How to buy the perfect snowblower

How to Buy the Perfect Snowblower  
By: Vincent M.

Believe it or not, winter is almost upon us again, and for those of us who live in the Northern climates of the country, or in Canada, that can only mean one thing: SNOW!  And lots of it depending on where you live.  How you remove that snow from your drive way, walkway, or parking lot depending on many factors including how much snow you actually accumulate in a season and how much yardage you actually have to remove the fluffy white stuff from.  

Some of us can use a good ole fashioned snow shovel if a small space is all we have to clear.  But others need something much more robust to clear a path for the family automobile or mailman.  That is where the Snow Thrower or Snowblower comes into the picture.  What is the difference between the two?  Nothing really, the terms are interchangeable, and for the purposes of this guide, we will refer to the machine as a Snowblower here on out.

So, which snowblower is right for you?  The choices can be overwhelming.  But not to worry, with a few pointers, including some from a snowblower professional that I spoke with, you'll be able to narrow down your search and find a machine that fits your particular needs.  In narrowing down your choices make sure you make a budget and stick to it and not are roped into buying a snowblower you can't afford, loaded down with features you'll never use. 

So, before you begin that search for your new (or used) snowblower, take some time to read my guide to get advice and get informed.

Is a snowblower right for everyone? In a word: No. Get to know your snowfall.

Snowblowers are a significant investment and they are not exactly maintenance free, so...in order to determine whether or not you need a snow blower you should ask yourself the following questions:

• How much snow does my area of the county receive? In other words, in a single season how much snow falls in your area; less than ten inches, or more than 20 inches a season? If you get loads of snow per season and spend a lot of time clearing it by hand, then you could probably use a snow blower, especially in you have a long driveway, or walkway to clear. And if you own a small business, do you have an entire parking lot to clear. If this is the case, even if the snowfall is between 5 to 20 inches a season, a snow blower might be worth the investment.
• What type of snow do I need to clear---light, medium, heavy, or extra-heavy? This question will inform what type of snow blower you purchase. With only a light or moderate snowfall to clear a single stage snow blower is probably all you will need. However, if you experience heavy or extra-heavy snowfall, then a larger two-stage snow blower might before you.

So, you think you need a snowblower-learn the basics

Snowblowers can range in size from the very small, capable of removing light snow (that several inches in an 18 to 20 inch path), to very large, mounted snow blowers capable of removing 10 foot wide swaths of heavy snow up to 6 feet deep. Snowblowers are usually divided into two types, or classes: single stage snowblowers and two stage snowblowers.

What is a single stage snowblower?

Single-stage snowblowers use an auger assembly to collect the snow and discharge it.   The auger (a tool made of metal with a corkscrew-shaped bit used to gather the snow) spins at high speed in order to chip ice and snow, collect it, and direct it out of a discharge chute.  The spinning auger contacts the surface to be cleared clearing and pulls the assembly forward despite not being propelled by engine-driven wheel(s).  This continuous motion does result in some measure of self-propulsion, but the operator must still guide the snow blower. Single stage blowers, which have a clearing width from about 12" - 22", are best used on pavement or other smooth surfaces because the auger directly contacts the clearing surface.

Many single-stage snowblower models have multi-directional discharge chutes that can be aimed from the operating position while the thrower is in use. These snowblowers have wheels and can blow or toss snow some 25'-35'. Single-stage snow blowers are best suited for residential use after light to moderate snows of 3"-5."

The advantages of the single stage snowblower are they are fairly lightweight, easy to use and have an electric starter.

These snowblowers are perfect for light or medium snowfall, less than 12", driveways less than 40' and clearing areas: 20 - 22 inches.

Single Stage Snowblowers should not be used for: Hills, uneven, or gravel surfaces; this is due to the fast spinning auger, which will scoop up stones along with the snow and potentially damage the machine.

What is a double stage snowblower?

The primary difference between single-stage and two-stage snowblowers is the rotating impeller (the rotating part of a pump that transmits motion in a device such as a centrifugal pump, turbine, or blower) behind the snow collecting auger assembly. The alluded to above, the impeller acts like a pump, that is it collects the snow drawn in and broken up by the main auger and expels it  from the plastic or rubber discharge chute at a high speed.  This second-stage allows the snow blower to handle a deeper snowfall and clear larger areas- from 20" to more than 36" depending on the model.  In addition, the second stage functionality allows the thrower to move the snow a greater distance (up to 45' with some models) to either side of the thrower.

