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Buyers Guide & Information

Best Snow Blowers Reviewed

Choose a top-rated machine to help handle your domestic snow clearing requirements this winter.

by

When shopping around for a snow blower, you’ll notice that the term “best” is thrown around quite a bit. Snow blower manufacturers make bold claims by saying that their products are superior, the best in every way. So which ones can you trust to actually follow through on all of your snow removal needs?

We’ve made the process easy for you by reviewing the best snow blowers on the market. This review will help you to choose a high-quality machine to help handle your domestic snow clearing needs. You’ll never have to worry again about Weather Channel predictions of heavy overnight snowfall when you invest in one of these top-rated snow blower models.

There are several types of snow blowers on the market, like gas vs. electric or single-stage vs. 2-stage, but the majority of snow removal machines work similarly. The "blowing" action is all thanks to a motor that is contained within the machine. This motor is turned on by either a push-start button or by pulling a cord, just like you would for a lawnmower.

Once the motor is running, a control lever on the handle grip is pushed down, and this engages a spinning mechanism called an auger. The auger pulls snow in and then pushes it towards an impeller. The impeller shoots the snow out through a discharge chute. Most chutes have 180-degree adjustability, allowing you to blow snow in the exact direction of your choosing.


Snow Blower Comparison Table 

Image

Model

Engine Cylinder Size

Plowing Capacity

Check Price

No products found.

Husqvarna

ST224P

208cc

N/A

Toro 38381 18-Inch

Toro 38381

208cc

700 lbs/min

Ariens 938033 Path Pro 21-in. Single-Stage Snow...

Ariens BLWR 938033

208cc

N/A

No products found.

Ariens 926071 Professional

420cc

91 tons/hr

EGO Power+ SNT2103 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Snow...

EGO Power+ LB5302

208cc

850 lbs/min

Ariens 921046 Deluxe 28 in. Two- Stage Electric...

Ariens 921046 Deluxe

254cc

65 tons/hr

No products found.

Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2890

277cc

N/A

Snow Joe SJ623E 18-Inch 15-Amp Electric...

Snow

Joe SJ623E

208cc

720 lbs/min

No products found.

Troy-Bilt Vortex 2490

277cc

N/A

Briggs & Stratton 24' Dual-Stage Snow Blower with...

Briggs &

Stratton 1

208cc

1000 lbs/min

Types & Styles of Snow Blowers

When deciding on the best snow blower for you, you need to realize that there are several types and styles. In the past, most blowers operated with gas, but now there are plenty of options for electric and battery-powered snow removal machines.

Types:

  • Electric/Corded
    An electric snow blower requires a power source. It comes with a cord, so to get the machine up and running, all you need to do is plug it in and start blowing snow from the deck or driveway. The perk of choosing a corded machine is that you never have to worry about refilling on gas or recharging a battery. The only downside is that the cord might get in the way from time to time.
  • Gas-Powered
    Gas-powered snow blowers require gasoline to operate. This type ranks low in terms of eco-friendliness, but many people still choose gas-powered since they are the most powerful when it comes to removing snow. These are ideal for areas with heavy snowfall and constant blizzards, but other than that, a more eco-friendly electric or battery-powered machine is the better choice.
  • Cordless/Battery Powered
    Cordless snow blowers come with a rechargeable lithium battery. These are the most environmentally-friendly of all three types, and another perk is that there is no cord to get in the way. However, you will need to make sure that the battery is fully charged before blowing snow. Keep in mind that a fully-charged battery won’t last for much longer than an hour.

