Electric Snow Blowers

Electric throwers are a good value for light snows

Electric snow blowers are quieter, less expensive and more lightweight than their gas-powered counterparts. You must contend with an electrical power cord while clearing snow, but not with the regular engine maintenance required with a two-stage gas blower. Electric blowers are less powerful than gas-powered machines, however, and are only appropriate for clearing small areas such as flat, paved sidewalks and short driveways. They're best suited for snowfalls of 4 inches or less, since they tend to get bogged down in deep or compacted snow. If you experience harsh winters, a gas-powered snow blower would be a better choice.

Power shovels are the least expensive electric snow blowers. These feature a small motor and auger assembly that pushes snow ahead of the operator. They have no wheels, so you push the shovel along the driveway or sidewalk. Owners say you still get a good workout, but you'll save your back from the strain of bending over and lifting loads of snow.

The Toro Power Shovel (*Est. $1,700) is rated highly by owners posting feedback at Amazon.com. Professional reviewers agree that if your needs don't amount to much more than clearing your front porch, deck, patio and sidewalk in light snowfalls, the Toro is up to the job. Powered by a 7.5-amp motor, it has a 12-inch clearing path and a 20-foot throwing distance. If you flip it over and change the rotor, it converts into a broom that can clear leaves, debris and dirt. Toro electric snow blowers come with a two-year full warranty.

If you need more snow-clearing power, the 2011 Toro 1800 Power Curve ( *Est. $300) has a 15-amp motor (the previous model was 12 amps) with a bit more oomph, but it's still effective for only light snowfalls. The Power Curve has wheels, clears an 18-inch path and has a 10-inch maximum snow cut depth, so clearing an area will take less time and effort than with a power shovel. This electric snow blower weighs 25 pounds, throws snow up to 30 feet and has an adjustable chute that lets you angle the snow discharge to the side. Experts say the Toro 1800 Power Curve performs well as long as it's used in the appropriate conditions. Owners posting reviews at Amazon.com, HomeDepot.com and SnowBlowersDirect.com give it high marks, too.