Because of the bulk and extra weight of the second stage, the design of this type of snowblower necessitates engine-driven wheels or tank-style tracks on the machine. Unlike their single-stage cousins, on a double-stage snow blower the auger assembly doesn't contact the clearing surface; the front of the thrower rides on adjustable metal plates or skids instead.

The skids control the clearing height of the main auger and can be replaced when they become worn. Two-stage snow blowers can be used on almost any surface due to the adjustable clearing height. In addition, both one and two-stage blowers can use multiple speed reversible transmissions, with some transmissions allowing for the independent operation of the wheels; this aids in turning the blower.

Because of the extremely cold temperature in which they are often called upon to operate in, most two-stage snowblowers have specially designed starters, cooling systems, and 4-cycle winterized engines.  The vast majority of two-stage snowblowers are intended for residential use.  Those designed for professional use usually provide additional features that can include heated handgrips, electric start mechanisms, hydrostatic variable-speed transmissions headlamps, vinyl cabs for protection from the cold, and drift cutters for deep snow.

The advantages of the double stage snowblower: can clear big paths, easy to start with electric starter, power driven wheels, uses a slower-spinning auger and fast-spinning impeller; this combination tosses the snow out of the chute a good distance from the path being cleared.

The disadvantages of the double stage snowblower: they tend to be heavy bulky machines and require engine maintenance/

The double stage snowblower is ideal for:

• Medium - heavy snowfall over 12"
• Hard compacted snow that might also contain ice
• Two-car driveways, or driveways longer than 40'
• Hilly or uneven terrain and or gravel driveways and paths
• Average size clearing area: 28 - 30 inches

Snowblower Recommendations Based on Your Snowfall

Which snowblower you ultimately chose will depend heavily on the mount of snow your region of the country experiences in a given season.  Here is a good breakdown:

• Light use snowblower: 10" or less of snowfall: a single-stage snowblower should suffice here, especially if all you need to clear is a walk way or small driveway. But if course if your drive way is not paved, an entry-level two-stage snowblower might be more appropriate.
• Medium use: up to 16" of snowfall: with this amount of snowfall a single-stage snowblower might still be appropriate, but again it depends on the surface and the size of the path you need to clear.
• Heavy Use: up to 22" snowfall or more: with this mount of snowfall a two-stage gasoline-powered snowblower is called for. Not only can the double-stage handle more snow, but it can also handle the different types (light, medium, heavy/wet) of snow better. In addition two-stage throwers can clear a large path and tend to be more maneuverable.

Recommended Single-stage models include:

• Craftsman 123cc 4-cycle Single-stage Snowblower ($329.99)
• Craftsman 179 cc Snow Thrower ($399.99)
• SnowJoe SJ803 179cc 21'' Gas Snow Blower ($569.99)
• SnowJoe SJ805 208cc 21'' Gas Snow Thrower ($619.99)

Recommended Double-stage models include:

• Craftsman 208 cc 26 In. 2 Stage Snow Thrower ($699.99)
• Craftsman Professional 357 cc 30'' 2 Stage Snow Blower ($989.99)
• Snapper 26'' Dual Stage Snowblower ($899.88)
• Craftsman Professional 357 cc 33'' 2 Stage Snow Thrower ($1989.99)

Snowblower Features

The features you need largely depends on consumer needs.  But one thing is crucial: make sure you get enough snowblower for your needs.  Do not underestimate, or over-estimate your needs and buy more snowblowing power than you actually need.  Some of the options like 4-cycle engines, powered wheels, joystick controls, reverse, power steering, etc. may look good on paper but are they actually what is needed? No.

