Conquer Winter: 5 Snowblower Types That Make Snow Clearing a Breeze

Overwhelmed by the white stuff? Tired of your old snowblower struggling with those heavy winters? It might be time for an upgrade. Let’s explore the latest models, from two-stage machines (perfect for larger properties) to advanced three-stage beasts (capable of clearing the deepest drifts).

Below are the primary snowblower types available in the market:

Snowblower Type	Description	Best-Selling Model
Single-Stage	Lightweight, ideal for light snow (up to 6″), best for small driveways and flat surfaces.	Toro Power Clear 821 QZE
Two-Stage	More powerful, handles heavy snow (up to 16″), suitable for larger areas and varied terrains.	Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO
Three-Stage	Heavy-duty, manages up to 18″ of snow, perfect for very large properties and extreme snowfall.	Cub Cadet 3X 30″ HD
Electric	Eco-friendly, low maintenance, best for light to moderate snow and smaller areas.	EGO Power+ SNT2405 24-Inch 56-Volt Self-Propelled 2-Stage Snow Blower
Gas-Powered	Offers greater power and mobility, ideal for heavy snow and extensive, uneven terrains.	Honda HSS1332ATD

Below, I talk about what to look for (and what to NOT look for) in each snowblower type…

Assess Your Snow Removal Needs

Before buying a snowblower, it’s key to know what you need. Several things matter, like how much snow falls in your area, your property’s size, and its terrain. These factors help pick the right snowblower for you.

Consider Average Snowfall in Your Region

The snowfall in your area is a big deal when choosing a snowblower. For light to moderate snow, a single-stage or electric snowblower works well. But, for heavy snow, a two-stage or three-stage gas-powered snowblower is better.

Evaluate the Size of Your Property

The size of your property affects the snowblower you need. For small driveways, a single-stage snowblower with a 20 to 22 inch clearing width is enough. But, for bigger areas, you’ll need a two-stage or three-stage snowblower with a 24 inch or wider clearing width.

Property Size	Recommended Snowblower Type
Small (up to 60 feet)	Single-stage electric or gas
Medium (60 to 100 feet)	Single-stage gas or two-stage gas
Large (over 100 feet)	Two-stage or three-stage gas

Determine the Terrain You Will Be Clearing

The terrain of your property is also important. A single-stage snowblower is fine for flat, paved driveways. But, for sloped or gravel areas, a two-stage or three-stage snowblower is better. These models handle tough terrains well.

By considering these factors, you can pick the right snowblower. This makes winter maintenance easier.

Understanding the Types of Snowblowers

Choosing the right snowblower is key. Each type has its own features and benefits. Let’s explore single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage snowblowers.

Single-Stage Snowblowers

Single-stage snowblowers are lightweight and easy to use. They’re perfect for light snow and small areas. They have one paddle that scoops and throws snow in one go.

They can handle snow up to a foot deep. They clear 18 to 24 inches wide per pass.

Two-Stage Snowblowers

Two-stage snowblowers are more powerful. They handle heavy snow and bigger areas. They use an auger and an impeller to throw snow.

They can throw snow up to 60 feet. They clear up to a foot deep. They clear 24 to 36 inches wide per pass.

Three-Stage Snowblowers

Three-stage snowblowers are the most heavy-duty. They tackle heavy snow and big areas. They have an accelerator for faster snow removal.

They clear snow up to 23 inches deep. They clear 24 to 36 inches wide per pass.

Snowblower Type	Suitable Snow Depth	Clearing Width	Key Features
Single-Stage	Up to 12 inches	18-24 inches	Lightweight, easy to maneuver, auger
Two-Stage	Up to 12 inches	24-36 inches	More powerful, auger, impeller, throws snow up to 60 feet
Three-Stage	Up to 23 inches	24-36 inches	Heavy-duty, auger, impeller, accelerator, speeds up snow removal

Electric vs. Gas-Powered Snowblowers

Choosing between an electric or gas-powered snowblower is a big decision. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. Let’s explore the main differences between electric and gas-powered snowblowers.

Advantages of Electric Snowblowers

Electric snowblowers are good for the environment because they don’t emit any pollutants. They are also much quieter than gas models. This is great if you live in a quiet neighborhood or prefer a quieter way to clear snow.

Electric snowblowers need very little upkeep. They don’t require oil changes or spark plug replacements. They are also lighter and easier to move around, which is helpful for those who are not as strong.

Characteristic	Electric Snowblowers	Gas-Powered Snowblowers
Eco-friendliness	Zero emissions	Produces emissions
Noise Level	Quiet operation	Louder
Maintenance	Minimal upkeep, no oil changes or spark plug replacements	Requires regular oil and filter changes, spark plug replacements
Weight and Maneuverability	Lighter and easier to handle	Heavier, but better grip on snow-covered surfaces

Benefits of Gas-Powered Snowblowers

Gas-powered snowblowers are more powerful and can clear more snow than electric models. They can handle up to 24 inches of snow in one pass. This makes them perfect for areas with lots of snow or bigger properties.

Gas models are more mobile since they don’t need a power cord. This lets you clear more area without needing extra cords or outlets. They are also heavier, which helps them stay stable on snowy ground.

Characteristic	Electric Snowblowers	Gas-Powered Snowblowers
Clearing Capacity	Max. clearing width: 24 inches Max. clearing height: 13 inches	Max. clearing height: 24 inches
Mobility	Limited by power cord length	Not limited by power cord
Cost	Around $800	Up to $3,400
Lifespan	Around 10 years with proper maintenance	Varies based on usage and maintenance

The choice between electric and gas-powered snowblowers depends on your needs. Electric models are good for light snow and are easy to maintain. Gas models are better for heavy snow and bigger areas because of their power and mobility.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Snowblower

When looking for a snowblower, it’s key to think about several important features. These features affect how well the machine works and your snow removal experience. Look at clearing width, intake height, power steering, chute control, and more.

