With companies big and small across the US looking to take your hard-earned cash for snow removal, some are charging upwards of $150 to clear a single-car driveway, just the once!
In higher snowfall regions this can end up costing you thousands of dollars per year – just for removing some snow and getting to work! It’s crazy.
But it DOESN’T have to be this way.
There is a much cheaper, faster, and better way of dealing with the problem, and it’ll also save you a buck load of money in the long run.
I’ve run some quick numbers to help demonstrate how this is possible:
When you own your own snowblower, you can enjoy the luxury of not having to wait for your local snow removal company to fit you into their already maxed-out schedule, and then take your money.
You don’t have to be late getting your loved ones to work.
You don’t have to worry about the kids being late for school.
And in fact, you don’t even have to break a sweat…
Plus (and this one is a biggie), you get more time in your lovely warm cozy bed, without a single worry of shoveling over a foot of snow in the freezing cold dark.
Welcome to Snow Blower Guides, I’m James Reeves, and I have been professionally servicing & repairing snowblowers for over 7 years.
Here you’ll join me as I offer up snowblower comparisons, running guides, maintenance guides, industry tips, tricks & more, in my mission to find the best snow blowers each and every year.
With the right guidance, anyone can own, run and maintain their very own snowblower.
So my aim is to allow you to finally stop throwing money (literally) down the drain on snow removal services, be the envy of your neighbors, as well as have a chunk of extra cash at the time of year you likely need it most.
From the best electric snow shovels to commercial snow blowers, and everything snow-related. If you don’t have much experience with snow blowers, I help you out along the way, but there’s also a full buyers guide at the bottom of the article.
If you’re new to the industry and are sitting there wondering what size snowblower do I need, you’re in luck – here’s my quick cheat sheet (but I also recommend which snow blowers are good for what on each product listed below).
So, here’s what you came for, my best snow blower reviews for 2021/22 winter.
Although I have tried to include every size and budget, along with all types of machines, if you still can’t find the right snow blower for you, then give my main menu a try under Buyer Guides.
Go have some fun and click things, no research is wasted time when it comes to spending your hard-earned bucks.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
Best Snow Blowers 2021: Voted By Customers
Here are my 7 best snow blower reviews for the 2021 & 2022 winter, as voted by customers and sorted by me.
My #1 Pick: Husqvarna ST224 Two Stage Snow Blower
First up, I bring you the Husqvarna ST224 designed for homeowners with above-average snow clearing needs. Read my summary below or click here to read my full review of the Husqvarna ST224.
The little brother to the larger Husqvarna ST230P gas-powered snow blower. This two-stage ST224P featured in my Husqvarna snow blower reviews has been a bestseller on Amazon for over two years. And, is still currently one of the best-rated semi-professional snow blowers available.
Why Choose It
- Wide 24-inch clearing width
- Clears snow up to 18 inches deep (23 inch high scoop)
- 6-Speed self-propelled for easy maneuvering
- Can clear an 8-10 car driveway in under 20 mins
- Throws snow up to 35 feet
- Electric start (no fighting pull cords!)
Shortfalls & Limitations
- Reverse speed is quite slow
- Auger & speed controls may be opposite sides for experienced users on older machines
- Heated handles are pretty useless
As a two stage snow blower, you benefit from the gas driven heavy-duty ribbon auger. This churns and gathers up the snow, passing it onto the impeller, this then throws the snow up to 35 feet away. The discharge chute featured on this model can quickly and easily be adjusted via simple controls on the handle.
The auger blades have a great working width of 24 inches and can remove snow of between 6-18 inches deep. However, that will depend on the type of snow you have, wet, hard snow is much more difficult to clear. Whereas, deeper snow which is the fresh fluffy white stuff will be a breeze.
Powered by a Husqvarna engine, this model is self-propelled (via a 6 forward speed gearbox) and features power steering. Making this machine so much easier to use, especially for those that may struggle with mobility.
As gas snow blowers go, this is an efficient two-stage system that delivers plenty of throwing distance. Featuring a friction-disc transmission, giving the smooth operation, LED headlights, an electric starter. With adjustable handle height settings and heated handle grips (that aren’t very good to be honest), this all makes your life just that little bit easier.
