How to Buy a Snow Shovel and Snow Blower
A Guide to Buying Your Ideal Snow Removal Solution
Snow removal means different things to different people across our gorgeous country. For some it may be a non-issue, but for others it can be a real pain in the... back!
Here is a simple guide to finding the best snow removal solutions for your local weather conditions, as well as for a variety of other factors including your physical well-being and the area of snow that you will be needing to clear.
Your options for snow removal include:
Refer to the helpful information below to assist in determining the right snow removal system for you! And, always make sure you are properly equipped with all the other items you need for winter maintenance i.e., suitable clothing, gloves, salt, etc.
Snow Shovels
Snow shovels are probably the most popular snow removal system in cities as they are easy to store, require no maintenance, and for the most part, areas requiring snow removal are small.
There are many choices on the market , including ergonomic varieties that should help ward off back injuries.
When buying a snow shovel, keep the following tips in mind:
- Although they are lighter, plastic blades tend to crack and break more easily. Opt for a metal blade if you can.
- Handles should be constructed of metal or wood.
- Make sure the blade opens to the side so you can easily dump snow without having to lift the shovel too high.
- A good online description should list the weight of the shovel. This is an important detail as you will need to asses whether the snow, in addition to the weight of the shovel, will be manageable for you to handle.
| Snow Shovels (view all) |
$89.00 
$119.00 at The Home Depot | $33.99 at Canadian Tire Corp | $39.99 at Canadian Tire Corp |
Powered Shovels
Powered shovels are lightweight electrical units ideal for clearing walkways, patios and driveways in areas that receive light annual snowfalls comprising of lighter flakes.
Powered shovels are designed to scoop the snow like a regular shovel, but blow it off the blade at a high velocity so that you are not required to lift and dump as you would with a regular shovel.
Power shovels work best on flat, smooth surfaces and are not suitable for use on gravel or unpaved surfaces.
Look for the models that convert to power brooms for outdoor use, and get your money's worth of this investment in the warm months too!
Electric Snow Throwers
The electric version of this removal solution is perfect for clearing patios, walkways and driveways in areas that receive light to moderate snowfalls.
They are lighter in weight, require little maintenance, are quieter, and emit fewer pollutants than their gas counterparts.
Because electric snow throwers require an electrical outlet for power, you are restricted in how far you can use them from the house. Make sure you purchase a heavy-duty, outdoor extension cord that matches the power requirements of your model, to ensure safe use.
Electric snow throwers work best on smooth, paved surfaces.
Gas Snow Throwers
Gas snow throwers provide plenty of power and are ideal for clearing walkways. Depending on the model you pick, you will be able to tackle medium to large, paved, unpaved or gravel driveways.
They are available in 2 models:
- Single-stage models feature an auger that breaks up the snow and then lifts and tosses it aside. They are built to handle heavier snow.
- Two-stage units have an auger that lifts snow, and an impeller that throws it. The impeller action clears a wide path and the two-stage units provide more power that the single-stage model. They are built to clear heavy snow and ice and come in widths of up to 45” to tackle larger and longer driveways.
Some luxury features you may want to look for when shopping for a snow removal solution are:
- Hand warmers: some snow throwers include built in warmers that will keep your fingers comfortable no matter how cold and windy it is.
- Headlights: make it easy to see in our long dark Winter hours.
- Electric start: eliminates the pull cord and gets you started at the push of a button. Electric appliances are typically better for the environment as well.
- Drift cutters: knife through hard-packed icy snow to more efficiently clear it.
- Speed control: multiple speeds in forward and reverse will ensure maximum user safety.
Overall, gas snow throwers can be expensive and do require regular maintenance, but they will provide greater range and clearing power than any other snow removal options.
You'd be remiss not to invest for estate properties or country snow removal!
| Snow Blowers (view all) |
$769.99 at Canadian Tire Corp | $1,899.99 at Sears Canada | $1,149.99 at Canadian Tire Corp |
A gardener's comprehensive checklist for all seasons.
Winter can be a beautiful time of year in your garden. Here...
Read on for tips on hot items for men and women this season,...
This year, pamper the chef with one or two key kitchen...
Weddings • LCD vs Plasma • Resort Wear • Eco-Products for Your Home • Home Media Rooms • Lawn & Garden
