Snow removal can be taxing on the body and time consuming. These powerful snowblowers will quickly and efficiently remove heavy snow from driveways and sidewalks.
Best Snowblowers to Choose From
Types of Snowblowers
The type of snowblower you choose will depend largely on the application, the average snowfall over time for your area, and the type of surface being cleared, as not all snowblowers are designed to handle unpaved driveways. There are three main types of snowblowers: corded electric, cordless electric and gas snowblowers.
Gas Snowblowers
Gas snowblowers provide plenty of power and are ideal for clearing heavy snow. Depending on the model you pick, you will be able to tackle medium to large, paved, unpaved or gravel driveways. They are available in three models: single-stage, two-stage and three-stage.
Single-stage models feature an auger that breaks up the snow and then lifts and tosses it aside. They are built to handle light to medium snow.
Two-stage units have an auger that lifts snow, and an impeller that throws it. The impeller action clears a wide path and the two-stage units provide more power than the single-stage model. They are built to clear heavy snow and ice and come in widths of up to 45" to tackle larger and longer driveways.
Three-stage gas snowblowers operate similar to two-stage snowblowers except they have a centre front auger, which helps these snowblowers break down the heavy wet snow.
Overall, gas snowblowers can be more expensive and require regular maintenance, however they will provide greater range and clearing power than any other snow removal options.
Snowblower Type | Snow Type | Ideal for Clearing | Benefits |
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Cordless Electric Snowblower |
Light, Moderate and Heavy Snow |
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Corded Electric Snowblower |
Light to moderate snowfall |
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Single-Stage Gas |
Light - Medium (2 inches – 9 inches of snow) |
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Two-Stage Gas | Heavy with ice (10 – 15 inches of snow) |
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Three-Stage Gas |
Heavy (up to 20 inches of snow) |
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Snowblower Features
Features | Description |
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Electric Start |
Many gas-powered snowblowers now feature electric start mechanisms, which replace pull cords and enable you to get started with the touch of a button. |
Power Steering |
A feature found on heavier two-stage gas snowblowers that allows for effortless turning and maneuverability. |
Heated Grips/Handle Bars |
Gloves will protect your hands against the cold, but they may not always keep them warm. Heated grips/handle bars will keep your fingers warm and comfortable no matter how windy or snowy the weather. |
Headlights |
Headlights allow for better visibility during heavy snowfalls and on dark nights; they are an effective safety feature for operators, pedestrians and motorists. |
Skid Shoes | Skid shoes are available on two-stage units and allow the height of the auger to be adjusted. This feature is especially useful on gravel driveways. |
Drift Cutters | Drift cutters are narrow steel blades on the sides of the auger that knife through hard-packed, icy snow drifts, making it easier to power your way through and clear them more efficiently. |
Snowblower Safety Tips |
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How to Maintain Your Snowblower
Gas Snowblower Maintenance
- Change spark plugs every year
- Change oil after every 25 hours of use
- Clean air filter after every 5 hours of use
- Use snow jet spray to prevent snow buildup and clogging
- Replace fraying or torn belts
- Inspect impeller and tighten regularly
PRO TIP: 95% of engine problems in gas mowers and blowers are associated with water condensation in the gas tank. Prevent this with fuel stabilizer or new engine fuel at the beginning or end of each season.