How to Choose a Snowblower

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Admit it. Shoveling snow was fun when you were a kid. As an adult, it is a chore that leaves you achy and exhausted--that is, until you purchase a snowblower. With a variety of models available, quickly evaluating your situation can help you choose the snowblower that best fits your needs.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Knowledge of the area you will be clearing
Average snowfall amounts in your area

Step1

Select a size. The size of your job will dictate the size of the snowblower. Single-stage machines are recommended for clearing driveways and sidewalks. Lightweight and simple to operate, they can clear a path nearly 2-feet wide and move more than a half-foot of snow. Two-stage blowers are designed to handle the more difficult jobs. These machines loosen the snow before throwing. They can move over a foot of snow and operate best on graveled or sloped areas. The machinery is heavy, and steering can be difficult.

Step2

Assess power. The amount of power you need depends on the amount of snow you will be moving. A two-stage machine with up to a 9-horsepower engine is recommended for blowing between a foot and a foot-and-a-half of snow. Machines that have an engine in the 5 1/2- to 8-horsepower range should be used for modest snowfalls. Single-stage machines would be sufficient for a dusting of snow.

Step3

Check the starting system. Ask about the starter's reliability in frigid temperatures. The pull cord should be straight up with no twisting needed.

Step4

Determine throwing distance. When choosing a snowblower, look for a machine with an adjustable discharge system. This allows you to throw the snow the desired distance.

Step5

Evaluate electric versus recoil start. Not always standard, electric start should be considered for ease of use. Consider a snowblower with a halogen headlight for those dark winter nights. Folding handles are a plus if storage space is limited. Opt for an effortless crank to adjust the blower's chute. Serrated blades make cutting through ice and hard snow easier.

Step6

Ask about warranties, what is covered and for how long. Ask about replacement parts and where to get them during and after the warranty period.

Step7

Decide on a price range. This allows you to easily identify which snowblowers are affordable.

Tips & Warnings

All snowblowers should have a parking brake or some other means of safety control.
When it comes to power, more is better.
Avoid buying more machine than you can handle safely.