** Act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
With all that said, as with all machines, if you dig a little deeper into the customer reviews it’s not all plain sailing. Whilst there doesn’t seem to be a ‘common’ trend within the 1-2-3 star reviews, they do exist.
Ranging from engine reliability (a problem with many gas engines in cold weather) to cheap ‘plastic’ controls and belts slipping off, alongside the heated handles being completely pointless.
However, you’ll be pleased to know that the positive reviews far outweigh any negative ones. Therefore, I’m quite happy to be recommending this as my #1 Best Overall pick for this year’s winter season.
Best Overall Brand: Ariens ST24LE Deluxe Two Stage Snow Blower
Not all snow blowers are built the same, trust me I know. This is certainly true for the Ariens ST24LE Deluxe 24 inch snow blower.
This two stage gas snow blower is a heavy-duty machine. Just as reliable for heavy snow loads as it is for your average snow load. The Ariens Deluxe is known to be one of, if not the, best snow blowers on the market. Definitely worth every cent of anyone’s investment.
Featuring a powerful 254cc engine, with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, you could want for no more. Now add the fact that it also features a freeze-resistant 12-inch, 3-blade high-speed impeller that throws snow fast and far (up to 50 ft in fact!).
Wait there’s more, it has the ease of an electric start and interlocking handles that allow for one-handed use.
Why Choose It
- Powerful 254cc gas engine
- Throws snow up to 50ft away
- One button push start
- Recommended for clearing snow up to 18 inch deep
- 6 Forward and 2 reverse speeds
Shortfalls & Limitations
- Not the cheapest 2-stage in this category
- Auto-steer takes a while to get used to
- Handles may be a bit high for some
- Gas tank could be bigger for more run time
The serrated steel augers efficiently plow through packed snow and ice pushing it into the powerful impeller. While the Polar Trac tires give traction for slippery conditions, the pin-lock axle provides maneuverability when unlocked but maximum traction when locked.
** Act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Seriously consider this model from Ariens if you’re looking to invest in an affordable heavy-duty machine. With reviews such as ‘Is it possible to fall in love with a snow blower?’ you know you’ve found something special.
From the reviews on Amazon, 90% of buyers rated this model with 4 or 5 stars, which is an exceptionally high rating for any machine of this size and complexity.
Best 2-Stage Cordless: EGO Power+ SNT2400 Battery Powered Snow Blower
Rarely do you find two stage models that are battery-powered units, so if you don’t like using gas models finding the right snow blower for you can be tricky. Now don’t get me wrong, any gas-powered snow blower deserves its place in the market. However, gas snow blowers are noisy, give off fumes, and need regular maintenance.
With this fantastic machine, you can go greener and be quieter without losing any of the power gas snow blowers offer.
I have to admit, it does come with quite a price tag, and you are restricted to run time, but when you see all the features and feel the quality you will understand why the cordless two-stage snow blower is worth it.
Why Choose It
- Lithium-Ion battery powered
- Extremely quiet compared to gas
- One button push start
- Clears snow up to 20 inch deep (& 24 inches wide)
- Throws snow up to 50 feet away
- Up to 40 minute run time
Shortfalls & Limitations
- Battery life is reduced with heavy snow
- You need to buy batteries separately
- Lighter than gas models, which reduces clearing ability
- More expensive than some gas models
With a clearing width of 24 inches, this 2 stage snow blower is great for large driveways and sidewalks. What’s more, this snow blower can handle snow up to 20 inches deep and can send discharged snow through the directional chute to up to 50 feet away.
Using large machines can be hard work, don’t worry they have thought of that too, the EGO Power is self-propelled and features variable speed control both forwards and reverse for ease of use. In addition to that, you also have a variable speed auger control for heavier and deeper snow areas.
Constructed using weather-resistant heavy-duty steel and composite materials you can be assured that you will have longevity, durability, and high quality that will stand up in all conditions. If that’s not enough there is the added bonus that this snow blower comes ready fitted out with 4 bright LED headlights. Never struggle in the dark again.
