Here’s a Guide to Help You Make the Best Purchase This Season
With Ontario’s winters becoming more and more blistery, we are only in the beginning stages of what Environment Canada has predicted will be a long and brutal season. Ease the pain of late-night and early-morning shovelling with a snowblower and our top 10 list of mistakes to avoid when purchasing one.
Let’s face it, shovelling and scraping a driveway in the early hours of the morning when you have just woken up and are rushed to get to work, is not a fun task. Ontario’s winters can be brutal. Especially in a snow-belt.
In this article, we explore the top mistakes to avoid when purchasing a snowblower and equip you with buying tips to help you select the right machine for the job.
Read More: SINGLE-STAGE VS. DUAL-STAGE SNOW BLOWERS: WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU?
Why Should You Invest in a Snowblower
There are many factors to consider when purchasing a snowblower and it is important to do your research before making a decision. It really does boil down to personal preference and your weather conditions. But one thing is for certain, you don’t want to get caught in a storm with a machine that is unable to handle the job. Here are a few things to consider.
Cost
Considering the amount of time and grief you would experience without one, a snowblower is surprisingly an inexpensive investment. There are different cost options depending on what your needs are and many different options to choose from.
Convenience
Clearing snow with a shovel takes a significant amount of time. Especially after a snowstorm. Snowblowers can make winter a breeze. Clearing snow does not have to be a strenuous activity.
Reduced Physical Strain
Shovelling can lead to back injuries and more, which can be debilitating. A snowblower requires minimal effort and can save your body from injury.
Different Models to Consider
There are a few different types of models to consider when choosing a snowblower. It is all dependent on the particulars of what you are looking for. Here, we explore the different models to consider for your purchase.
Single-Stage Gas
Single-stage gas-powered machines are the simplest of the design options and come at a lower cost. All the power comes from a high-speed corkscrew auger which spins in the front of the machine, breaking up sow and launching it through the discharge chute. The benefits of single-stage gas units are that they are lightweight, small and easy to maneuver in tight spaces. These units are best for those who get light to moderate snow with smaller paved driveways and sidewalks with minimal sloping.
Two-Stage Gas
Using two devices to remove snow, this corkscrew-shaped slow-turning auger is a larger, bigger and heavier model and can chew through compacted ice and snow much more efficiently than a single-stage gas-powered unit. Despite its size, maneuverability is surprisingly easy. They are best for those in snowy climates with medium- to large-sized driveways. They are costlier, but certainly worth the investment if you are in a heavy snow zone.
Single-Stage Electric
Suited for lighter snow removal, an electric model is a great choice for smaller jobs and are far less pricey than their counterparts. They are lightweight, require very little maintenance and simply need a weather-insulated extension cord for operation. They are great for sidewalks, single-car driveways and decks and can fit through much more narrow areas, unlike the bigger units.
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Snowblower
There are many choices available when considering a snowblower, which can sometimes cause confusion around which option is best for you. Here, we explore the top things to consider when making your choice.
Too Large or Too Small
Selecting the right snowblower size for your climate and parameters is crucial to ensuring that what you buy will be able to withstand the load. Additionally, it may not be necessary for you to go with a heavy-duty model if you simply do not have much snow or a large area to cover, saving you money. There are typically 3 types of machines to choose from. Ensure you are selecting the right size unit for the job.
Suitability for Steep Terrains
Most snowblowers are wheeled, but some have tracks in the place of wheels, which are far better suited for hills and steep driveways. Tracks can dramatically boost traction and save you a lot of time, effort and struggle.
Suitability for Heavy and Wet Snow
It is important to consider the average depth of snow you receive and its consistency. Heavy and wet snow can make it difficult for a smaller single-stage or electric blower to get through. Consider these elements when selecting a snowblower and speak to your professional for the best advice.
Performance and Handling – Snow Buildup
Purchasing a unit that is unable to withstand heavy snowdrifts or buildup can result in your machine being unable to manage the job, resulting in frustration and your snowblower being unable to weather the storm. Ensure that you purchase a unit that is best equipped to handle the elements in your area.
Weight and Maneuverability
There are many factors as to why you may prefer a lighter unit that will be easier to maneuver. Perhaps you are maintaining a smaller area with narrow pockets to get around. Maybe you simply do not or cannot manage the weight of a heavier snowblower due to an injury etc.…There are different weight options to select from and your local professional can assist you with choosing the right machine.
The Takeaway
As you can see, selecting the right snowblower is far more complex than one might think. There are many factors to consider, which directly impact years of dependability and maintenance. Ensure that you come equipped with the information your local professional needs in order to recommend the best machine for your personal needs.