What Is the Difference Between Single Stage & Double Stage Snow Throwers?

Single- and two-stage snow throwers make light work of snow removal.

Snow blowers and throwers come in two distinctive types. Knowing their operation and what each specializes in will make your selection easier.

Identification

The use of the word "stage" in the case of snow blowers tends to confuse consumers. The key to differentiating between the two types of snow blowers is knowing the number of places snow comes in contact with each machine.

Single Stage

This style of snow blower, which comes in electric and gas versions, is typified by an auger. The auger spins, making one point of contact with the snow, which is thrown out of a chute in one efficient motion. This machine is lightweight and maneuverable.

Two Stage

With this machine, snow makes contact in two places---first by snow-gathering augers, which toss the snow into a high-speed impeller that then ejects snow through a chute. Two-stage machines are self-propelled and clear a wider path than single-stage machines.

Considerations

Smaller, paved driveways and sidewalks can be handled by a single-stage blower. However, two-stage snow throwers are the best option for unpaved driveways.

Gas or Electric

Choosing between gas and electric is a matter of preference. Unlike gas snow throwers, electric snow blowers require little to no maintenance.

References

• Wise4living: Single-Stage Snow Blowers
• ConsumerReports: Snow Blowers Buying Guide