Styles:

  • Single-Stage
    Deciding on the number of snow blower stages is an important step in the buying process. Lifehacker says that "single-stage snow blowers are ideal for smaller jobs like sidewalks, walkways and short driveways. They are lighter, compact and easier to handle than two-stage models, but they are only suitable if you get 8 inches or less of snow." Two and three-stage machines are more ideal for more substantial snowfall.
  • Two-Stage
    For more moderate snowfall, a two-stage snow blower will suffice. In comparison to a single-stage model that blows snow with just one stage, a two-stage machine uses power-assisted wheels for more efficient snow removal. There is also an added fan within the machine that blows snow from the spinning auger, powerfully discharging it through the chute. Another reason to choose two-stage is that these machines can be used on gravel or dirt, while single-stage blowers are only suitable for paved areas.
  • Three Stage
    Lifehacker says that "a three-stage blower is like a turbo-charged two-stage." It operates in a very similar way but uses even more force with the help of an accelerator that works to move the auger faster than it would in a two-stage machine. This is ideal for clearing heavy, wet snow as quickly as possible. But with so much power comes a higher price tag, and to be completely honest, three-stage blowers aren't necessary for most homeowners.

Buying A High-Quality Snow Blower

Snowfall Rate, Ground, Driveway Size

It's impossible to predict exactly how much snowfall you'll experience this winter, but you should have a reasonably solid idea based on your location and weather trends of the past. The amount of snowfall determines the type of snow blower to invest in.

For light to moderate snowfall, a single or two-stage machine will do just fine. If you’re expecting full-on blizzards all winter long, you’ll want to invest some extra money in a three-stage machine.

Another thing to consider is the type of ground you'll be removing snow from. Single-stage blowers come in direct contact with the ground, so they cannot be used on gravel or dirt. Two and three-stage machines are hoisted upon wheels, making them more ideal for a variety of groundcover. For a large driveway, it's unlikely that a single-stage blower will cut it; you'll need a more powerful two or three-stage machine.

Snow Blower Type/Motor Type/Engine Size/Power Type

We've already established that two and three-stage blowers come with more power thanks to the additional impeller that helps to throw snow. But the size of the engine also has a huge impact on a machine's power. Many modern snow blowers come with 208cc engines, which is perfectly capable of removing snow from small residential decks, sidewalks, driveways, and patios.

Power type is another consideration; the kind of power a machine uses determines a lot, like whether you'll have to refill the blower with gas or recharge the battery. Although gas-powered engines are considered more powerful, they aren’t the optimal choice for a few reasons, mainly that handling combustible gasoline isn’t ideal.

Clearing Width & Depth

A snow blower's clearance is the amount of snow it can take in during one single pass. Every model will come with two clearance values, one for width and one for depth. Clearance width refers to the width of each path, and depth refers to the maximum depth of snow that the machine is capable of clearing. For residential snow removal, look for a clearing width of at least 18 inches and depth of at least 8 inches.

Wheels vs. Tracks

The debate over wheels vs. tracks is ongoing. It's impossible to say which is better since they each have their pros and cons. However, we can say that snow blower users seem to prefer wheeled machines for several reasons. A snow blower that is set on wheels is easy to turn, and they provide more traction on slippery snow and ice. Some people prefer snow blowers on tracks, though, since these are better suited for gravel drives and dirt paths.

Speed Control/Gears

More basic models come with just one speed-setting, but the best snow blowers feature several forward and reverse gears. The most advanced snow blowers are equipped with up to six forward gears and two reverse, giving the user complete control of speed and direction. You can go at your own pace, whether that means taking your time and speedily removing snow.

Power steering is another one of the must-have snow blower features that will make snow removal easier than ever. It’s especially helpful in areas with heavy snowfall. Many models with power-steering come with single-hand control, which allows you to make adjustments without stopping the motor altogether.

Electric Starter

The pull-cord method of starting a snow blower is hugely outdated. The much easier and faster method for starting a snow blower is with a push-start button. Not only does this save time, but it also saves on energy that you should be putting towards removing snow, not towards starting the machine. Simply push a button to get the snow blower up and running.

Extra Features

The best snow blower will come with a range of additional features, not only to enhance safety but to make the entire snow removing experience more comfortable. An LED headlight comes in handy for eliminating snow any time of day or night. Hand grips with built-in hand warmers are another nice addition, especially for those with large driveways and a big snow removing job ahead of themselves.

