If you own a home, snow blowing is usually the best option to clear the driveway, walkways and paths. You can remove the majority of the wintry mix with the machine and finish up with a shovel as necessary. In most situations, it will handle 95% of your clean-up.
As I always say, preparation is key. You can take certain steps to make the job easy on yourself or you can do it the hard way. I prefer to make it easy on myself. You will find job you do is better and you don't waste precious time.
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Not all machines are right for you. You should look at several factors when determining which snow blower will suit your needs best.
By knowing the answers to these few simple questions, you can determine which machine will best fit your needs.
There are four types of machines available:
More eco-friendly than it's gas counterparts.
Great for small areas that have flat surfaces. Also, good for walkways and decks. Best for snowfalls of 6 to 10 inches depending on your machine. Throws the snow 15-18 inches.
This machine is not good for gravel surfaces because the auger (which gathers the snow) touches the surface it is cleaning.
Typically the machine itself is less expensive and it requires little or no maintenance. A middle of the road machine can cost $359 (corded) to $500 (cordless). If you buy the corded model, make sure the cord is not sold separate from the machine.
It is lighter which means it is easier to maneuver. Both corded and cordless versions are available. The corded versions, you are limited by the length of the cord. If you use an extension cord, be sure it is made for outside use.
The machine is quiet, unlike it's gas powered rivals.
Requires very little room to store the machine.
Great for mid-sized driveways that have flat surfaces. Best for snowfalls of less than 10 inches. Throws snow 20 - 22 inches.
This machine is not good for gravel surfaces because the auger (which gathers the snow) touches the surface it is cleaning.
The machine is more expensive than it's electric counterpart. A middle of the road machine will cost around $400 - $500.
You must use gas and oil to run the machine. Maintenance of the machine is also required.
There are old school 2 cycle machines where you have to mix the right amount of gas and oil. Most are 4 cycle machines where all you do is fill the tank with gas and put oil directly into the engine.
It is heavier than it's electric rival and tends to be noisy.
Can purchase models that are either electric start or have a pull cord.
There are several chute options. Manual chute where you walk around the machine to change the direction of the chute. There are also models with a lever you move backwards and forwards to move the chute. Lastly, there are models with a "quick shoot" which have a trigger you slide up and down to move the direction of the chute.
Great for longer and wide driveways. Good for snowfalls in excess of 8 inches. Throws the snow 28 - 30 inches. This is a heavy duty machine that can also break-up and remove ice from the surface of the ground.
Good on gravel driveways because the auger doesn't actually make contact with the ground. The Auger gathers the snow and the Impeller throws the snow.
The machine is more expensive than it's electric counterpart. A middle of the road machine can cost $599 - $1,200.
You must use gas and oil to run the machine. Maintenance of the machine is also required.
Typically has 4 speeds and always has an electric start. A "trigger drive release" for the chute makes the machine easier to maneuver.
The majority have halogen headlights. Make clearing your driveway and sidewalks at night and early in the morning easier.
There are two different chute styles. Crank controlled chute which allows you to manually adjust the chute right or left from behind the machine. Lever controlled chute gives you more control over the direction the snow is thrown and requires less physical effort on your part.
Interlocking controls allows you to lock down one of the 2 control handles which frees one of your hands to adjust the speed of the machine or control the discharge chute while the machine is moving.
3 Stage machines are available. These machines have 2 heavy duty steel augers. This machine offers increased efficiency and moves 50% more snow than it's 2 stage counterpart.
Heavy duty clearing so great for large areas and sloping driveways.
Quick snow, ice & slush removal.
Typically 57 inches wide and fits on a tractor or a lawn tractor.
Can be purchased with or without an electric lift.
Expensive - The snow blower is an attachment for your tractor or lawn tractor. The snow blower and the tractor / lawn tractor are sold separately. A middle of the road attachment will cost you between $1,250 and $1,500. Be sure the model you purchase will mount on the brand tractor / lawn tractor you own.
Snow thrown in a 25 - 40 foot parabolic arc.
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It has been a very cold and snow winter in the Chicago Area. I personally use a 2 stage snow blower. It is a Husqvarna that was approximately $1,100 about 5 years ago.
If you are buying a new snow blower and don't want to mess around with putting it together, consider this....... For a nominal fee, your local hardware store or home remodeling store may put the machine together for you before the machine leaves the store. If you opt for this convenience, be prepared to get the assembled machine home from the store.