Watching the belter of the finale of Game of Thrones’ season 7 got me thinking. No, not about poor Dragon being enlisted in the Night King’s ‘mind control’ camp, or whether Westeros will rebuild the wall and make the Walkers pay for it, or “Clegane Bowl” (hell-yeah!!). I’m talking about the snow flake that gently fell on Jamie’s glove towards the end. An indicator that, winter is in fact coming to Westeros. While there’s still a couple of months left before we see the first snowflakes fall in the US, the unusually varying climate we’ve witnessed lately might be an indicator that winter may come sooner than we’d expected.
Benefits of Using a Snow Blower
Whenever major snow fall arrives, most folks are stoked with the immediate aftermath. The possibility of a snow day, having fun in the snow and a much-needed break from the day-to-day grind. Another not-so-exciting side effect of snowfall is being tasked with clearing the driveway. And for many people, that’s exactly what they get tasked to do first. Shoveling heavy snow in freezing cold weather is certainly not anybody’s idea of spending a snow day, and if you aren’t the type to sprint on a treadmill, you may soon find yourself injured and making the trip to the hospital too. Do you know why that happened? Because you weren’t prepped for the task ahead.
Clearing a few hundred cubic feet of snow will require some manly brawn and the right tool, and that tool is – the snow blower. Here are some of the benefits of using a snow blower:
Does Not Require Much Effort — Shoveling snow isn’t as easy as it looks. Depending on the size of your driveway or garden, by the time you’ve finished, you’ll need an ice pack for your back. Now compare that to a snow blower that’s a lot easier to operate and will not break your back.
Easy to Maneuver — Snow blowers are incredibly easy to steer. They are also lightweight, so there’s no hassle pushing them. The latest snow blowers can even push themselves forward, which takes away hard work from the equation.
Prevents Unnecessary Injuries — Why would you want to do something the hard way when there’s an easy way available? Using a snow blower takes away the risk of getting injured while removing snow from the front lawn or the driveway without putting stress on your back.
Get the Job Done Quickly — One thing’s for sure, you are going to clear that snow much quicker using a snow blower as compared to shoveling.
Snow Blowers Go Where Shovels Can’t — Ever tried shoveling snow on a gravel driveway? Using a shovel will only destroy it, and what about working on slopes? Using a snow blower makes working in these areas easy, saving you time and money.
How Do Different Types of Snow Blowers Work?
While all snow blowers look alike, there are quite a few types of snow blowers available in the market. Let’s take a quick look at all of them:
Single-Stage Snow Blowers — Single-stage snow blowers usually work on electricity. In these blowers, the auger takes care of two tasks. The first is to suck up all the snow, and the second obviously, is to throw it up in the air. While the auger is spinning to pick the snow, the pressure makes it propel itself forward, even though that’s not part of its function.
Single-Stage electric snow blowers are ideal for light snowfalls.
Two-Stage Snow Blowers —Two-stage snow blowers are usually gas-powered. The two-stage models feature an impeller which is responsible for discharging the snow from the chute. This extra component allows the auger to focus more on scooping the snow. These types of snow blowers are also a bit harder to maneuver since they do not touch the ground, unlike the single-state models that are able to propel themselves forward because they do come in contact with the ground.
Two-stage snow blowers are ideal for heavy snowfall.
Gas, Corded and Cordless
Another factor to consider when choosing a snow blower is whether it has a cord or doesn’t. All three of these options come with their share of positive and negative points, so it’s best to keep those in mind before making a decision.
Advantages of a Gas Snow Blower
Tackle More Snow — The impeller of a two-stage gas snow blower allows you to tackle more snow, since it serves a specific function, while the auger takes care of scooping up the snow. This allows the snow blower to have a wider reach as compared to other types of snow blowers.
Works on Different Types of Surfaces — Since the auger does not touch the ground in this type of snow blower, it can work for multiple surfaces.
Built to Last — Gas powered snow blowers are nearly a hundred pounds heavier than electric gas blowers, so they can take a real beating while scooping up snow.
Advantages of a Corded, Electric Snow Blower
The Least Expensive Option – The price of the corded, electric snow blowers is the main selling point of this machine. Corded, electric models also provide a high level of quality so they’re not to be considered as cheap stuff.
Easy to Operate — We mentioned earlier how the gas-powered models don’t touch the ground while scooping up snow. There’s a negative side to this, meaning since there’s no assistance from the snow blower, you have to steer it yourself. But, this is still a good choice. All you have to do is plug it in and start scooping.