Safety Standards

It's important to remember that a snow blower is, in fact, a power tool, which means that taking the proper safety precautions is a must. Look for a machine that comes with dead man controls - just about all of them do. If the user becomes incapacitated in any way and loses grip of the snow blower, dead man controls stop the motor’s auger from spinning.

Warranty & Budget

A snow blower is a high-value tool, but that doesn't mean you can't find one for a great price. There are plenty of snow removal machines that quickly and effectively remove snow, all without the high price tag. We'll cover a few of these models below in our list of the 10 best snow blowers reviewed.

Along with value, consider a machine's warranty coverage. The best manufacturers have faith in their products, and they show this by offering an extended warranty period.


10 Best Snow Blowers Reviewed

1. Husqvarna ST224P

No products found.

Best Snow Blower (Top Pick!)

Dimensions

41.75” x 22.75” x 25.75”

Item Weight

198.6 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

24”, 12”

Engine Cylinder Size

208cc

Drive Type

Dual-Wheel Belt-Driven

Plowing Capacity

N/A

Warranty

Parts: 3 years, Engine: 5 years

The best snow blower to top our list is the Husqvarna snow blower model ST224P. This model has everything you could ever need for snow removal, including an easy-push electric start and powerful 208cc engine. This two-stage model has a 24-inch clearing width, allowing it to clear a wide path of snow with each pass. It can power through snow that is anywhere from 2 to 12 inches deep.

Husqvarna says that the 

"ST224P has been developed for homeowners who need a high-performing snow blower to clear snow from large garage driveways and paths." 

Most residential snow blowers are designed for small driveways, walkways, and decks, but this one can handle even large home driveways. And as you throw snow, you can control exactly where it goes with the removable chute deflector. The chute's position is easily controlled by a lever on the machine's panel. 

Every aspect of this machine was designed for maximum comfort. It comes with heated handle grips for more comfortable operation in cold climates. Husqvarna has thought of everything; you don't even need to worry about the possibility of slipping and sliding around. This best-rated snow blower is equipped with adjustable skid shoes that allow the machine to perform, regardless of conditions.

One thing to keep in mind is that the ST224P is gas-powered, so you will need to go through the proper maintenance steps that come along with a gas-powered snow blower. The perk of choosing gas-powered over an electric snow blower is that it comes with more power, but the downside is that it is not as environmentally-friendly.

Pros

  • Powerful engine
  • Heated hand grips
  • Removable chute deflector
  • Cuts through hard-packed snow
  • No slipping or sliding

Cons

  • Lacks eco-friendliness
  • Extremely heavy

2. Toro 38381

Best Electric Snow Blower

Dimensions

36.2” x 18” x 47”

Item Weight

25 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

18”, 12”

Engine Cylinder Size

208cc

Drive Type

Auger Propelled

Plowing Capacity

700 lbs/min

Warranty

2 years

Looking for the best electric snow blower to remove snow this winter? Consider the Toro single stage snow blower, model #38381. According to Toro snow blower reviews, the 38381 is highly effective at clearing a path of snow up to 18 inches wide and 12 inches deep. The company claims to be the best snow blower brand in America, and many people agree with them.

The 38381 is powered by electricity, so you'll have to be OK with removing snow with a corded machine. The typical amperage of electric snow blowers is anywhere from 7 to 15 amps, and this one features tremendous power with its 15-amp design. It can move up to 700 pounds of snow per minute, which is the perfect solution for removing snow from walkways, decks, patios, and small driveways.

So why have we named this the best electric snow blower? In addition to what we've already mentioned, we love the extra features that come along with this single-stage snow blower. It comes with a full-bail ergonomic handle, quick level feature, and zip deflector. All of this is made possible in a lightweight machine that is easy to assemble.

The main downside for some homeowners is the single-stage design. There are perks to choosing single-stage, like a lower price tag, but this single-stage machine isn't capable of removing heavy-duty snow. Even with its 15 amps of power, this machine is for removing light to moderate snowfall from relatively small areas. For large driveways or blizzard-like snow, you'll want to invest in a two or three-stage snow blower instead.