A few snowblower options to consider:

• 4-cycle OHV engine: is a more power, less maintenance intensive alternative to the traditional 2-cycle engine. There is no mixing of oil and gas and the overhead valve design makes the engines more powerful, run more efficiently, and emit fewer emissions.
• Push-button Electric Start: makes for quick and easy starting with the simple push of a button.
• Remote Chute Rotation: allows you to rotate the chute up to 190 degrees allowing you to throw snow in practically any direction.
• Single Lever Joystick Control: not only controls the direction of the chute, but also allows you to adjust the height of the chute.
• Headlight: self-explanatory.
• Single hand control: leaves one hand free to manipulate other controls on the thrower.
• Power Steering: changes the direction of the thrower by engaging the left or right trigger located on the handles.
• Drift Cutters: extends the height of the thrower by cutting into the snow bank; the loosened snow then falls in front of the auger assembly allowing it to be thrown.
• Universal Snow Cab: protects the operator from wind and blowing snows; comes with a universal installation kit for walk-behind- throwers.

Warning: Snowblowers are not maintenance free

With proper care and maintenance a snowblower should last 10 -15 years or more, but you need to take care of it.  Like anything mechanical snowblowers do need periodic and preventative maintenance.  Any snowblower owners would do well to load up on spare bag or two of shear-pins.  A sheer-pin protects the snowblowers internal transmission by breaking should the auger encounter a load heavier than snow.  Products like the Craftsman Replacement Snowblower Shear-Pins, can cost as low as $5.99 per bag, and you can change the part yourself. Another valuable replace part(s) are the replacement drive belts for two-stage snowblower s.  These include the MTD Genuine Factory Parts Wheel Drive Belt for Two-Stage Snowblowers ($16.99), and the MTD Genuine Factory Parts Auger Belt for Two-Stage Snowblowers ($16.99).

In addition, there are clearly delineated maintenance periods associated with snowblowers, not unlike lawn mowers and other large mechanical tools, and machinery.  They are outlined below:

General Snowblower Maintenance:

• Periodically check the oil level in the engine;
• Change the oil after 5-8 hours of use, and every 50 hours thereafter;
• Periodically check the shear bolts and shear-pins;
• Change spark plugs after 100 hours of use;
• Run unit a few minutes after removing snow, clean and dry the unit before storing;

Seasonal Snowblower Maintenance:

• At the beginning of season change out engine gasoline, if not done at the end of the season;
• Check the tire pressure, oil, etc.
• Check for generalized wear, tear, and rust;
• Check the shear bolts and shear-pins

End-of-season Snowblower Maintenance: Run the engine until the gasoline runs out, then drain remaining gas from engine; this is an important step, since using old contaminated gasoline can damage the engine.  Also, clean the snowblower and lubricate everything and store in a dry space. 

Now that you know the basics, I recommend that you visit Sears.com's Snowblower eCatalog 2008/09.  Inside the Snow Thrower eCatalog  you will find all manner of information on Sears Craftsman Snowblowers including some more useful information snowblowers in general and Craftsman snowblowers in particular. Do your homework and learn the offerings before you head to the store. The eCatalog is comprehensive and complete and I highly recommend reading it before you walk into a store.        

If I can stress one point it is do your research before you buy to prevent making the wrong buying choice.  Educate, educate, educate, yourself and you cannot go wrong.  Purchasing a snowblower is a huge investment in time and money and it should not be taken lightly.  I hope that after reading this guide you have a better understanding of not only what a snowblower is, but how it works and what it can do for you. 

And, act fast.... Try and buy your snowblower off-season!  In the Fall is when great promotions on throwers can be found, and you can typically save $100.00 - $300.00 depending on the model you ultimately choose.  Great deals can also be found in the Spring; off-season again, think off-season for the best deals. 

Snowblower Quicklinks:

• Craftsman 123cc 4-cycle Single-stage Snowblower ($329.99)
• Craftsman 179 cc Snow Thrower ($399.99)
• SnowJoe SJ803 179cc 21'' Gas Snow Blower ($569.99)
• SnowJoe SJ805 208cc 21'' Gas Snow Thrower ($619.99)
• Craftsman 208 cc 26 In. 2 Stage Snow Thrower ($699.99)
• Craftsman Professional 357 cc 30'' 2 Stage Snow Blower ($989.99)
• Snapper 26'' Dual Stage Snowblower ($899.88)
• Craftsman Professional 357 cc 33'' 2 Stage Snow Thrower ($1989.99)

Vincent M. is an Information Technology Professional who has a keen interest in all things electronic. He has written over 1,500 consumer reviews on a broad spectrum of products, and he is a member of the Viewpoints Publishers Circle.  Vincent is a husband, father, grandfather and lives west of Chicago.