Snow Blowers: Everything You Need to Know

Winter brings snow, and while it’s beautiful, it can create extra work. A snow blower is a helpful tool to clear your driveway, sidewalk, or yard quickly and with less effort than a shovel. The right snow blower can save you time and make winter chores easier.

This guide will introduce the basics of snow blowers so you can pick the best one for your needs. We’ll explain the types of snow blowers, the important features to look for, and how to find one that fits your budget. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to snow blowers or upgrading to something more powerful. Read on to find useful tips and snow blower recommendations for winter preparation. With the right tools, you can spend less time outside in the cold and enjoy the season more!

Types of Snow Blowers

When winter hits hard, having the right snow blower makes clearing snow quicker and easier. There are several types of snow blowers, each designed for different needs. Whether you’re clearing a small path or tackling a long, snow-covered driveway, it’s important to know your options. Fleet Farm offers everything needed for snow removal, and choosing the right snow blower is the first step to a smooth winter.

Single Stage Snow Blowers: Features, Uses, and Best Conditions

Single stage snow blowers are simple and lightweight. They use a single auger to pull in snow and throw it out through a chute in one step. These machines are easy to use and work well for smaller spaces.

Features:

• Small and easy to store: Single stage blowers don’t take up much room and are great for homes with limited storage space.
• Gas or electric models: Gas models are powerful and mobile, while electric models are quieter and easier to maintain.
• Beginner-friendly controls: Most single stage blowers have simple buttons or pull-starts, making them easy for anyone to operate.

Best Conditions:

• Light snowfalls: These blowers can handle snow up to 8 inches deep.
• Paved surfaces: They work best on smooth areas like driveways and sidewalks since their auger touches the ground.

However, single stage blowers aren’t ideal for heavy, wet snow or gravel driveways.

Two-Stage Snow Blowers: Features, Uses, and Best Conditions

Two-stage snow blowers are more powerful and versatile. They use an auger to collect snow and an impeller to throw it farther, making them better for larger spaces or deeper snow.

Features:

• Self-propelled design: These machines move forward independently, so you don’t have to push hard, even through thick snow.
• Wide clearing paths: With bigger clearing widths and taller intakes, they handle larger areas faster.
• Gravel-friendly: Since the auger doesn’t scrape the ground, a scraper and shoes can be adjusted to clear gravel driveways without throwing rocks.

Best Conditions:

• Moderate to heavy snowfalls: Great for snow 8–12 inches deep, including wet or packed snow.
• Larger spaces: Perfect for homes with long driveways or wide areas to clear.

Two-stage blowers are a reliable choice for homeowners in areas with heavy snowfall.

Three-Stage Snow Blowers: Features, Uses, and Best Conditions

Three-stage snow blowers help break up large chunks of compacted snow. They add an accelerator to break up snow and ice before throwing it. These machines are built for the toughest winter conditions.

Features:

• Heavy-duty performance: The added accelerator helps them easily handle icy, packed, or deep snow.
• Extra-wide paths: These machines clear large areas in less time, making them efficient for big jobs.
• Durable construction: They’re designed to last through harsh winters. They may also come with extras like heated grips or headlights.

Best Conditions:

• Extreme snowfalls: They handle snow over 12 inches deep, even in wet or icy conditions.
• Large properties: Perfect for big driveways, parking lots, or areas with lots of snow to manage.

Key Differences Between 1-Stage, 2-Stage, and 3-Stage Models

Each type of snow blower has its strengths, so understanding the differences is important:

• Power: Single stage blowers work for light snow. Two-stage models handle moderate to heavy snow. Three-stage machines are for the most challenging jobs.
• Surfaces: Single stage blowers are best for paved driveways, while multi-stage models work on gravel or uneven ground.
• Price and size: Single stage blowers are affordable and compact. Multi-stage models may be larger and more expensive but are often packed with features.
• Snow depth: A single stage blower is enough for light snow. For deep or icy snow, go for a multi-stage blower.

Understanding these types will let you choose the best snow blower. Remember, Fleet Farm has everything needed for snow removal to keep your home clear and safe all winter.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Snow Blower

Selecting the right snow blower means thinking about your property. In particular, consider typical snowfall and how much effort you want to spend on winter chores. Below, we’ll explore key features and considerations to help you find the perfect match for your needs.

Electric vs. Gas Snow Blowers

Choosing between electric and gas-powered snow blowers is one of your most important decisions. Each has strengths and drawbacks.

Pros and Cons of Gas-Powered Models

Pros:

• Powerful performance: Gas blowers are ideal for clearing heavy, wet snow and deep drifts.
• Large clearing capacity: They’re built for larger areas, with wide clearing paths and tall intake heights.
• No cords required: Gas blowers can go anywhere on your property without needing an electrical outlet.

Cons:

• Maintenance needs: They require regular upkeep, like refueling, oil changes, and spark plug replacements.
• Heavier and louder: Gas models are bulkier and make more noise, which can be a drawback in residential areas.
• Cost over time: Gas snow blowers may cost less in the initial investment but maintenance and fuel will cost more over the life of the unit.

