Essential Guide to Choosing and Maintaining Snowblowers

Apr 2
09:19

2024

Craig Thornburrow

Craig Thornburrow

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When winter's chill sets in, a reliable snowblower can transform the daunting task of snow removal into a manageable chore. With the right machine, you can keep your driveway and sidewalks clear, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. This guide offers valuable advice for selecting, using, and maintaining your snowblower, ensuring you're prepared for whatever winter conditions may arise.

Understanding Your Snow Removal Needs

Before investing in a snowblower,Essential Guide to Choosing and Maintaining Snowblowers Articles assess the typical snowfall in your area and the size and slope of your driveway. For regions that experience heavy snowfall, a two-stage gas snowblower is ideal for long, wide, or inclined driveways. In contrast, areas with lighter snowfall can often make do with a single-stage gas blower.

Test Driving Snowblowers

Many retailers offer floor models for customers to try out. A test drive can help you determine the best fit for your needs. Pay attention to the machine's weight, handlebar height, and chute control, which should allow you to adjust both the direction and angle of the snow discharge.

Top Snowblower Recommendations

The market offers a plethora of snowblowers, each with unique features and price points. Notable models include:

  • Toro Power Max 828LXE: A robust two-stage gas engine snowblower priced around $1,250.
  • Troy-Built Storm 10030: Another two-stage gas engine option, available for approximately $1,300.
  • Toro 1800 Power Curve 38025: An electric engine snowblower for those on a budget, costing about $300.
  • Honda Harmony HS520AS/HS520A: A single-stage gas engine model, a mid-range option at $750.

Safety First

When operating a gas-powered snowblower, always start the engine outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use your hands or feet to remove clogs; instead, turn off the engine and use the provided clearing tool to safely dislodge blockages.

Maintenance Matters

To ensure longevity and optimal performance, regular maintenance of your gas-powered snowblower is crucial. For two-cycle engines, correctly mix fuel and oil. Additionally, checking and cleaning the air filters each season is vital for maintaining efficiency.

Interesting Snowblower Stats

While many consumers focus on the power and price of snowblowers, there are other interesting statistics worth considering:

  • According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were approximately 5,740 snowblower-related injuries treated in emergency departments in the United States in 2018. Consumer Product Safety Commission
  • A study by the National Resources Defense Council projects that by 2050, climate change could reduce the snow season by up to 50% in some parts of the Northern Hemisphere, potentially impacting the snowblower market. National Resources Defense Council

Selecting the right snowblower can be a significant decision, but with the proper knowledge and maintenance, you can ease the burden of snow removal and keep your property safe and accessible throughout the winter season.