Update: Read my full EGO SNT2400 cordless snow blower review here.
** Act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Alternatively, you can sometimes find stock on Walmart.com.
Note: I want to point out that the charger and batteries are not included in the standard price. This isn’t to make more money out of you, but because all batteries are fully interchangeable throughout all EGO product range you may already own them.
From their lawnmowers to the leaf blower etc, one set of batteries fits all, saving money for those of you who have already got EGO products.
Gas Powered 2-Stage Under $700: PowerSmart 24 Inch Two Stage Gas Snow Blower
Whilst it’s important to get a machine big enough to deal with the conditions you have. I realize not everybody can afford top-of-the-range two-stage gas-powered snow blowers such as the Husquavana range.
So, let me introduce you to the PowerSmart PSSAM24 two-stage snow blower. Although they may not be as well known as the Husquvanas’ at the moment, I am sure it won’t be too long before they are. This gas two-stage model is an affordable, yet very efficient and powerful, two-stage snow blower perfect for all your snow removal tasks.
Ok, so it doesn’t feature heated handgrips or built-in headlights but when it comes to being on a budget they really are unnecessary extras. Don’t worry, you can rest assured you still get all of the features that matter with this machine.
Why Choose It
- 6 Forward & 2 reverse speeds (unlike the Husqvarna above)
- Clears snow up to 20 inches deep
- Electric start & a recoil pull cord
- Can clear an 8-10 car driveway in under 20 mins
- Throws snow up to 40 feet away
Shortfalls & Limitations
- The fastest forward speed is slow for some
- Transmission linkage could be improved
- Can be awkward to maneuver
- Driveshaft belt is prone to slipping off
If you are new to snow blowers it is important to understand how snow blowers work and what the different snow blower features are. Remember, the best snow blowers are not always the biggest and most expensive, they are the ones that suit your weather conditions as well as your budget.
This particular two-stage snow blower uses a powerful PowerSmart 212cc 4-cycle OHV (Overhead Valve) engine to power steel augers. It can work its way through snow up to 20 inches deep and has a clearing width of 24 inches.
Unlike single-stage snow blowers, two-stage gas models are also capable of clearing wet, heavy snow and deep snow.
Once the steel auger has done its work in chopping and gathering the white stuff up it is passed onto the impeller which then discharges through the 180 degree directional chute. And, this PowerSmart machine can throw it up to a distance of 40 feet, although that will vary depending on the type of snow being cleared.
When clearing deep snow you need to slow down, whereas with light and fluffy snow you can get a pace going. This is where the speed control on this machine comes in.
Not only is it self-propelled, but it has a versatile speed control system that is comprised of 6 forward and two reverse speeds (although some users complained that even the fastest speed wasn’t quite fast enough for them).
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
This two-stage snow blower also features an electric start as well as the recoil pull cord start, giving you alternatives if you’re struggling to get it started in the morning. It has large 13-inch wheels with great snow tread and eight movement variations for added grip and maneuverability.
Best Track Driven: Ariens Platinum SHO 28 Inch 2-Stage Snow Blower
For steep inclines or through deep and heavy snow, you need a machine with some serious power and traction. Although some people like to use three-stage snow blowers, it’s rarely essential.
The Ariens Platinum SHO track-driven two-stage snow blower delivers all of that and more thanks to its powerful gas-powered engine. Let’s look a bit closer.
Key Features To Note
- 28 Inch clearing width
- Self-propelled track driven drive
- Powerful 369cc gas-powered engine
- Track mode, wheel mode & dig-in mode
- Hydrostatic transmission
Capable of clearing snow to 28 inches wide and up to around 18 inches deep, it features a 4 cycle, 369cc engine, with electronic fuel injection (EFI). This helps the machine run smoother, is more reliable and you don’t have to worry about choke levels.
One of the most notable features of these two-stage models are the tracks, and they’re not just there to look good. They’re absolutely essential for commercial snow blowers, or for clearing steep or uneven areas such as gravel driveways or grassy areas.