No Need for Heavy Maintenance – Electric snow blowers are low-maintenance, but you will still need to take good care of it for it to function properly. That being said, maintenance of a corded, electric snow blower is much easier as compared to other options.
Advantages of a Battery-Powered Snow Blower
No Need for an Electric Cord – Battery-powered snow blowers can be used anywhere, but you are still going to need an outlet to charge them.
Top Brands Offer More Battery Power — Snow blowers use a lot of power to complete the task, this means that the brand you choose must provide a battery that can go the distance.
Lower Noise Pollution — Since this type of snow blower is powered by a battery, it makes less noise as compared to other options. This makes it a good option for old folks or those people who are sensitive to loud sounds.
Top Rated Snow Blowers
Time to share our much-awaited list of top quality snow blowers. So, without further ado, let’s begin:
- YARDMAX YB6270 (Gas-Powered)
- Snow Joe Ultra SJ625E (Electric)
- Snow Joe Ultra SJ621 (Electric)
- Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO (Cordless)
- Power Smart DB7651 (Gas-Powered)
- Husqvarna ST224P (Gas-Powered)
- GreenWorks Pro 80V 2600402 (Cordless)
Snow Joe Ultra SJ625E
Features:
- 15-amp motor
- Can move 800lbs of snow per minute
- 180° adjustable directional chute can throw snow 20ft
- 3W LED light for nighttime viewing
- Compact wheels
- Ideal for mid-sized driveways
- No gas, oil or tune-ups
- Steel auger with 2 rubber blades cuts 21″ wide and 12″ deep
- ETL approved
- Full 2-year warranty
Can Move up to 800lbs of Snow Per Minute — Although the Snow Joe Ultra is an electric powered machine, it can still move up to 800 pounds of snow per minute, which is at par with the gas-powered models. The reason why it can handle so much snow is because of its 15-amp motor and powerful auger.
Sturdy Scraper Blade – The scraper blade is tasked with attacking the snow on the ground. The Snow Joe Ultra has a powerful scraper blade that moves close to the ground making sure that there’s no slow left after a single run.
3-Watt LED Light — Many people have no choice but to clear snow at night, or it can get worse in the morning. Even if you do have lights in the garden or driveway, they still won’t be able to reach every corner. The SJ625E features a LED light that helps illuminate those nooks and crannies while you’re taking care of business.
180-Degree, Rotating Discharge Chute — With a 180-degree rotating discharge chute, it’s easier to get rid of the snow rather than pulling it along after it’s been gathered. The discharge chute on the SJ625E is also adjustable for your convenience. The powerful discharge chute can throw the gathered snow up to 20 feet in the air. The height of the flute can also be adjusted so the snow goes exactly where you want to go, and not in the neighbor’s yard.
Easy to Maneuver — This is not a top-rated snow blower because it looks good. The Snow Joe Ultra is also light weight, making it easier to move around without any fuss. This snow blower only weighs around 37.7 pounds which is much lighter than other snow blower models, making it extremely easy for anybody to operate.
Reaches Snow Up To 12 Inches Deep — The Snow Joe Ultra is an efficient snow blower, reaching depths of 12 inches, and it’s also wide enough to cover a large area in one go.
Snow Joe Ultra SJ621
Features:
- Ideal for mid-sized driveways or walkways
- No need for tune-ups or oil change makes it easy to maintain
- 5-amp motor can move 650lbs of snow per minute
- 4-blade steel auger cuts 18 in. wide by 10 in. deep
- 180° adjustable chute throws snow up to 20ft
- 20 W halogen light
- Compact wheels
- ETL approved
- 2-year warranty
Can Move Up to 650 lbs of Snow Per Minute – The Snow Joe Ultra SJ621 is only slightly less powerful as compared to the previous model. But it’s certainly no slouch. With its powerful 13.5 amp motor, you can clear up to 650 pounds of snow per minute and throw it up to 20 feet.
Easy-Glide Pivot Wheels Makes it Easy to Maneuver – Easy glide wheels make the SJ621 incredibly easy to maneuver through difficult areas. This snow blower only weighs 32.9 pounds, so it doesn’t stress your back either.
Good Clearing Depth — The SJ621 has a clearing depth of 10 inches which is not as deep as the previous version, and the scraper blade will prevent the surface from getting damaged.
20-Watt Halogen Light — The bright halogen light makes it easier for one to see there they are going, especially when clearing snow at night.
Ergonomic Design — The ergonomic design of the SJ621 makes it clear the manufacturers had the customers in mind when designing the SJ621. Its rubber handle makes for a solid grip so it doesn’t slip while operating.
