SnowblowerParts.org

Archive for October, 2011

With Fall here, now is the time to have your snowblower ready for the season. Some parts of the country are already encountering winter-like conditions. Recently, the Denver, Colorado area received several inches of snow with some areas having accumulations of nearly one foot. And it is only in October. With this in mind, we provide tips on buying a snowblower to help you prepare for the season.

Shop Now For Snowblowers

If you do not already own a snowblower, now is a great time to consider purchasing one before the heavy snows arrive. There are some benefits to snow shoveling. It can be a good way to get out into the elements and get some exercise. But the drawbacks are the amount of time it takes, the frigid air you may endure, and the risk of an injury.

Wouldn’t it be preferable to have a snowblower that efficiently and effectively removes all the snow from a desired area? You can clear off your paths, driveway, deck, or patio in a matter of minutes and keep snow from accumulating.

Snowblower Prices and Considerations

Snowblower start at about $100 new and go up from there depending on the size, features, and capabilities. These machines may also be known as snow throwers. The more expensive models have two-stages, in which the snow is thrown in a desired direction by an impeller.

Buyers can choose from gas or electric models. Gas models have the benefit of being able to handle a larger area and aren’t restricted by a cord. Electric snow blowers tend to cheaper, quieter, lighter, and are easier to maintain. Look for a model with a push button start to simplify operation.

Snowblower Operation and Maintenance

Snowblowers work by using augers to graze the ground, picking up snow and ice from the surface. Power is measured in cc’s for gas engines and amps for electric motors. The higher the number, the more powerful the model is.

Check how wide a path the snowblower can clear. It is a good idea to know how wide your walkways and driveways are so you buy a snowblower that best fits you needs. Also check how wide your driveway is as you want to purchase a machine that can throw snow at least half the width of your driveway for greater efficiency.

Whichever machine you buy, snowblowers need to be well-maintained and have sharp augers to have the maximum effectiveness. When checking or performing maintenance on a snowblower, it is important to use extreme caution and ensure the machine is turned off (and unplugged if it is an electric model). Safety is a top priority as these machines have a lot of sharp, fast moving parts and each year dozens of people sustain serious injuries due to snowblowers.

Which Model To Buy

When buying a snowblower, take into account the amount of snow your area receives. It is a good idea to be prepared for the worst to ensure your machine’s capacity is not overburdened by a storm. Some of the leading brands include Toro, Stihl, Honda, Ariens, and Craftsman. Generally you will get what you pay for so don’t cut corners on cost and capacity. Also be sure to get the replacement parts you need in advance so you are ready for the season.