How to choose a snow blower and how are they different?

Device

Snowblowers intended for home use have head lighting, which greatly simplifies the process of working in the dark. In addition, cars can be equipped with an electric starter, but consume gasoline. This is very convenient, because at extremely low temperatures, the gasoline starter will be very difficult to activate. There are two variations of snow blowers on the market - home and industrial. They differ in performance, purpose and pricing.

In addition, all products are divided into two groups according to the cleaning method: one-stage and two-stage. The undercarriage of this design is both self-propelled and non-self-propelled. The first option implies the presence of wheels, which increase maneuverability and simplify handling. Because of these wheels, the operator will practically not feel any load, regardless of the weight and dimensions of the device. If the machine is equipped with a non-self-propelled undercarriage, then a certain amount of effort will be required from the operator.

Criterias of choice

When buying an electric shovel, it is necessary to take into account the purpose of the purchase and the scope of application - for home use, for giving, etc. The final choice of power, material and other parameters depends on this.

Basic criteria for choosing an electric shovel for snow removal:

Manufacturer. On the market, you can find models from more than ten major manufacturing plants. The most popular companies are Huter, GreenWorks, DDE, Stiga, Monferme and others.
Manufacturer country. Electric snow shovels are manufactured in China, France, USA, South Korea and Sweden. The geography of production is expanding every year, new factories appear, which expands the range of products and makes the price more competitive on the market.
Capture width. This parameter determines what gap the electric snow sweeper captures at one time. When choosing, you need to focus on the type of territory. When it comes to cleaning stairs or other narrow surfaces, it is advisable to choose models with a small grip width (up to 20 cm). When working on large areas, the wide options of the electrofoil are more suitable.
Engine power. This parameter can reach 2 kW. The optimal solution is to buy an electric shovel with a motor power of about 1,000 watts. This is usually sufficient to clear snow in large areas without the risk of overheating. When choosing, it must be remembered that the consumption of electricity and the discharge rate of the battery (for battery models) depend on the power of the engine.
Throw range. The maximum indicator can reach 15 meters (average 6-8), which must be taken into account. When removing snow from a small area, the snow must not be thrown onto adjacent areas.
Capture height. Modern snow blowers are capable of capturing up to 60 cm of snow cover. This is convenient when the region has a lot of rainfall. Otherwise, the electric shovel will "bury itself" in the snow and will have to go through the same area several times.
Auger type. You can find rubberized or non-rubberized augers on sale. This parameter affects the smoothness of the ride and the applicability in areas prone to damage.
Ejection distance control. A big plus if the electropath has an option to change the throw range. But such models have a higher price.
Heated handles.In expensive electric shovels for snow removal, the handle is heated, which increases the comfort of work in cold weather and allows you to hold the shovel even with your bare hands. The heating also prevents snow or ice from freezing onto the surface of the handle.
Power supply - from a battery or a 220 V network. When choosing, it is worth considering where exactly snow removal is required. If it is necessary to process areas remote from objects with a voltage source, it is better to choose battery options for an electropath. Their advantage is that they are not tied to a household network. In other cases, conventional models powered by 220 V are more suitable, because they have no time limits.
Start type - manual or electric starter. In the first case, the start of the electric shovel is provided manually, and in the second, according to the principle of starting a car (a starter is installed). The starter version is more convenient to operate, but requires proper maintenance, and the cost of such models is higher.
Regulation of the direction of discharge. In some shovels it is possible to change the throwing direction depending on the area to be cleaned. The change takes place in manual mode, or it is not provided.
Weight. The weight of an electric shovel depends on many factors - engine power, material of manufacture, handle design and other factors. It is better to give preference to models that weigh up to 7 kg

Larger snow blowers must be chosen with care, as their use requires a lot of physical effort.
Auger material. There are electric shovels on the market with a plastic, wooden or metal auger

It is desirable that this part be made of a soft material that is flexible, lightweight and shock-resistant.

