How to choose a snow blower

When temperatures start to drop, it's time to prepare for winter! A snowblower can be a valuable tool to have on hand. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one.

Gas or Electric Snow Blower: How to Choose Between the Two

When purchasing a snow blower, the main decision will be between an electric snow blower or a gas-powered snow blower. Both are excellent options, but it all depends on the size of the area to be cleared and the amount of snowfall in your area each year.
Electric snow blowers, as the name suggests, are powered by electricity. They can be plugged in or run on batteries. They're typically the preferred option for removing snow from smaller areas, such as patios, decks, walkways, stairs, and even small parking lots. Electric snow blowers are also popular in areas with little snowfall.

Gas-powered snow blowers are generally more robust and useful for clearing areas such as driveways leading to multiple parking spaces. Single-, two-, and three-stage models are available, allowing for consistent removal of snow from larger snow loads.
Now that you have a clear idea of ​​the right solution for your needs, you need to consider which model is right for you. Take a look at each one below.

Different types of snow blowers

Here are some pros and cons of the five main types of snow blowers to help you make a quick and informed choice.

Electric snow blower with cable

Advantages :

• Lightweight and compact
• Easy to maneuver
• Can be stored in small spaces
• Eco-friendly
• Quiet operation
• Minimal maintenance

Flaws:

• An electrical outlet is required
• Available in single phase models only
• Intended for small areas only
• Not suitable for snow banks created by snowplows
• Not suitable for gravel surfaces
• Made from materials that are less durable than gasoline snow blowers
• The cable may get in your way

How snow blowers work

Snow blowers operate differently depending on the number of stages. Snow is collected and discharged by single-, two-, and three-stage snow blowers.

Single-stage snow blowers

A single-stage snow blower contains two rotating rubber blades that touch the ground and collect snow in the blower's path. The blades push the snow into the chute, collect it, and launch it in a single motion.

2-stage snow blowers

In the first stage of a two-stage snowblower, two high-strength toothed worms collect snow inside the blower. In the second stage, a high-speed turbine pushes the snow upward through the ejector.

3-stage snow blowers

A 3-stage snow blower also uses two steel augers to collect and collect snow within the machine. Then, before the snow reaches the turbine, it passes through an accelerator. This clears snow 50% faster than two-stage models. The wider the cut, the more snow can be moved in a single pass, meaning the job gets done faster. These snow blowers are ideal for quickly and easily completing large and complex jobs.