Purchasing a Snowblower
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Before You Buy
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When purchasing a snow blower, there are a few things you'll have to consider first. If you have certain health problems, such as diabetes or heart disease, you should ask your physician before using a snow blower, due to its physical demands. Then, considering such factors as driveway or lot size, snowfall amounts, time and cost.
Power Source
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Do you have access to an outdoor electrical outlet? How long is your driveway or lot? One-stage electric snow blowers have power cords, but if the cord is not long enough, this won't work. This outlet must let you reach all areas that need plowing, including sidewalks. That will help determine whether you need a gas-powered or electric snow blower.
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One-Stage vs. Two-Stage Blower
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What kind of lot or driveway do you have? If it has gravel or loose stones, don't get a one-stage blower (the auger touches the ground). It will kick the gravel and stones through the chute. You need a two-stage blower. It is heavier, more expensive and takes more space, but the auger won't touch the ground, and you can adjust the height and direction of the chute.
Both one-stage gas and two-stage blowers are more expensive than one-stage electric blowers, but they can be more convenient because you won't need a power source when you're plowing a sidewalk or an especially long or wide driveway. Also, if there is an especially heavy storm and you have a power outage with no backup generator, it is good to have a gas-powered snow blower.
Size and Space of Snow Blowers
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Two-stage snow blowers can take up a lot of space, as some can plow areas from 2 to nearly 3 feet wide. They also need regular maintenance to run smoothly. Think about how big a snow blower you really need (or if you really need one), and how much garage or shed space you have to store it.
Snowfall and Other Considerations
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If your average snowfall per storm is less than about 8 inches, a one-stage blower should be adequate (unless your driveway is gravel or loose stones). Consider a two-stage blower if your average snowfall is 8 inches or more.
Don't choose from a catalog. Go to a reputable home improvement store and try the floor models. Check the gears and make sure the chute and handles adjust easily and quickly. Many blowers also come with headlights now, for early-morning or late-night plowing.
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