An additional criterion for choosing is price. This indicator depends on many factors, namely design features, functionality, manufacturer, etc.

The cost of an electric shovel for removing snow varies in a wide range, so when choosing it is important to focus on the place of application and financial capabilities

Rating of premium class self-propelled gasoline snow blowers

Premium snow removal equipment deserves special attention. A distinctive feature of this category of snowblowers is the increased power reserve of the engine - from 8 liters. with.

Snow blowers of this class cope with the elimination of:

  • ice crust;
  • snowdrifts;
  • loose snow;
  • ice.

A high-quality and efficient model can be purchased in any price segment of the snow blower market

This type of equipment makes it possible to handle large enough areas (up to 50-60 acres). Not all manufacturers of snow removal equipment produce machines with such power.

Features of the Husqvarna ST 330PT self-propelled gasoline snow blower

The Husqvarna ST 330PT takes the leading position in the ranking of premium snow clearing equipment. This Swedish brand breaks almost all records for the quality and performance of its products.

The structure is driven by robust and massive tracks. This nuance provides the car with high cross-country ability where other models cannot cope. The advantages of the Husqvarna ST 330PT include an oversized auger. The diameter of this part is 355 mm. Therefore, effective cleaning of the territory from packed snow is ensured.

The structure has a well-developed design that allows you to operate the snow blower with one hand. In extreme cold, the operator can use the heated grips to make his work even more comfortable. The two-stage cleaning system increases the performance of the mechanism.

The Husqvarna ST 330PT snowblower is powerful yet easy to operate

The machine is designed for clearing large and medium-sized areas. Easily handles the processing of snow of various densities.Easy starting of the engine is provided by an electric starter. The screw, made of metal, crushes the packed snow covered with an ice crust.

Features of the self-propelled snowblower SNAPPER SNM924E

The next in the ranking of premium designs is the SNAPPER SNM924E snowblower. In comparison with the previous position, the cost of this snow blower is almost 2 times lower. But it cannot be said that SNAPPER SNM924E is significantly inferior to the Husqvarna ST 330PT in terms of performance.

The efficiency of the equipment is ensured by a robust metal impeller and a two-stage cleaning system. In large areas, this model can throw snow at a distance of up to 12 m. The augers have special tines that crush dense crust and ice. The model is completely self-propelled. So that the operator does not experience any inconvenience in the process of work, the machine has 8 gears: 2 reverse and 6 forward. Thanks to them, the structure moves and turns smoothly.

The SNAPPER SNM924E snow thrower is well thought out for a smooth ride

Features of the self-propelled snow blower HONDA HSM1390IKZE

Snowblower HONDA HSM1390IKZE entered the top three premium designs in the rating. The hybrid design of this device is highly efficient. The snow blower can move up to 83 tons of snow in just 1 hour of operation.

This productivity is due to the increased size of the bucket, capable of a width of 92 cm. Thanks to this, even large areas with the help of the HONDA HSM1390IKZE will be efficiently cleaned in the shortest possible time. Snow is thrown up to a distance of 18 m through a durable metal chute. Its position is regulated by an electrically powered actuator. The operator can control this entire process from his console.

In order to improve the cross-country ability of the structure, the manufacturer equipped it with tracks. This element of the machine is driven by electric motors installed there specifically for this.

The advantages of the HONDA HSM1390IKZE are high performance, excellent build quality and a reliable four-stroke motor.

The HONDA HSM1390IKZE tracked model is renowned for its high quality, powerful motor and efficient operation.

How to choose a reliable snow blower

Self-propelled snow blowers are easy to operate, so even a woman can use a machine that weighs about one hundred kilograms. And yet, in order for the snowplow to work for a long time without interruptions, it is necessary to take a responsible approach to its choice.

Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the following characteristics:

From the variety of the model range in the modern market, it is necessary to choose the best option that would meet all your wishes.