Pros

  • Power curve technology
  • Big power with no gas or battery
  • Easy to use controls
  • Completely maintenance-free

Cons

  • Less power with the single-stage design
  • Not suitable for gravel or dirt

3. Ariens BLWR 938033

Best-Single Stage Snow Blower

Dimensions

36” x 24” x 23”

Item Weight

97 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

21”, 12”

Engine Cylinder Size

208cc

Drive Type

Auger Propelled

Plowing Capacity

N/A

Warranty

3 years

The Toro 38381 is the best single-stage snow blower powered by electricity, but the best gas snow blower with a single-stage design is the Ariens BLWR 938033. This model is praised in single stage snow blower reviews, mainly for its easy-to-maneuver design. It's super lightweight and easy to transport, but that doesn't take away from its snow-blowing abilities.

The Ariens BLWR can blow snow up to 35 feet. Gas-powered blowers are almost always more powerful than electric and battery-powered machines, and this is exactly the case for the 938033. It is equipped with a powerful auger that pulls spin in before forcefully discharging it up to 35 feet in any direction. Unlike many gas snow blowers, this one comes with an electric start, so simply push a button to get the machine up and running.

The Ariens company says that the machine’s 

“high-performance auger-propelled drive system allows you to go at your own speed.”

No matter if you take things slow or fast, the 938033 can clear a path up to 21 inches wide and 12 inches deep.

“The blower high wear paddle material has a greater abrasion resistance and thickness to combat wear from asphalt and concrete,” 

says Ariens.

Snow is cleared down to the pavement with the machine's adjustable scraper bar and reinforced paddles. Since this is a single-stage machine, it should only be used on a solid surface, not on gravel, dirt, or any other type of ground cover. The 208cc engine is competent, but the downside is that gas-powered engines require more maintenance than electric snow blowers.

Pros

  • Electric start
  • One hand interlock
  • High-performance auger
  • Lightweight design for easy transport

Cons

  • Some maintenance required
  • Not suitable for gravel or dirt

4. Ariens 926071 Professional

No products found.

Best Two-Stage Snow Blower

Dimensions

60.3” x 34.2” x 46.6”

Item Weight

334 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

32”

Engine Cylinder Size

420cc

Drive Type

Disc-o-Matic

Plowing Capacity

91 tons/hr

Warranty

5 years

Are you looking for the best two-stage snow blower for more power this winter? The Ariens 926071 will do more than just get the job done - it will do so quickly and efficiently, all while keeping you comfortable in the process. Many 2 stage snow blower reviews say that there is no better choice for a 2 stage machine, and this is mainly thanks to the powerful 420cc engine.

Most residential snow blowers are equipped with 208cc engines, but the Ariens 926071 is considered a professional-grade machine, offering much more engine power than the typical residential snow removal machine. This extra boost in engine power and massive 32-inch clearing width means that you’ll be able to clear snow in as little as half the time as it would take you with another 2 stage machine.

Anyone using the Ariens 926071 can go at their own pace. It comes with 6 forward speeds and 2 in reverse.  The steering features auto-turn capabilities, making it easy to maneuver in any direction. Since this is often used for commercial settings, you can count on solid warranty coverage of 5 years (for both the parts and the engine).

Although this snow blower comes with powered steering and several speed settings, some reviewers still claim that it can be a bit difficult to maneuver. It's a massive machine - nearly 335 pounds - so it's not suitable for everyone. But as long as you have a full range of motion and aren't limited in your mobility, you shouldn't have trouble handling the Ariens 926071 - especially if you're looking for extra features like a halogen headlight, hand warmers, electric start, and drift cutters.

Pros

  • Amazing plowing capacity
  • Powerful 420cc engine
  • Steel 3-blade impeller
  • Quick turn chute rotation
  • Halogen headlight and hand warmers

Cons

  • Extremely heavy design
  • High cost

5. EGO Power+ LB5302

Best Cordless Snow Blower

Dimensions

38.6” x 23.8” x 19.5”

Item Weight

55 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

21”, 12”

Engine Cylinder Size

208cc

Drive Type

Auger Propelled

Plowing Capacity

850 lbs/min

Warranty

5 years

There are tons of perks to opting for the best cordless electric snow blower, like never having to refill on gasoline and never having to worry about an annoying cord getting in the way. Another perk of choosing the best battery snow blower is that you'll be doing good things for the environment, especially when you select the Power+ LB5302 EGO snow blower, the best cordless snow blower on the market.

