5 Snow Blower Myths — BUSTED!

As the white stuff starts falling again and you rev up your snow blower this season, learn the truth about some common misconceptions regarding snow removal.

Myth 1: It’s Okay To Unclog Your Snow Blower While It’s Running

Busted! Since 2003, more than 90,000 people have been injured due to snowblower-related injuries according to Consumer Product Safety Commission injury data.

Don’t risk injury to your fingers or hands. To unclog the snowblower chute and/or housing safely, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the snowblower. If you have a gas-powered snowblower, shut off the engine and allow the engine to cool. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. For an electric snowblower, remove the safety key.
2. Wait for moving parts to stop. Allow all moving parts to come to a complete stop. This includes the impeller and auger.
3. Use a snow removal tool. Use a snow removal tool or a sturdy stick to carefully break up and remove the clogged snow. Avoid using your hands because sharp parts or debris can cause cuts.
4. Inspect the parts. Check the chute, auger and impeller for any foreign objects such as branches or rocks that could be causing clogs. Remove any obstructions.
5. Restart the snowblower. After clearing the clog and making sure all tools are removed, reconnect the spark plug wire or insert the safety key and start the snowblower to ensure everything is working properly.

To prevent future clogs, keep an eye on snow conditions. Avoid trying to clear extremely heavy or wet snow, as this can increase the likelihood of clogs.

To further prevent clogs, coat the snowblower housing and chute with SNOW-JET, a non-stick polymer spray for snowblowers. SNOW-JET eliminates snow buildup in the chute and auger housing so you don't have to stop to clear snow from the snowblower, saving time and fuel. SNOW-JET also reduces friction, so snow blows efficiently through the housing and chute.

Yearly professional maintenance of your snowblower will also help prevent clogs. Schedule Sears Home Services Snowblower Maintenance to keep your machine in top shape so it performs flawlessly. During professional maintenance, the Sears Home Services technician will:

• Checking the ignition, starter systems, carburetor, throttle and choke controls.
• Cleaning the engine cooling fins.
• Changing the oil.
• Lubricating moving parts.
• Inspecting and adjusting drive belts and chains.

Keep your snowblower running smoothly all season long by having it tuned up in the fall or early winter.

Myth 2: You Can Unclog Your Snowblower With Your Hands as Long as It’s Off

Busted! Snowblowers come with a clearing tool – though a sturdy stick or long ice scraper will do the job, too. Don’t ever reach into a clogged snowblower chute or housing with your hands – even with the snowblower shut off. Sharp parts or foreign objects in the clogged snow can cut your hands.

Myth 3: All Snowblowers Are Created Equal

Busted! You can choose from single-stage, dual-stage and three-stage models designed for various snow-clearing needs. You can also choose gas-powered or battery-powered models. The size and type of the snowblower that’s right for you depends on your property size, typical snow accumulation and terrain.

Myth 4: Smaller Snowblowers Are Easier To Handle

Busted! Big snowblowers have engine-driven wheels, so steering is so easy it can seem like they’re self-propelled. Smaller models often aren’t self-propelled, so you have to do the pushing yourself.

Choose the size and type of snowblower that’s right for your needs.

Myth 5: Your Snowblower Can Be Stored Outside

Busted! Storing your snow blower outside can cause gas lines to freeze – making it hard to start. Store your snowblower inside a shed or garage to keep it out of harsh elements.

Remember, keeping your snowblower in top shape with proper care and maintenance will help prevent clogs and your machine will run smoothly all season long. When something goes wrong with your snowblower, schedule service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to fix the problem.