Just take a look at some of the benefits of track snow blowers vs wheel snow blowers here.
In addition to that, we have the adjustable auger height, essential when working on uneven terrain. As with most Ariens snow blowers, this model uses their iconic ribbon-designed auger, made from toughened steel.
Tip: Due to Covid-19 manufacturing issues, snow blower stock is expected to be VERY limited this season.
** Act now! - If you wait for it to snow, you'll be too late! **
Featuring LED headlights, heated handgrips, single-handed control, and a remote chute deflector with swivels up to 200 degrees. All of these little features turn this beast from a regular snow blower, into something that will be the envy of the neighbors.
It’s a complete workhorse with an excellent reputation across the US.
Gas Single-Stage: Briggs & Stratton 22 Inch Single Stage Snow Blower
This wonderful electric snow blower is a single-stage model and is brought to you by Briggs & Stratton, and trust me you won’t have to do a lot of research before their name pops up. With over 110 years in the industry, they are widely known for their high performance and quality outdoor machinery and engines.
When it comes to choosing a single stage snow blower you probably can’t beat a Briggs and Stratton. Sail through your snow removal tasks with this brilliant machine.
Why Choose It
- 22 Inch wide clearing width, 12.5 Inch intake height
- Extended 3 year limited warranty
- Electric pushbutton starter
- Perfect for mid-sized homes
- Throws snow up to 30 feet away
- Easy to maneuver
Shortfalls & Limitations
- Manual could be much clearer
- Struggles with compact, wet snow (as do most 1-stage blowers)
- Rubber auger blades will wear out
With a 22 inch clearing width this snow blower can plough through up to 12 inches of snow although that is pushing it to the limit. Admittedly it’s not a lightweight machine as it weighs in at 92 pounds, but when dealing with snow that can be a bonus.
Being a single-stage snow blower it does scrape down to the ground sadly as is usual with this size machine you cannot use on gravel. However, the thermal plastic urethane paddles are protected with rubber tips saving on wear and tear and making them ideal for use on wooden decking.
This machine is perfect for low to moderate snowfalls on small to medium-sized areas, such as a 2 car driveway. Although this blower is good for light snow as long as it is not too deep it will actually deal with heavier snow.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
The discharge chute is directional and depending on conditions the blower will throw snow to around 30 feet. Overall this machine is easy to use, dependable and is an investment that will last you for years to come.
Best Electric: Snow Joe SJ625E Electric Snow Thrower
Compared to the Husqvarna two-stage gas snow blower above, this electric Snow Joe is a smaller single-stage snow blower. Single-stage models do not have an impeller, using just the auger to both gather and throw the snow.
However, having fewer capabilities than its gas-powered counterparts is the best part of the design. Making it much easier to use and giving great you greater maneuverability. This machine is perfect for those of you who only get light to medium snowfalls. It was also featured #1 in my best small snowblower round-up.
When dealing with light snow, the electric motor is capable of clearing between 8″-12″ in a single pass. For light to medium weight snow expect around 5″-8″ depth, and for wet heavy snow, you’ll be looking at less than 5 inches.
Key Features To Note
- Electric single stage snow thrower
- Corded (no batteries to charge, but you will need an outdoor-rated extension cord)
- 21-inch clearing width
- Throws snow up to 6-8 feet
- Can clear up to around 12 inches of light snow
With that said, with some of the best electric snow blowers like this you can still move up to 800 lbs of snow per minute. That’s all thanks to the powerful 15 amp motor, but don’t expect it to be thrown 35 feet away though, expect more like 6-8 feet!
Another perk of corded electric models, when compared to gas-powered models, is the fact they are almost maintenance-free. No starting issues, no gas or oil is required, and best of all you have no bad emissions to breathe in.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
In fact, the most you’ll likely need to do is lubricate the chute regularly to keep your throwing distance up, and to dry the machine after each use.
From over 3000 customer reviews on Amazon, over 81% of buyers rated this model with a 4 or 5-star review. Making this my absolute favorite single-stage electric model.