The EGO snow blower was built with a 56-volt engine for reliable battery-powered operation. It has a solid 21-inch path clearing capacity and even comes with a headlight for clearing snow in the dark.

There are, however, a few missing features, according to Consumer Reports, like no heated handgrips, no single-hand controls, and a lack of multiple speed settings. But any EGO snow blower review will tell you that EGO still gets the job done, even without all the fancy features.

Here’s what the EGO company has to say about its most-loved battery-powered product: 

“The new EGO POWER+ Snow Blower is the only cordless snow blower that delivers the power and performance of gas without the noise, fuss, and fumes. Featuring Peak Power technology, it combines the power of any two EGO 56-Volt Arc Lithium batteries for superior clearing power, even in heavy, wet snow."

One downside that comes along with choosing the best battery-powered snow blower is that you will have to rely on battery power, and we all know that batteries don't last forever. The battery in the EGO LB5302 lasts only about 20 minutes on the highest power setting (but 60 minutes on the lower setting), so you can still expect to have to recharge after each snow blowing session.

Pros

  • Whisper-quiet operation
  • Highly weather-resistant
  • Lightweight for great maneuverability
  • Even suitable for large driveways

Cons

  • Some missing features
  • Recharge needed after every snow removal

6. Ariens 921046 Deluxe

Best Snow Blower for Large Driveways

Dimensions

58.6” x 29.9” x 45.3”

Item Weight

250 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

28”, 16”

Engine Cylinder Size

254cc

Drive Type

Disc-o-Matic

Plowing Capacity

65 tons/hr

Warranty

3 years

It's common to feel frustrated as you search around for the best snow blower for a large driveway area. Many residential snow blower machines state in their product description that they are only suitable for decks, patios, walkways, and small driveways. So what are you to do if you have to clear snow from a large driveway? The solution is the Ariens 921046 Deluxe snow blower.

This model has a wide 28-inch clearing width and is capable of moving 65 tons of snow per hour. The signature Ariens AX engine has a cylinder size of 254cc, which is slightly larger than the standard 208cc. 

Ariens says that these features are what makes this model so popular among other residential snow blowers:

"Blows snow up to 50 feet, 14" auger and impeller diameter, Tall housing height, Auto-Turn Triggerless Steering, Interlocking handles for one-handed operation.”

One of the reasons that this snow blowing machine is so effective for large driveways is that it comes with two-stage functionality. In a two-stage machine, the snow is thrown with much more force and power than would be possible in a single-stage blower. This is why it can throw snow up to 50 feet in any direction, while a single-stage machine is often unable to throw snow more than 35 feet.

All in all, this is an excellent choice if you live in a home with a large driveway. Since it runs on gas rather than a battery, you won't have to worry about stopping halfway through your snow blowing session to recharge. You also won't have to worry about needing a long extension cord to access the furthest reaches of the driveway. But, like any gas-powered machine, you will have to take the proper maintenance precautions when handling the Ariens 921046.

Pros

  • Multiple speed controls
  • Impressive 16-inch clearing depth
  • Auto-turn triggerless steering
  • Heavy-duty cast iron casing

Cons

  • Heavy, bulky design
  • Some maintenance required

7. Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2890

No products found.

Best Gas Snow Blower

Dimensions

48.5” x 30.75” x 33.87”

Item Weight

250 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

28”, 21”

Engine Cylinder Size

277cc

Drive Type

Auger propelled

Plowing Capacity

N/A

Warranty

2 years

Of all the top-rated snow blowers, gas-powered models tend to top the list. Although a gas snow blower has its flaws, a gas-powered snow blower offers the most power. This is especially true of the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2890, which features a 277cc engine and can clear a path of 28 inches wide and 21 inches deep in one single pass. It gets the job done quickly, and it is the best snow blower for wet snow, even if that snow is nearly 2 feet deep.