Pros and Cons of Electric Models

Pros:

• Lightweight and quiet: Electric snow blowers are easier to maneuver and quieter than gas models.
• Low maintenance: They don’t need fuel or oil changes, making them a hassle-free choice for beginners.
• Environmentally friendly: Electric blowers produce no emissions, which is better for the environment.

Cons:

• Limited range: Corded models are tied to an outlet, and battery-powered ones have a shorter runtime.
• Battery Maintenance: While a battery can be used outside in short periods of time.  Consistent exposure to sub-freezing temperatures will drain the life of the battery.  Make sure to bring in batteries in the winter when not in use to keep battery life at a maximum..

Are Electric Snow Blowers Powerful Enough? Electric snow blowers can be very effective for light to moderate snowfalls and small areas. However, a gas-powered model might be better if you face frequent or heavy snowstorms.

Snowblower Size: How to Determine What You Need

Choosing the right size snow blower depends on the area you need to clear and your local weather.

Size of Your Property:

• Small properties: A compact single stage snow blower is ideal for patios, sidewalks, and short driveways.
• Medium properties: Two-stage models provide the right balance of power and size for standard suburban lots.
• Large properties: If you have a long driveway or extensive space to clear, a two- or three-stage snow blower is a better choice.

Average Snowfall in Your Area:

• Light snow (under 8 inches): A single stage blower works well for lighter snowfalls.
• Moderate snow (8–12 inches): Two-stage models handle deeper snow and heavier conditions.
• Heavy, compacted snow (over 12 inches): Three-stage blowers are built for deep, wet, or icy snow and are worth the investment in snowy regions.

Ease of Use

A snow blower should make clearing snow easier, not harder. Look for models with features that reduce effort and improve comfort.

Which Snow Blowers Are Easiest to Handle? Electric snow blowers are generally lighter and simpler to operate than gas models, making them a good choice for beginners. Self-propelled gas blowers are also easy to maneuver since they move forward independently.

Features That Improve Usability:

• Self-propelled systems: These help move the snow blower without requiring much physical effort.
• Headlights: Great for clearing snow in the early morning or evening.
• Airless tires: These tires won’t go flat, giving you reliable traction.
• Electric starters: Skip the hassle of pull cords with a push-button start.
• Adjustable handles: Customizable handles make the blower more comfortable for people of different heights.

Regular maintenance also keeps your snow blower running smoothly. Be sure to order snow blower parts and accessories to replace worn-out components and keep it in top shape.

Chute Rotation and Pitch

A snow blower’s chute controls where the snow goes. Adjustable chute rotation and pitch allow you to direct snow easily. These features help avoid buildup in inconvenient places. This is especially useful for areas with obstacles like cars or garden beds.

Performance for Different Snow Types

What Type of Snow Blower Is Best for Heavy, Wet Snow? 

Multi-stage models are best for heavy, wet snow because they can throw it without clogging.

Snow Blower vs. Snow Plow

Selecting between a snow blower and a snow plow depends on your property size, typical snowfall, and how you prefer to clear snow. Both have benefits, but their uses are quite different.

A snow plow is excellent for clearing large areas quickly. It’s especially useful for long driveways, parking lots, or private roads where speed and efficiency are key. Snow plows attach to vehicles like trucks or ATVs, making them easy to operate. However, they tend to leave a thin layer of snow behind and need space to push snow aside. They also require you to own or rent a compatible vehicle.

Snow blowers, on the other hand, offer more precision. They remove snow completely and are great for smaller areas like walkways, patios, and standard driveways. Snow blowers don’t need a vehicle to operate; they’re easier to store. While they may take longer to clear large spaces, their ability to handle tight spots and curved paths makes them more versatile.

A plow is the better option if you have a large property or frequently deal with heavy, widespread snow. A snow blower is the way to go for smaller spaces, more control, or if you don’t own a vehicle.

Other Winter Weather Needs

In addition to a reliable snow blower, a few other tools and supplies can make winter maintenance easier and more effective. Preparing for the season means preparing for snow, ice, and everything in between.

• Salt and ice melt: Keeping pathways safe from ice is just as important as clearing snow. Be sure to order salt and ice melt to prevent slips and falls on driveways and walkways.
• Ice scrapers: For cars, an ice scraper is essential to clear windshields and windows quickly. You can shop ice scrapers to find one that’s comfortable to use and durable enough for tough ice.
• Snow shovels: Even with a snow blower, having a reliable shovel for tight spaces or light touch-ups is handy. Fleet Farm makes it easy to buy a new snow shovel to complete your winter toolkit.

These essential items will prepare you to tackle whatever winter throws your way, ensuring a safer and more manageable season.

Find the Best Snow Blower for Your Winter Needs

Don’t let snowstorms slow you down this season. A quality snow blower can save time and effort, helping you maintain a clear and safe property. Fleet Farm offers a variety of models to fit every need and budget so you can handle winter with confidence. Be sure to shop our snow blowers today for a hassle-free winter!