for tackling deep drifts and heavy, wet snow.
In addition to the engine, you'll also want to consider the size of the tires on the snow blower. Larger, wider tires will provide better traction and stability on slippery surfaces, making the machine easier to maneuver. Some models also have adjustable or reversible skid shoes, which can help prevent the auger from digging into the ground or scratching surfaces like pavement.
Conclusion
Choosing the right snow blower can be a daunting task, but by considering the size and type of snow you'll be dealing with, as well as the features that are important to you, you can find a machine that will make winter snow removal a breeze. With the right snow blower, you'll be able to clear your driveway and sidewalks quickly and easily, so you can get back to enjoying the winter season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What size of snowblower do I need?
The size of snowblower you need depends on the amount and type of snow you need to clear. For heavy, wet snow and longer driveways, a two-stage snowblower with a clearing width between 24 and 28 inches and an intake height around 20 inches is recommended.
2. Which is better gas or battery snow blower?
Gas snow blowers are better for larger jobs and longer driveways due to their unlimited runtime. They have the advantage of a larger gas tank, allowing them to handle bigger tasks. On the other hand, battery snow blowers are more convenient and have fewer limitations, making them suitable for smaller areas and lighter snowfall.
3. How many cc is a good snow blower?
A good snow blower should have an engine of at least 400 CCs, especially for professional use. However, the clearing width of the snow blower should also be considered, as the biggest option may not always be the best choice for clearing narrow walkways or diverse areas.
4. What is the easiest snow blower to use?
Single-stage snow blowers are the easiest to handle and are best for clearing mid-size areas with snowfall of 12 inches or less. They are lightweight and can handle both light and wet snow. These snow blowers use an auger to direct the snow through a discharge chute, throwing it up to 35 feet.
5. How long do battery powered snow blowers last?
The battery runtime of snow blowers varies depending on the type of snow being cleared. Most battery-powered snow blowers have a runtime of about 30 to 45 minutes. However, this can be affected by the snow's weight and density, with heavier and wetter snow reducing the battery's lifespan.