Power. The horsepower used to measure the power of gasoline-powered snow blowers affects the performance of the vehicle as well as its lifespan. The more horsepower, the more powerful the car. But it should be borne in mind that the most powerful engine requires a lot of fuel. Also, the more powerful the machine, the more noisy it is.

Self-propelled wheeled snow blower with a gasoline engine and a snow throwing capacity of 12 meters

The snow blower is a great helper in the fight against the snow element

Augers

This part of the snow blower is the most important, because it depends on its strength how difficult areas the selected unit can handle. Augers are plastic, metal with rubber rim and steel gear

The first type is capable of removing only soft snow, the second is capable of cleaning wet snow, and the third type can handle any kind of snow. Accordingly, the stronger the auger, the higher the cost of the snow blower. Therefore, before starting to buy a car, it is important to determine how difficult the task is.

Self-propelled vehicles have multiple gears. Accordingly, the speed of work depends on the number of these transmissions.

Gasoline snow blower device

Type of drive. Snow blowers move either on wheels or on tracks. The caterpillar track is rightfully considered the best, because it guarantees good grip on the surface. But their main disadvantage is that they cannot change speed quickly.

Height of areas to be treated. The higher this indicator, the thicker the snow layer can be, which the snow blower is able to capture.

Equipping the snow blower with tracks improves traction when driving, thereby reducing working time and making it more efficient on slopes

The width of the treated areas. This figure indicates how much lane width the machine will be able to clear. Therefore, the speed of work with such a device depends on this.

Additional functions. Manufacturers often add additional features to the standard design. They are designed to make your job easier. For example, modern snow blowers are equipped with flashlights and heated grips.

The snowblower is very convenient to maneuver, especially on icy surfaces, due to the tires with winter tread. And the heated handle will provide maximum comfort when clearing snow in the most severe winter.

Each of these points is important to consider when choosing. After all, before buying, it is worth considering the size of the territory of the country house to be cleaned, as well as the climate and relief

This is the only way you can be sure that the gasoline self-propelled snow blowers, the price of which is very high, were chosen correctly.

Views

The working principle of snow blowers is always the same no matter what type of machine you buy. But to a large extent, the convenience of using this device is influenced by the type of engine, stroke and other details. There are three types of snow blowers by class:

Lungs. They are lightweight and also capable of handling small areas.

Light version of the snow blower with plastic auger

Average. The machines are convenient for home use, including for yards with small parameters. They are more powerful than light ones, but they are not professional.

Medium gasoline snow blower with headlights and small skis attached to the bucket

Heavy. This technique is incredibly powerful, able to overcome any drifts and does not fail for a long time. At the same time, snow blowers of this class have a high price. Therefore, they should be purchased only for large areas.

Powerful snow blower with large bucket and long-range snow throw

The next, no less important element that divides snow blowers into types is the auger. It can be of several types:

Plastic. This type of auger is very light and has almost no effect on the overall weight of the structure. This construction is very delicate and can break from heavy and hard snowballs. Therefore, this bucket is suitable for cleaning freshly fallen snow, fluffy and light.

Small size plastic auger for small areas

Metal. The metal itself guarantees reliability. But often manufacturers envelop it with rubber, and this gives additional strength. This auger copes with both soft and wet snow.

Quality metal auger on a crawler snow blower

Steel. Often it is created toothed or spiral. Even icy snow patches can be removed with such a machine; it will not break or crack.

Steel auger. The cutting edge of the augers has aggressive teeth

Self-propelled petrol-powered snow blower Interskol SMB-550 of Russian production

The petrol self-propelled snow blower also comes in two types, according to the snow collection system. The two-stage system is the most popular.The unit is equipped with a rotating impeller mechanism. She, in turn, has special knives that handle snow. With the help of such blades, portions of snow are thrown over long distances.

As for the three-stage system, it is perfect for huge areas, as it is the most durable. Such a system consists of three augers: two on the sides and one in the center. This increases the harvesting power and increases productivity.