The 2890 Troy Bilt snow blower isn't just about power; it's also about comfort. It comes with Touch-n-Turn power steering that has been patented by the Troy-Bilt company, plus you'll be able to keep your hands toasty warm with the heated handgrips. 

The in-dash headlight provides better visibility during day or night, and the three unique SelecTrac drive modes

 "shift the unit's weight for optimum performance on hard-packed or icy snow or on gravel driveways."

To prevent slipping and sliding, the 2890 comes with deluxe polymer skid shoes. Maneuverability is at an all-time high with the 6 forward and 2 reverse speed settings. It has a decent fuel capacity of 5 quarts, which means you won’t have to constantly fill up, even if this winter season brings a lot of snow. The discharge chute extends 8 inches and can be rotated quickly, allowing you to change the direction of your snow blowing easily.                            

Pros

  • Works on gravel driveways
  • Touch-n-Turn power steering
  • Push-button electric start
  • Heated hand grips
  • In-dash headlight

Cons

  • Heavy design
  • High cost

8. Snow Joe SJ623E

Best Budget/Cheap Model

Dimensions

45” x 19” x 26”

Item Weight

33.7 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

18”, 10”

Engine Cylinder Size

208cc

Drive Type

Auger Propeller

Plowing Capacity

720 lbs/min

Warranty

2 years

Many sources consider Snow Joe to be the best snow blower brand, and a huge reason for this is that the company's snow blower prices can't be beaten. Snow Joe is all about providing value for money, and they've done exactly this by creating the best budget snow blower to date: the Snow Joe SJ623E. This Snow Joe snow blower machine isn't just the best budget/cheap model - it has a lot more going for it than just that.

When browsing around for the best price on snow blowers, the SJ623E will show up at the top of the list. Aside from its affordable price, this single-stage electric corded machine features a powerful 15-amp design, wide 18-inch clearing width, maintenance-free operation, and heavy-duty steel auger. It also comes with extra features like a 23-watt halogen light, a chute clean-out tool, and easy-glide wheels. 

Another nice feature is the machine’s durable scraper blade. Snow Joe says that

 “the scraper blade at the base of the unit efficiently scrapes the snow clear to the ground without damaging your deck or pavement. Equipped with a 180º adjustable discharge chute, the Ultra SJ623E throws snow up to 25 feet away in the direction you want it to go.”

For the price, you won't find anything better than this budget-friendly Snow Joe snow blower. Of course, you can't expect the same power that you would get from a pricy two or three-stage machine, but if you're working with light to moderate snowfall in a relatively small area, the SJ623E should do the trick. Some reviewers do complain of some slipping on icy ground, but this is really the only complaint towards the SJ623E.

Pros

  • Great value for the cost
  • Maintenance-free operation
  • Easy electric start
  • Easy to assemble and use
  • 180-degree chute rotation

Cons

  • Some slippage on icy ground
  • Not as powerful as pricy models

9. Troy-Bilt Vortex 2490

No products found.

Best 3-Stage Commercial Snow Blower

Dimensions

48.6” x 26.8” x 32.8”

Item Weight

215 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

24”, 21”

Engine Cylinder Size

277cc

Drive Type

Auger Propelled

Plowing Capacity

N/A

Warranty

2 years

Investing in the best 3 stage snow blower isn't essential for all homeowners. In most cases, the best commercial snow blowers feature a 3-stage design - they're not as common for residential use. However, some homeowners will find a 3-stage snow blower handle, especially if the snow removal area is on a slope or you're expecting lots of snowfall this winter. Whether you're looking for a powerful snow removal solution for the home or commercial space, the Troy-Bilt Vortex 2490 is a top pick.

Troy Bilt snow blower reviews claim that the 2490 model is as powerful as it gets. It features an engine cylinder size of 277cc that runs on gas, Touch-n-Turn power steering, one-hand operation controls, and 4-way remote pitch and chute control. When breaking through heavy snow barriers, the large tires offer extra traction, so you won't have to worry about slipping, even on sloped ground.

