Snow Blower Reviews

Comparing reviews of snow blowers

The most thorough and credible snow blower review easily comes from ConsumerReports.org, where editors identify the best two-stage, single-stage and electric snow throwers based on comparative performance testing. We also found helpful ratings and reviews from owners on retailer websites including Amazon.com, Sears.com, and HomeDepot.com. Freelance reviewers like The Quality Snow Guy at QualitySnowblower.com and Paul Sikkema of MovingSnow.com offer analyses of different brands and models based on their features, but not on hands-on testing.

Snow blowers (also called snow throwers) remove snow and ice much more quickly than a shovel, but they take some getting used to because they're awkward to maneuver. Most reviews begin by advising readers to estimate their snow-removal needs, but experts caution that you should estimate on the high side because smaller snow blowers can labor in heavy snowfalls or wet snow. In the course of our research, we found many comments from owners who wish they'd bought something more powerful.

There are two basic types of snow throwers: single-stage and two-stage. The type that's best for you will depend on how much and what type of snow (wet vs. dry, for example) you'll be dealing with, as well as what type of surface you'll be clearing. In general, single-stage blowers are best for relatively light-duty snow removal and for use on paved surfaces, while two-stage blowers can handle heavier jobs and can be used on either paved or gravel surfaces.

Single-stage snow blowers may be powered by either gas or electricity. They use a rubber-tipped auger that scoops up snow and in one motion either propels it forward or ejects it through a chute. Since the auger blades actually scrape the driveway or sidewalk, you can't use them on gravel drives, as they would eject stones along with the snow. The clearing path for both gas and electric single-stage blowers ranges from 11 to 24 inches, depending on the model.

All two-stage blowers are gasoline-powered. They use slow-turning metal augers, which are different from the rapidly spinning augers of single-stage snow blowers. A fast-spinning impeller takes the snow from the auger and zaps it out the chute. Most two-stage blowers are self-propelled, with at least four forward and two reverse speeds. You provide the guidance, taking care not to run over things you don't want scooped up and tossed out the chute. These more powerful snow blowers have wider clearing paths as well, typically ranging from 21 to 31 inches.