Best Single Stage Cordless: EGO Power+ SNT2102 Snow Thrower
Over the years, even the best cordless electric snow blowers have divided the snow-blowing community. From complaints about their ability, longevity, and overall usefulness for the cost involved.
Thankfully, lithium-ion battery technology improves with every year that passes. Giving these machines a fighting chance in the domestic snow-blower market.
Coming in at just over $500. The EGO Power+ is one of those fighting for your hard-earned cash and winning. They actually now make up a large percentage of sales each winter.
Key Features To Note
- 21 Inch clearing width
- Throws snow up to 30ft
- Clears up to 10 car driveways on a single charge
- 56 Volt Arc lithium batteries
- Clears up to 12 inches of snow
With the 21-inch clearing width and throwing distance of 30 feet, this is an ideal easy-to-store, cordless snow thrower. But, if you get deeper snow on a regular basis, I would advise you stick to gas-powered models.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
If you already own an Ego Power cordless mower or leaf blower you are part of the EGO ecosystem. Meaning you’ll be able to use these powerful, patented batteries in over 50 of their other power tools. Which not only saves you money but also solves the problem of having a range of chargers laying around.
This Ego Power single stage snow blower receives rave reviews online and is likely the bestseller in the cordless market.
Best Power Shovel: Snow Joe SS11-XR 11″ Power Shovel
Electric power shovels are perfect if you receive very little snowfall each year. They’re cheap, easy to store and anyone can use them, young and old alike. Simply turn the device on and you’ll be shifting snow in no time.
Although they are single-stage snow blowers, they are designed specifically for the fast and efficient clearing of light snow only.
Key Features To Note
- 11 inch clearing width
- Clears up to 8 inches of light/medium snow
- Approx. 30 minute run-time per charge
- Extremely lightweight (just 12lbs)
- 2 Blade high impact auger
- Ideal for those that can’t bend to shovel
This Snow Joe SS11 model is one of the most popular and it’s easy to see why. For around $155 you get an 11 inch, rechargeable electric snow shovel.
It can shovel its way through up to a maximum of 6 inches for light snow, but less if the going is tough. Throwing light powdery snow about 20 feet but, only about 8 feet if you have heavier wet snow.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
As with all electric shovels, it’s worth noting that you do not have a discharge chute featured on other single-stage snow blowers. Therefore, the high-speed spinning auger only throws the snow to the front of you.
On a single charge, you can expect up to around 30 minutes run time. This should be enough to clear a small driveway, patio area, or walkways. These little machines are fantastic at doing the job they were designed for. But, please ensure that this does fit your needs.
Over 80% of buyers have given this model a 4 or 5-star review. If you’re on a budget or don’t have huge snow removal requirements then it’s definitely worth a look before spending $500+ on a bigger snow blower.
On A Budget: Snow Joe SJ615E 15″ Electric Snow Thrower
Meet the bigger sister of the little snow shovel above from Snow Joe. What you see is what you get with this extremely affordable corded electric snow blower .
Featuring the benefit of not only a slightly wider clearing width of 15 inches but also a discharge chute that can be adjusted 180°. Giving you advanced control on where the machine throws the snow when compared to the electric shovel.
Key Features To Note
- 15 Inch clearing width
- Electric corded model
- No maintenance
- Throws snow up to 20 feet
- Easy to store through summer
This small electric snow blower can handle up to around 8 inches of snow. It can throw up to about 20 feet, but I repeat, both of these facts vary depending on the type of snow. Making it ideal for medium-sized driveways and walkways. But, remember you are tethered and please always use a cold-weather outdoor extension cord.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
For under $150, you get a tool that will easily clear light to medium levels of snow and do the job well. A model that people are very happy with. Those that didn’t like it seem to have bought the machine without properly considering their needs and snow conditions.
If you are new to an area I recommend that you do your research on local snowfall amounts. Never buy on looks or budget alone, but on the worst snowfalls your area receives. Make sure you don’t get caught short with an underpowered machine.