When choosing the type of snowplow, it is important to pay attention to individual details, because the quality of snow removal depends on their work

Three-stage snow blower Cub Cadet 526 HD SWE with a fuel tank volume of 4.7 l

Features of operation

Snowblower at work

Compliance with the rules for the use of equipment will significantly increase its service life. The owner of a gasoline snow blower needs:

  • It is good to warm up the engine before starting work so that the grease has time to spread through the gearbox. Full load immediately after starting the motor will quickly lead to wear.
  • Use only low-viscosity engine oils (5W-30, 0W-30, etc.). They have the ability to spray even in frost.
  • Avoid a sharp increase in the load - this must be done gradually, otherwise you can cut off the safety bolts or pins of the auger. The best working conditions for a gasoline engine are with an average snow speed of 20-25 cm.
  • At the end of the snow season, the unit must be mothballed. To do this, gasoline is drained from the gas tank and carburetor, and the used oil in the engine is replaced with fresh oil (so that it does not stratify and does not form sediment).

Popular models

Since such tools have been actively used for quite a long time, the most popular modifications of shovels on wheels can be distinguished.

Electromash

Domestic models are mainly sold on the shelves of Russian specialized supermarkets. This device is also a product that came off the Russian conveyor, which makes it stand out among its analogues by its design features, adapted to the weather and climatic conditions of Russia. The tool has a simple configuration with a large bucket made of high strength 2 mm steel. The blade can be adjusted relative to the location.

Bulldozer

This model of a snow shovel on wheels belongs to the class of a productive mechanism. The width of the working bucket is 80 cm. A distinctive feature of the model is the additional equipment of the blade with a scraper, the main function of which is to protect the component from breakages on the ice crust or asphalt surface of the track. The manufacturer makes the mechanism itself from lightweight metal, which reduces the likelihood of breakdowns during active use or heavy loads on the tool.

Shustrik-3

This is another model of a snow shovel on wheels that stands out among the available range for its good flotation and maneuverability when cornering. The tool is lightweight, due to which it overcomes various obstacles without problems. In addition, if necessary, the device can be moved or rolled on one side. The model moves on two rubberized wheels with a telescopic handle.

Snowball

The shovel is equipped with four wheels, and due to its design, the device is recommended for cleaning areas that have a large area. The tool can be operated by one person or with a partner, which facilitates operation, increases the throughput and cleaning speed. The bucket has a protective frame that prevents the risk of breakage of ice inclusions in snow drifts on the site. Rubberized wheels provide the mechanism with smooth movement, the bucket can be turned, taking different positions and angles of inclination. You can control both from full height and from an incline.

Berchouse

A popular mechanical snow blower, produced by the Russian company of the same name. The tool is recommended for servicing large areas, the bucket width is 82 cm with a depth of 45 cm. The cleaning engine is controlled using a U-shaped handle made of lightweight aluminum alloy, the blade itself is made of frost-resistant polymer.

conclusions

Snow blower at work

Choose a snowplow based on the frequency and extent of use of the device. For daily cleaning of fresh, loose snow, inexpensive and lightweight electric models - Denzel EST-51Li or STIGA ST 8051 AE are ideal. But they need to be pushed and they will last a long time only when used on flat surfaces.

Plots over 500 sq. m it is more rational to clean it with the help of Hyundai S 5556, denzel gsb-53 petrol snow blowers. Aggressive augers made of durable metal of these devices are not afraid of obstacles invisible in the snow and work for a long time without recharging.

Professional gasoline models - Husqvarna ST 224 and MasterYard ML 7522B remain the most comfortable to operate in severe winter conditions. In addition to high productivity, they are equipped with additional functions to make work easier.

If the budget allows, and daily large-scale snow removal on the personal plot is a necessity, then the right solution would be the premium option - the Honda HSM1390IKZE hybrid.

Review of popular snow blowers | Testing and choosing a snowblower

The best snow blowers | TOP-18 Models | Rating + Reviews

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