One of the most-loved features, though, is the 3-stage design. Troy-Bilt says that

“the three-stage process is made possible with the new 12" inch accelerator that spins at 10 times the speed of the Xtreme™ augers, breaking down the heaviest, wettest snow before throwing it out of the high-impact, clog-resistant polymer chute.”

There are two drawbacks to choosing a 3-stage commercial-grade snow blower. The first is that these require more maintenance than single and two-stage machines. For all of your snow removal maintenance needs, check out the Troy Bilt snow blower parts and support page. The other drawback is the inflated cost; 3-stage machines almost always come with a higher price tag since they are more powerful, more durable, and more advanced. 

Pros

  • 4-way chute control
  • All-wheel drive
  • Multiple speed controls
  • Heated hand grips
  • Deluxe polymer skid shoes

Cons

  • High cost
  • More maintenance with 3 stage design

10. Briggs & Stratton 1

Best Rated Snow Blower

Dimensions

53” x 26” x 38”

Item Weight

175 lbs

Clearing Width/Depth

24”, 20”

Engine Cylinder Size

208cc

Drive Type

Friction Disk

Plowing Capacity

1000 lbs/min

Warranty

2 years

The Briggs & Stratton company has manufactured one of the best snow blowers on the market. If you’re looking for a value for money pick, you'll love the 1024 Briggs and Stratton snow blower. This model doesn't just come with great value; it is also the best-rated snow blower according to thousands of Briggs and Stratton snow blower reviews. 

The B & S company profile states that 

“is focused on providing power to get work done and make people's lives better. Briggs & Stratton is the world’s largest producer of gasoline engines for outdoor power equipment, and is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of power generation.” 

This all makes sense once you put the 1024 snow blower to work. This model is capable of clearing a path that is 24 inches wide and 20 inches high. It does so with the 950 snow series 208cc engine that was built for 9.5-ft pounds of torque. Although this machine runs on gas, it comes with an electric start, so there's no need to continuously pull a cord just to get the machine up and running.

Briggs & Stratton machines are built to last; the 1024 snow blower comes with a steel frame, chute, and notched auger that can handle snow (and even ice) with ease. This snow blower comes with steel reversible skid shoes to minimize slipping, left side crank rotation for complete control of where the chute discharges snow, and single LED lights for added safety.

Pros

  • Left side crank rotation
  • Built-to-last design
  • 5 forward, 2 reverse gears
  • Notched steel auger for more snow intake
  • Convenient electric start

Cons

  • Not eco-friendly
  • Difficult to assemble

How To Use Snow Blowers

The steps for using your brand new snow blower depend on the specific type and model you’ve purchased. A gas-powered machine operates differently from a battery-operated or electric model. There are, however, general steps for using a snow blower that can help you get started. Here’s what they are:

  • Step 1:
    Assess the situation by determining what direction the wind is blowing and designating a place for the snow to build up.
  • Step 2:
    Prepare the snow blower by checking if it has fuel, checking if the battery is charged, or making sure you have the proper extension cord.
  • Step 3:
    Bring the snow blower outside before starting it. Start the motor by pushing the electric start button or pulling the cord.

Top Brands of Snow Blowers

One of the best brands for great value is SnowJoe, but it’s not the only top-rated manufacturer of snow blowers, not by a long shot. Other reputable snow blower brands include Cub Cadet, Craftsman, and Toro. It's difficult to say precisely who makes the best snow blowers since each company has it's own strong points, but for top-notch performance at an affordable price, you can't go wrong with SnowJoe.