Snow Blower Buying Guide: What To Look For
In the quest to make snowstorms as painless as possible, engineers from around the world have worked to give us the best. From the big three-stage snow blowers, to the handy cordless power shovels, there is something for everyone.
Which one is best for you, especially when it comes to single stage snow blowers vs 2-stage, which mainly depends on how much snowfall you get along with the size of area you need to clear. But regardless of what you end up with, ensuring you have just a decent snow shovel on hand is part of my essential ‘How to prepare your home for winter’ guide.
Buy the best snow blower for the money on the market for your own needs, not just the one people recommend the most.
Every state has different yearly snow accumulations and if you don’t buy the right model to fit yours, you’re not going to be happy with any purchase.
Snow Throwers Vs. Snow Blowers Vs. Power Shovels
You’ll often hear these terms used interchangeably and whilst they are all very similar, there are some key differences between the types of snow blowers that you should become familiar with.
What Is A Snow Thrower?
A snow thrower is a simple, single-stage snow clearing machine that uses a spinning auger to ‘throw’ snow at the same time it clears it. Typically, snow throwers are budget electric models (compared to gas powered snow blowers) and have a plastic auger.
If it makes it easier, think of snow throwers as single stage electric snow blowers.
What Is A Snow Blower?
The term snow blower is generally used when it’s either a two-stage or three-stage gas-powered machine. Unlike a single-stage snow thrower, a snow blower uses a metal auger to cut through snow and then feeds it into an impeller which then ‘blows’ it out through the discharge chute.
Snow blowers usually work with gas rather than electric. Typically much bigger, more robust machines compared to snow throwers and cost upwards of $350.
What Is An Electric Power Shovel?
An electric power shovel is a simple machine that is similar in appearance to a regular snow shovel, but has an electric spinning auger on the end to ‘throw’ snow away. This makes clearing snow much easier than manually lifting and moving it.
Power shovels are limited in their capabilities however and are only recommended for clearing up to 6 inches or a light dusting.
How To Buy A Good Snow Blower: Buying Guide
Here are a few pointers as to what you need to look for when buying one of these very useful and impressive machines.
Check Your Average Snow Fall In Your Area!
Before even beginning to look for a snow blower, snow thrower, or power shovel. By far the most important consideration you should make is your type and amount of snow.
Knowing your average snowfall will ensure you buy a machine that is suitable for your area. Therefore, meaning you won’t over or underbuy on performance. Whenever I review a product, I always do my best to mention the amount of snow a particular model can clear.
As a rule of thumb, between 6-8 inches a single-stage snow thrower should suffice. Although it does depend on the type of snow. While areas that receive heavy snowfall and regularly get over 10 inches ideally need a more powerful snow blower. Two stage gas snow blowers being the best option here.
Clearing Size & Clearing Depth
The clearing width of the machine is also important. Ideally, you want one that can clear your required areas or driveway quickly and easily, and not take hours every morning.
Read customer reviews and look at the different snow blower ratings, by doing this you should be able to make an educated decision. Look at some customer images, this way you can gauge whether their requirements are similar to yours.
Typically two stage gas models offer wider clearing widths, up to around 27 inches.
Engine Size, Type, Power & Engine Driven Wheels
When it comes to the difference between single stage and two stage snow blowers, many single-stage snow throwers out there now are electric-powered, either corded or cordless. Whilst this is extremely convenient, it can really reduce their abilities.
If you live in a high snow fall area, you would probably be best to avoid electric models and opt for more powerful two-stage gas powered snow blowers.
Two-stage snow blowers are tried and tested systems from many different snow blower brands. They offer much more power and torque to plow through some serious depths, more compact, and wet snow.
Many of them now feature a selection of speeds and also self-propelled. Meaning you don’t need to do the hard work. Instead they use this variable speed gearbox allowing you to simply follow.
With that said, they do have a much more intense maintenance and storage routine compared to their electric counterparts, and if you don’t take the time to do it properly, you’ll quickly find that your snow blower won’t start when you need it the most.
Push Button Electric Start or Pull Start
There was a time when all snow blowers had to be started by the old pull-cord method. But in the early hours of the morning you want a snow blower that starts quickly, easily, and first time, every time.
