How to Buy a Good Snow Thrower

A good snow thrower puts an end to straining your back with a shovel. The machine also significantly cuts the amount of time needed to remove snow from your driveway and sidewalks. The best snow thrower for one person might not work well for someone else, however. Take the time to assess your snow thrower needs to make the best purchase. Once you decide on a snow thrower, you might actually hope for snow in the forecast.

Instructions

1. Set your upper price limit for the snow thrower. You don't need the most expensive model to get a quality snow thrower. Decide what you can afford and stick to it.

2. Evaluate the snow patterns in a typical winter in your area. Think about how often it snows, how many months of the year you receive snow and how much snow you receive each time. If you receive lots of snow, you might want to consider a heavy-duty model.

3. Decide between a single-stage snow thrower and a two-stage snow thrower. Two-stage models throw the snow farther away and work better on deeper snow. They are also self-propelled, while single-stage models need to be pushed. The auger on the single-stage does help pull it along, however.

4. Choose between a gas or electric model. Single-stage snow blowers are the only possibility if you want an electric machine. You can also get them in gas-powered versions. Two-stage models operated on gasoline only.

5. Compare the size of the motors. Larger motors make the snow-throwing job easier but also add to the cost of the machine.

6. Choose the clearing width. Single-stage models typically range from 12 inches to 22 inches, while two-stage throwers are generally 20 inches to 36 inches. The wider the clearing path, the faster you can complete the job because you'll need fewer passes.

7. Note the number of forward and backward speeds on the snow throwers. More speeds give you increased flexibility.

8. Decide if you want a pull-cord starter or an electric start. You'll pay more for the electric start, but it will make the snow-removal task easier than trying to pull a cord when you're bundled in winter clothes.

9. Look for a snow thrower model that allows adjustment of the discharge chute while the machine is in use. This allows you to easily control where the snow is thrown, reducing the chances of covering up an area you just cleared.

10. Decide if you want a light on your snow thrower. With short winter days, this option makes early-morning or late-evening snow throwing easier.

References

• Yardener.com: Choosing Snow Throwers
• Lowe's: Snow Thrower Buying Guide