Whether you want to clear your driveway or garage, there are several types of snow blowers available. There are gas-powered models, and electric models. Electric snow blowers are environmentally-friendly and require virtually no maintenance. They are also powerful, and quiet – the noise is approximately equal to a vacuum cleaner. However, they are often more expensive than other models. To make sure you get the best small snow blower for your needs, read on to learn about some of the main factors to consider.
If you live in an area where it snows every year, you probably have a couple of different options to choose from. A single-stage snow blower will be a bit smaller than its electric-powered competition. However, it offers extra power and is capable of throwing light snow up to 25 feet. Two-stage models have augers that hover a few inches above the ground, and a chopper at the front helps break up bigger chunks of snow.
A cordless model will allow you to use it early in the morning or at night, and features four LED lights. Another advantage of this machine is that it runs quietly, making it convenient for the homeowner and office worker. The chute and auger housing spacing can also be adjusted, and the chute rotator is remotely controlled. A few additional features of this model include a fold-down handle, a chute, and a 200-degree chute for more control.
Despite the many features that a good snow blower should have, some people don’t actually need a powerful machine. The driveway is much smaller than the walkway, and it may only get a couple of inches of snow a year. In such a case, buying the best small snow blower for your needs can be a simple process. Check out these top-rated small snow blowers to make your winter work easier.
A gas-powered machine will deal with most types of snow with ease. In heavy snow, the engine will be protected by a 12-inch steel notched auger. The snow blower can also handle the toughest terrain and won’t damage its blades. Its 15-inch wide snow chute is adjustable. It can clear a space up to 20 inches and even be pulled backward. A heavy-duty two-stage machine will require power steering, and most of them won’t have this option.
Another contender is the Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE. This machine can handle snow up to six inches and has a self-propel system. The Toro SnowMaster 824 QXE has an inverted funnel housing and can be used with gravel driveways. It is also a great option for regular 6 to one-foot snowfalls. A great combination of features, low cost, and reliability make this one a great choice.
One of the best features of a low-priced snow blower is the ability to use two headlights. Most blowers only have one, so having two headlights gives you better visibility. Two-stage snow blowers with two headlights also make the process of clearing snow easier. However, these blowers are not equipped with 16-inch tires, so they’ll struggle to clear snow in heavier conditions.
Another important feature to consider is the clearing width. If you’re clearing a sidewalk or driveway, a 24-inch wide unit can clear up to 42 inches in one pass. A larger unit is better suited for a wide driveway or common area. You should also consider a model that has a track-drive system, as these will be more effective when dealing with hard-packed snow. Listed below are some of the best small snow blowers available in 2015.
Single-stage electric models are similar to gas-powered models. Their only difference is that they are battery-powered. Electric single-stage models do not require fuel, and their range is between five and ten feet. Electric single-stage blowers are better for flat, paved surfaces, but their low output and short runtime limit make them unsuitable for larger properties. You can even use a cordless electric snow blower on a large flat space, but keep in mind that they will not be as efficient.
When looking for the best small snow blowers for your home, it’s important to consider how much snow you need to clear each day. In addition to the throwing distance, check the snow blower’s speed. The higher the speed, the better, as faster clearing will be. If your snow removal needs are not urgent, you can always consider buying a cordless model with a longer warranty. This will save you time and money, while providing a hassle-free option for your snow-removal needs.