The clearing width shows how much snow the snowblower can clear at once. A wider width means fewer passes, saving time and effort. Single-stage snow blowers clear 22 inches, while two-stage models clear 24-30 inches.

Intake height is also crucial. It shows how deep the snow the machine can handle. Choose a snowblower that matches your area’s snow depth. Two-stage models are great for all snow types and surfaces, especially gravel driveways, as this comprehensive guide explains.

Power Steering and Maneuverability

Power steering on multistage snowblowers makes them easier to turn. It disengages power to the wheels, helping in tight spaces or on slopes. Two-stage models also have power-assisted wheels for better control and clearing.

Chute Control and Discharge Distance

Chute control lets you adjust where the snow goes. This is key for efficient snow removal and avoiding snow buildup. The discharge distance is also important, as it affects how far snow is thrown.

A dead man’s switch stops the machine if you lose control, ensuring safety. An electric start is handy in cold weather. A headlight helps in low light, and multiple speeds prevent clogs in heavy snow.

Feature	Benefit
Clearing Width	Determines the amount of snow cleared in a single pass
Intake Height	Matches the depth of typical snowfall in your region
Power Steering	Enhances maneuverability by disengaging power to drive wheels
Chute Control	Adjusts the vertical and horizontal direction of the discharge chute
Discharge Distance	Determines how far the snow is thrown from the cleared path

Snowblower Brands and Models

Choosing a snowblower means looking at top brands. Toro, Ariens, Honda, and Craftsman are leaders. They offer many models for different needs and property sizes.

Toro Snowblowers

Toro is famous for its snowblowers. They have electric, single-stage gas, and two-stage gas models. These machines can clear snow up to 30 inches wide. You can find Toro snowblowers at outdoor power equipment dealers and Home Depot.

Ariens Snowblowers

Ariens is known for durable and efficient snowblowers. They have single-stage and two-stage gas models. Ariens snowblowers are available at outdoor power equipment dealers and Home Depot.

Honda Snowblowers

Honda snowblowers are reliable and perform well. They have advanced features like electric start. Honda offers models for all snow clearing needs.

Craftsman Snowblowers

Craftsman has a wide range of snowblowers. They include single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage gas models. Craftsman snowblowers are great for homes and businesses. You can find them at Lowe’s.

Brand	Models	Snow Clearing Width	Availability
Toro	Electric, Single-Stage Gas, Two-Stage Gas	12″ – 30″	Outdoor Power Equipment Dealers, Home Depot
Ariens	Single-Stage Gas, Two-Stage Gas	21″ – 30″	Outdoor Power Equipment Dealers, Home Depot
Honda	Various Models with Electric Start	Varies	Outdoor Power Equipment Dealers
Craftsman	Single-Stage Gas, Two-Stage Gas, Three-Stage Gas	20″ – 45″	Lowe’s

Choosing the Right Snowblower for Your Budget

When picking a snowblower, think about your budget and the long-term benefits. The cheapest option might seem good, but a reliable snowblower saves money over time. Budget-friendly models are smaller and more affordable.

Single-stage snow blowers, found in budget models, scoop and throw snow in one go. They’re great for light to moderate snow.

But, if you face heavy snow or have a big property, a more expensive model might be better. Higher-end snow blowers use gas motors for heavy snow. They also clear more area in one pass, saving time and effort.

Premium snow blowers have wider clearing areas. Two-stage models in these higher-priced models separate snow gathering and throwing. This boosts power and efficiency.

Budget Range	Snowblower Type	Clearing Width	Key Features
$200 – $500	Single-stage electric	12″ – 18″	Lightweight, easy to maneuver, suitable for light snowfall
$500 – $1,000	Single-stage gas	18″ – 22″	More powerful than electric models, self-propelled, ideal for moderate snowfall
$1,000 – $1,500	Two-stage gas	24″ – 26″	Powerful, adjustable chutes, larger wheels, electric start, reverse gear
$1,500+	Three-stage gas	28″ – 45″	Most powerful, multiple speeds, heated grips, LED lights, power steering

When setting your budget, think about the snowblower’s durability and quality. A well-made, reliable machine lasts longer, saving you money on repairs or replacements. Quality 24- to 26-inch two-stage models start at $1,100. They come with adjustable chutes, larger wheels, and more.

By carefully looking at your snow removal needs and budget, you can find the best snowblower. Remember, a quality, reliable, and efficient snowblower prepares you for winter.

Choosing the Best Snowblower for Your Needs

Start by thinking about how much snow you get and how big your area is. If you have three or more big snowstorms a year, a snowblower is a good choice.

Look at the different types of snowblowers. There are single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage models. Each is made for different snow depths and area sizes.

Think about what power source you want. Electric snowblowers are great for light snow and don’t need gas or oil. Gas-powered ones are stronger and better for bigger areas and heavy snow. Many gas models now have electric start, making them easier to start in cold weather.

Consider the snowblower’s clearing width and height. These tell you how much snow it can handle. Also, look at extra features like power steering and heated hand grips. They make using the snowblower easier and more comfortable.

Set a budget that fits your needs and wants. A good snowblower can save you time and effort in the long run. By choosing wisely, you can enjoy winter without the hassle of shoveling.

FAQ