Rotating Discharge Chute — The SJ621 allows you to clear around 2,450 square feet per hour. The discharge chute lets you decide where you want to put the snow after it’s been cleared.
Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO
Features:
- Powerful 600 W brushless motor
- Decreased noise
- Weighs only 36lbs
- 40 V 5.0 Ah EcoSharp PRO rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 65 minutes of whisper-quiet runtime
- No pull cords, gas, oil, tune-ups, or carbon emissions
- Steel auger with 2 rubber blades moves up to 660 lbs of snow per minute
- Cuts a path 21 in. wide by 8 in. deep without damaging surface
- 180° auto-rotate directional chute
- 3 W LED headlight
- ETL approved
- Full 2-year warranty
- Includes battery and charger (Energy Star certified)
Up to 65 Minutes of Operation Time — The Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO has a powerful battery that provides up to 65 minutes of runtime, which is not bad at all for a battery powered device. Apart from that, the powerful in this snow blower is a 40V 5ah EcoSharp Pro battery that’s only found in high-end snow blower models.
Nice and Quiet While Removing Snow — Snow blowing can be annoying mainly due to the loud noise that’s produced when it is working. On the other hand, the Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO is surprisingly quiet while it’s on, so you’re not punishing your ears while removing snow.
Removes Up to 660lbs of Snow Per Minute — The Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO has enough power to remove around 660 pounds of snow per minute, and then discharge the snow up to 20 feet in the air. The Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO can cut through 8 inches of snow and has a path that’s 21 inches wide.
Advanced Features — The Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO is not a premium product for nothing. All you have to do is press a button to get started and other features, such as the powerful motor and LED headlight will ensure that you get the job done, even after the sun goes down.
Rust Resistant and Sturdy Build — The Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO does not rust mainly because it has been made from rust resistant components. Even the brushless motor and steel auger have been built to last in the Snow Joe iON21SB-PRO.
GreenWorks Pro 80V (2600402)
Features:
- Digital controlled brushless motor provides more torque
- Up to 45 minutes of runtime when fully charged
- 20″ clearing path and 10″ clearing depth
- 20-foot discharge from a 180-degree rotating chute
- LED Lights allow for better visibility
- Easy Fold System for storage and transportation
- 6″ rear wheels
A Decent Amount of Run Time — The GreenWorks Pro features the same batteries that power Tesla cars, so you get an idea of the kind of technology that’s been used in this snow blower. The powerful battery allows you to get up to 45 minutes of run time after it’s fully charged. While it may not be much compared to the other models, it does offer just the right amount of time to clear your driveway or walkway.
Designed for Your Convenience — The GreenWorks Pro 80V has lots of features that have been included to maximize its efficiency. All it takes is a push of a button to get it started, and this snow blower also is low on maintenance.
Saves Energy — The low-level vibrations given off by the GreenWorks Pro 80V makes it energy efficient. This has been welcomed since operating most snow blowers feels like jumping on a bull. The GreenWorks Pro, on the other hand, is a lot smoother, which makes handling easier.
180-Degree Rotating Chute — The GreenWorks Pro 80V makes it easy to clear snow from the patio, driveway or sidewalk with its 180-degree rotating chute. This feature allows you to stay in control of where the snow lands once it has been scooped up by the snow blower.
Decent Clearing Depth and Width — The auger of the GreenWorks Pro 80V has a 20-inch wide auger, meaning that it’s more than enough for clearing snow from medium sized areas. The GreenWorks Pro also has a snow clearing depth of 10 inches, which is a respectable depth for clearing snow.
Husqvarna ST224P
Features:
- 208cc Husqvarna Branded LCT 4-Cycle Engine
- Clearing width of 24inches
- Friction-Disc Drive Transmission with six speeds and one reverse
- Trigger Mounted Power Steering and heated grips
- Easy to use levers for better control
- 4 different positions
- Remote Chute and Deflector Control
- 3 Year Limited Warranty and 5 Year Engine Warranty
Powerful 208cc 4-cycle Engine – The Husqvarna ST224P boasts of a powerful engine that helps clearing snow quicker after it’s been filled with 0.71 gallons of fuel. The engine comes with a 5-year warranty.
Convenient Handling with a Slimline Control Panel — We all know that gas-powered snow blowers are a lot larger than electric or battery operated models. The Husqvarna ST224P is a monster of a snow blower weighing nearly 200 pounds. But, the features and design of this particular snow blower makes it easy to control and maneuver. The heated handle grips are also a welcome addition to keep your pinky from freezing.
