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Table of Contents

Assessing Your Snow Clearing Requirements

Different Types of Snow Blowers

Important Features and Factors to Consider

  1. Resource Center
  2. Repair

How to Find the Right Snow Blower

Updated Mar. 13, 2024Lyle Weischwill5 min read
Snow blower tips to get the one that's right for you

When winter knocks and snow starts accumulating, a dependable snow blower becomes your new best friend. But the variety of choices can be overwhelming - how do you select the right one tailored to your needs? At Sears Home Services, we recognize the significance of finding the perfect snow blower to keep the snow drifts at bay. This guide will walk you through the crucial factors to consider while hunting for a snow blower that perfectly fits your needs.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Choosing the right snow blower involves assessing your specific snow clearing needs and understanding the differences between single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage models.
  • Features such as power steering, adjustable chute rotation, and electric starters can significantly enhance the usability and efficiency of your snow blower.
  • Regular maintenance and timely repair can prolong the life and improve the performance of your snow blower.

If you weren’t as prepared for winter storms as you’d hoped to be, it’s never too late to start thinking about next year’s snow blower purchase. But before heading out to the store, do your research to arm yourself with the right information so you get the product that best fits your needs.

3 types of snow blowers infographic

Assessing Your Snow Clearing Requirements

When it comes to finding the perfect snow blower for your needs, it's important to know your specific requirements. Understanding the size and type of area you need to clean is the first step towards making the right choice.

Evaluating the size and type of area to be cleaned will help in determining the power and size of the snow blower you require. For a small driveway or walkway, a single-stage snow blower may be adequate. But for a larger area or areas of rock or loose stones, a dual-stage or three-stage snow blower is more appropriate.

Considering the average snowfall and depth in your locality is also important. If you reside in a region with frequent heavy snowfall, a snow blower with a higher clearing capacity and throwing distance would be ideal. If your area experiences lighter snowfall, a snow blower with a lower capacity might suffice.

How frequently it snows is another thing to consider. If you live in an area with consistent snowfall throughout the winter season, investing in a reliable and robust snow blower is advised. However, if you only experience occasional snowstorms, a more budget-friendly option may work.

Different Types of Snow Blowers

When it comes to finding the ideal snow blower for you, understanding the different types available in the market is essential. Snow blowers are primarily available in three types: single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage. Each type has its own unique features and advantages.

Single-Stage Snow Blower

A single-stage snow blower is designed for light to moderate snowfall. It uses an auger to collect and discharge the snow in one motion. This type of snow blower can handle on about 9 inches of snow and is suitable for small to medium-sized driveways and walkways. It is easy to maneuver and compact in size, making it ideal for residential use.

Dual-Stage Snow Blower

A dual-stage snow blower, sometimes called a two-stage snow blower, is more powerful and suitable for heavier snowfall and larger areas. It uses an auger to collect the snow and an impeller to blow it out through a chute. This type of snow blower can handle deep snow and icy conditions with ease. It is perfect for clearing large driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots.

Three-stage Snow Blower

The three-stage snow blower is the most advanced and powerful option. It uses an auger to collect the snow, an impeller to break it down further, and an accelerator to throw it out through the chute. This type of snow blower can handle heavy, wet snow and ice with exceptional efficiency. It is perfect for commercial use or clearing snow from large areas.

Each type of snow blower has its benefits and drawbacks. Single-stage snow blowers are lightweight and easy to handle, but they may struggle with heavy snow. Two-stage snow blowers offer more power and clearing capacity, but they are larger and may require more storage space. Three-stage snow blowers are the most powerful, but they are also the most expensive.

Important Features and Factors to Consider

When hunting for the ideal snow blower for your needs, there are several key features and factors to consider. These elements can significantly influence the performance and usability of the machine, ensuring that you can efficiently tackle the winter snowfall.

One important feature to consider is power steering. While not essential for every snow clearing task, power steering can greatly enhance maneuverability, especially when dealing with heavy and wet snow. It allows you to easily navigate around obstacles and make sharp turns, reducing strain on your arms and back.

Another important feature is chute rotation and pitch. The ability to control the direction and angle at which the snow is discharged can significantly impact the effectiveness of your snow blower. Being able to adjust the chute rotation and pitch ensures that you can direct the snow exactly where you want it, avoiding areas you don't want to clear.

Assessing the usefulness of certain features like headlights, airless tires, and electric starters is a must. Headlights are especially helpful for early morning or late evening snow clearing, providing better visibility. Airless tires eliminate the risk of flats, so your snow blower's wheels are always ready for use. Electric starters offer convenience, letting you start the machine without the hassle of pulling a cord.

Selecting the right snow blower is about understanding your needs and matching them with the right features and capabilities. Whether you require a single-stage, two-stage, or three-stage machine, making an informed decision will ensure that your winter snow clearing tasks are as effortless as possible. Remember, the key to longevity and optimal performance of your snow blower lies in regular maintenance and timely repairs.

Should you encounter any issues with your snow blower or simply wish to ensure it remains in peak condition, Sears Home Services is here to assist you. Our experienced professionals are well-equipped to address any repair or maintenance needs, helping you extend the lifespan of your machine. Don't get stuck with malfunctioning snow blower; schedule a service appointment with Sears Home Services today and experience peace of mind knowing your snow blower is in capable hands.

Schedule your snowblower repair now!

Our technicians have the training and experience to handle any snowblower issue quickly, ensuring your equipment is up and running in no time.

Call (213) 596-2538 or schedule online now.

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