5 Snow Blower Myths — BUSTED!
Many homeowners have misconceptions about how to use a snowblower safely and effectively. Myths about snowblower safety and maintenance can lead to injuries and damage. Knowing the facts, from safely clearing a clogged chute to properly storing the machine, helps keep your snowblower—and your fingers—intact.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Always turn off your snowblower and use a tool to clear clogs.
- Store your snowblower indoors to prevent freezing and promote easy starting.
- Regular maintenance and safe usage keep your snowblower running efficiently.
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. Understanding snowblower safety is imperative for anyone learning how to use a snowblower. To unclog the snowblower chute and housing safely, follow these steps:
-
Turn off the snowblower. If you have a gas-powered snowblower, shut off the engine and allow it to cool. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. For an electric snowblower, remove the safety key.
-
Wait for moving parts to stop. Allow all moving parts to come to a complete stop. This includes the impeller and auger.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 confirm 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, allowing snow to blow efficiently through the housing and chute.
Regular maintenance is key to snowblower safety and optimal performance. Yearly professional maintenance will also help prevent clogs. Schedule Sears Home Services Snowblower Maintenance to keep your machine in top shape. During professional maintenance, the Sears Home Services technician will:
- Check the ignition, starter systems, carburetor, throttle, and choke controls.
- Clean the engine cooling fins.
- Change the oil.
- Lubricate moving parts.
- Inspect and adjust drive belts and chains.
Keeping your snowblower running smoothly all season long starts with a tune-up in the fall or early winter.
Myth 2: You Can Unclog Your Snow Blower With Your Hands as Long as It’s Off
Busted! Snowblowers come with a clearing tool, but a sturdy stick or long ice scraper will also work. Don’t ever reach into a clogged snowblower chute, housing, or near the snowblower auger or impeller with your hands, even when the snowblower is off. Sharp parts or foreign objects caught in the clogged snow can cause serious cuts.
Myth 3: All Snowblowers Are Created Equal
Busted! You can choose from single-stage, dual-stage and three-stage snowblowers 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 Snow Blower Can Be Stored Outside
Busted! Storing your snowblower outside can cause gas lines to freeze, making it difficult to start. Always store your snowblower inside a shed or garage to protect it from harsh elements and ensure smooth operation.
A large part of learning how to use a snowblower effectively involves following snowblower safety rules, proper care, and yearly professional maintenance. If something does go wrong with your snowblower, schedule service, and a Sears Home Services technician will come to your home to fix the problem.
Schedule snowblower maintenance now!
Ensure your snowblower is ready for winter with our thorough maintenance service, designed to keep it running smoothly and efficiently through the harshest weather conditions.
Was this information helpful?
Schedule snowblower maintenance now!
Maintain Snowblower Resources
Get your snowblower ready for winter in 2024 with Sears Home Services.
These essential maintenance tips will ensure your snow blower is ready to tackle the snow.
Understanding the different types and features is key to finding the best snow blower for your winter needs.
Prepare your snow blower for the winter battle against snow-covered driveways and pathways with these essential repair tips.
Glossary Terms
A snowblower auger is the spiral-shaped blade mechanism at the front of a snowblower that cuts through snow, breaking it up and directing it towards the chute for expulsion, playing a crucial role in the snow clearing process.
Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.
A garbage disposal is a device installed under a kitchen sink that shreds food waste into small enough pieces to pass through plumbing, facilitating an easier and more hygienic kitchen waste management process.
A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.
Common Appliance Symptoms
The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't stop filling are a clogged water valve, a bad water-level pressure switch, or a malfunctioning electronic control board.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't spin or drain are a seized gearcase, a broken motor, or a failed door switch.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't turn off are a malfunctioning electronic control board, broken motor or a jammed door lock assembly.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't start cycle are a malfunctioning electronic control board, jammed door lock assembly or a faulty user interface.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer vibrates are a damaged suspension rod, malfunctioning electronic control board or a dead fan.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer is experiencing the rinse cycle not working are a broken lid switch, a bad water-level pressure switch, or a malfunctioning electronic control board.