Trigger Mounted Power Steering — The next big surprise in this snow blower is its trigger mounted power steering that makes maneuvering a breeze. Although, you will have to put in a bit of effort, the power steering capabilities of this snow blower make the job a lot easier.
Can Operate on Any Surface —The Husqvarna ST224Phas a large clearing width of 24 inches which is complemented with a depth of 23 inches, with a maximum throwing distance of up to 35 feet.
Choose Between Various Speeds — The Husqvarna ST224P features a friction-disc drive transmission so you can change between six speeds and you can also take the Husqvarna ST224P in reverse. All of this makes you job incredibly easy, despite the intimidating design of the Husqvarna ST224P.
YARDMAX YB6270
Features:
- 208cc engine with 7.0 hp
- Push-button electric start
- Multi-Speed (6 forward and 2 reverse)
- Serrated steel augers slices through packed ice and snow
- 24″ clearing width
- Axe-shaped design for effortlessly chopping excessive snow and ice
- Weight: 161 pounds
- Solid Steel Construction including extended chute and auger
- Weight balance for operator comfort
Makes Slicing Through Snow and Ice Easy — With the YARDMAX YB6270, you won’t find it hard to slice through snow and ice with its serrated steel augers and axe-shaped design. This makes it the ideal snow blower for clearing tightly packed snow and ice.
Multiple Speeds and Dual Reverse Mode — The YARDMAX YB6270 features multiple speeds. There are six speed options for going forward, while there are two speed options for those who want to work the YARDMAX YB6270 in reverse.
Powerful Engine — The YARDMAX YB6270 features a very powerful engine which is considered to be top of its class. The 7-hp LCT engine is powerful and sturdy, so it never fails when the time comes to clear snow. The engine also features a recoil start option just in case the electric start fails.
Weight Balance for Getter Maneuverability — If your snow blower weighs around 161 pounds, you are going to need some help pushing it along. While the gas-powered YARDMAX YB6270 can propel itself forward, the weight balance is an ingenious addition to the YARDMAX’s design that enhances its maneuverability.
Impressive Clearing Depth and Width Gets the Job Done Quicker — The clearing width of the YARDMAX YB6270 is 24 inches while its intake is 21 inches in depth. The high-speed impeller is also capable of taking in a lot more snow as compared to other models. The specially designed, elongated chute throws the ice a long distance away so there’s no blowback.
Power Smart DB7651
Features:
- 5-HP 208cc LCT Storm Force engine
- 24-inch wide and 21-inch intake height
- 4-way joystick for control of snow discharge
- 180-degree chute rotation
- 12 in. serrated, all-steel augers
Powerful Engine Under the Hood — The Power Smart DB7651 boasts of a powerful engine that plays a big part in its high level of efficiency. The 6.5 hp 208cc LCT Storm Force engine delivers enough powerful to clear off snow from your driveway or walkway after heavy snowfall.
The Power Smart DB7651 Does the Heavy Lifting — This self-propelled snow blower can literally do everything for you (except make a snowman!). Press the start button to turn in on and take advantage of the 24 inches of clearing width and a 20-inch clearing depth to clean up all the snow in one go. The Power Smart DB7651 features solid 12-inch serrated steel augers that can destroy tightly packed snow and ice. Initially, setting the machine up will take a few minutes, but once it’s up and running, you won’t have much trouble steering this beauty.
Keep Control of the Snow Discharge — The Power Smart DB7651 scoops the snow and can throw it 35 feet away. To control the snow discharge, Power Smart has included a 4-way joystick control panel which keeps you in control of where the snow lands after it has been scooped.
Easy-to-Use Speed and Direction Control —The Power Smart DB7651 design puts the speed and direction lever conveniently right between the handles for easy reach. This gives the operator full control of where the snow blower is going and what speed it’s in. The Power Smart DB7651 has four speed levels and two speed levels for its reverse mode.
Safety Tips While Using a Snow Blower
Even if you are smart enough to own one of these snow blowers, you will still need to keep yourself safe while operating them. Not that they are dangerous, but accidents do happen. The following are some tips to keep yourself safe while clearing snow:
- You will need to familiarize yourself with the snow blower model you have purchased first before using it. This means reading the manual and getting familiar with its controls.
- You should never leave the snow blower unattended.
- Always wear proper clothing when you’re outside clearing snow.
- When dealing with blockages always switch the snow blower off before searching for the cause of the blockage.
Ending Note
With so many great options in snow blowers to choose from, it’s going to be a tough decision. But, remember, opting to shovel snow this winter will be even tougher!