Snow Blower Accessories

  • Snow Cab
    Attaching a snow cab to your snow blower is one of the best ways to keep yourself protected from the wind, snow, and cold temperatures. The Arnold Snow Thrower Cab is a top choice for its heavy-duty construction, offering complete protection from the winter elements. 
  • Snow Blower Cover
    You won't be using your snow blower all year round, or at least we hope not! During the snow blowing offseason, it's a good idea to keep your snow blower covered while in storage, and the easiest way to do this is with a snow blower cover.
  • Tire Chains
    Many people worry about sliding on slippery snow and ice. This can easily be prevented with a high-quality pair of snow blower tire chains
  • Belts
    It’s not uncommon to need a new snow blower belt. This essential part should be replaced at least once every 5 years. The good news is that changing snow blower belts is easy, and they’re cheap to purchase on Amazon. 
  • Shear Pins
    Snow blower shear pins connect the auger to the auger shaft. When something other than snow gets lodged in the machine, the shear pins are designed to snap to prevent damage. Having an extra set of shear pins handy is a good idea.
  • Extra Batteries
    For a battery-powered snow blower, consider investing in a spare rechargeable lithium-ion battery, just in case your current battery fails you.

Safety Tips and Maintenance Guidelines

Maintaining your snow blowing is the best way to keep it working for years. Sears says that there are a few things you can do to maintain your snow blower, including:

  • Change the spark plug
  • Inspect the belts regularly
  • Check if the shear pins are damaged
  • If gas-powered, always use fresh gas with stabilizer

Maintenance is important, but what’s even more important to follow the proper safety guidelines. The main thing to remember is that this is not a toy, and learning how to use the machine first is a must. This can be done by reading the snow blower’s owner manual. Only use (and turn on) the snow blower outdoors, and be mindful of your limits by taking breaks when needed.


People Also Ask (FAQs)

Where is the best place to find top deals when buying these snow blowers?

There is no better place to buy a snow removal machine than on Amazon. Shopping online offers the best deals, the greatest selection, and the greatest convenience. The other perk of shopping here is that you can browse through Amazon snow blowers and their reviews while comparing ratings and prices.

What is the best time of year to buy a snow blower?

The best time to buy a snow blower is not right before the winter snow hits. For the best cheap snow blower, start shopping before the winter season, like in the summer or fall, or once springtime rolls around. Since snow blowers aren't in high demand during these months, you'll likely find the best prices.

What is the difference between a 2 stage and 3 stage snow blower?

According to A Green Hand, the difference between 2-stage vs. 3-stage snow blowers is this:

 “The 3 stage snow blower basically works the same way as the 2 stage snow blower, but they do it with more speed and horsepower. Both of them make use of collection augers and an impeller for throwing the snow away up to 50 feet away, but only the 3 stage variant has an accelerator.”

How far does a snow blower throw snow?

A snow blower’s throwing distance depends on a few things, like the type of snow blower (one, two, or three-stage) and the size of the engine. Generally speaking, though, a snow blower can throw snow up to 20 feet or more, which is plenty of distance to clear the area entirely of snow.

What do you spray on a snow blower chute?

To keep a snow blower chute from clogging, it is recommended that you lubricate it with a non-stick spray. This not only prevents clogging, but also prevents damage from dirt, gravel, grass, and other unpleasantries that aren’t meant to make their way into the machine.

What is the difference between a snow blower and snow thrower?

Single-stage machines are often referred to as snow "throwers" since they don't actually use a fan to blow the snow from the chute. A single-stage machine picks up the snow and throws it in one swift motion, whereas a two or three-stage snow "blower" forcefully discharges the snow from the chute with the help of a blowing fan.

How do I decide between a single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage snow blower?

This decision depends on several things, like the size of the area you'll be removing snow from, the heaviness of the snow, and the type of ground cover. For large areas and heavy snowfall, a three-stage blower is the best choice. For moderate snowfall in a medium to a small area, a two-stage blower will do just fine, and for light snow and a small removal area, a single-stage machine should do the trick.


Conclusion

No matter if you’re looking for the best 2 stage snow blower or the best deals on snow blowers, you can’t go wrong with the Husqvarna ST224P. Husqvarna snow blower reviews all say the same thing: this 2 stage gas-powered machine can blast through hard-packed snow, all while keeping you comfortable in the process.

But let's face it, gas-powered machines aren't for everyone. If this is the case for you, consider the Toro electric snow blower instead.

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