If your budget allows it, I’d always recommend opting for an electric push button start on a gas-powered snow blower. This can save a lot of headaches with snow blower cords not recoiling and other common pull-start issues.
Of course, electric and cordless battery-powered models don’t have this issue.
Gears & Power Steering
The higher end gas-powered snow blowers out there will typically offer you six forward speeds and two reverse speeds. This not only gives you the best selection to tackle any conditions at your own pace. But, also means you can clear the more troublesome areas with ease.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the speed control before you spend any money. A single-speed snow blower can be a lot harder to tame.
A feature many snow blowers also now have is power steering, making handling them much easier. With the more advanced models even offering ‘single-hand control’. This essentially is a technology that manages the wheel speeds independently. Allowing you to turn extremely easily without worrying about the weight of the snow blower.
Dead Mans Control & Shear Pins
Dead man’s control is an extremely important safety feature for snow blowers, especially self-propelled ones. Much like with jetskis, the dead man’s control ensures the user is in physical contact with the machine. Therefore, should anything happen, and the operator loses control it will cut itself off immediately.
On lawnmowers, this is typically a bar that has to be held in place, both to start and keep the machine running. While on jetskis there’s likely a string or lanyard which kills the engine the second the rider falls off.
Another important safety feature found on snow blowers is a shear pin. A shear pin is a purposely weak bolt that connects the auger to the driveshaft and gearbox. Should you accidentally run over something hard, such as a rock, the bolt will break. Saving you the need for a new auger blade and/or gearbox.
Adjustable Discharge Chute (Remote Chute Control)
There are certain adjustments you need to be able to make on the fly, such as chute control. This manages the direction of the chute so snow removal is safe and efficient.
It helps to have a remote chute handle for adjusting this so you don’t have to stop and start with every corner turn to change the angle of snow discharge.
People Also Read: How To Make My Snow Blower Throw Farther
Non-Essential But ‘Nice To Have’ Features
Whilst we all want the best we can afford, sadly sometimes it’s just not possible. The following features are often touted by manufacturers as selling points, but the truth is you don’t really ‘need’ them for snow removal.
- Heated Handles / Heated Hand Grips
- LED Headlight
- Tire Chains
You can work around heated handles by simply investing in a good pair of winter gloves. The same with the headlights, for just a few bucks you can get a super bright and comfortable LED headlamp on Amazon which does the same job but for 10x less money.
On the other hand, tire chains can be somewhat essential depending on your circumstances. If you work on slopes, struggle with ice, or are working on grass or mud, then a good pair of snow blower tire chains could really be a worthwhile investment.
So After All That, Which Snow Blower Do I Need?
These machines all do the same thing but, as with everything, some do it better than others! I can’t speak for everyone’s situation, so again I suggest you check your average snowfalls. Set a budget based on the snowfall, then spend some time on my site until you can find the right machine for the job.
Hopefully, I’ve given you enough information to get you started, but if you have any questions feel free to drop a comment on any of the posts.
Frequently Asked Questions
There you have it, all the information that will put you on the right path to investing wisely. But here are some of the questions that people often ask us.
Should I leave gas in my snowblower over the summer?
Although this topic gets some debate, I will say that you should never leave gas in your snowblower over the summer. I will always recommend that you follow the long term storage maintenance checks found in your operator’s manual.
Is 3 stage snow blower better than 2 stage?
A 3 stage snow blower is better than a 2 stage due to having an impeller accelerator and more horsepower. Because of these features, a three-stage snow blower can clear up to 50% faster than two-stage models.
What is the most reliable snow blower brand?
In my humble opinion, if I have to choose one, the most reliable snow blower brand would be Ariens with the Compact 24 featured in our reviews above. But Husqvarna and Toro, amongst others, are both reputable companies that supply good quality and performance.
What size snow blower do I need?
To know what size snow blower you need there are a couple of things to consider. Firstly the amount of snow you get on a regular basis. Secondly, is the size of the area, a little electric snow blower is not going to be good for a 15 car driveway or a foot of snow.
