If you have already done some preliminary shopping then you know that snow blowers (also known as snow throwers) vary in price range. You can find the cheapest versions for just under 0 and the most expensive versions at over 00. On the cheaper side, these models are engineered to handle moderate snow conditions. The more expensive versions are heavy-duty models that are used in areas where there is heavy snowfall. When all is said and done, there are only two things that you need to consider before buying a snow blower: the amount of snow you expect to receive and the amount of space you have for storage.
Single-Stage Electric Snow Blowers
The single-stage electric blower is a blower that is both small and does not have any driven wheels. This particular blower actually uses a rubber-tipped auger that propels the machine along while picking up and throwing snow along the way.
This type of blower works best on level driveways that are not too long in length. This particular type of blower also works very well on decks and snow-covered walkways. This particular type of blower can handle snowfall that is less than four inches.
Single-stage electric blowers are lightweight, easy to store and easy to handle. One thing you should keep in mind is that this particular blower type has a power cord so you are somewhat limited in length.
Single-Stage Gas Snow Blowers
The gas-powered version of the single-stage snow thrower is more powerful than the electric version. As far as driveway size is concerned, this type of blower can handle mid-size level driveways. Just like the electric version, these blowers are good for decks and walkways. The gas-powered version can handle twice the amount of snow compared to the electric version - up to eight inches.
These blowers are light in weight, easy to store and very easy to handle. You will need both gas and oil to operate this type of blower but you won't have a power cord to deal with.
Two-Stage Gas Snow Blowers
Much like the single-stage blower, the two-stage gas snow thrower also uses a powerful auger to pick up and throw snow while moving. However, the two-stage unit has a fan-like impeller above the auger that throws the snow out of the chute on the "second" stage - hence the name "two-stage" blower.
This type of blower is much larger than the single-stage types. It should also be noted that the two-stage gas blower is wheel driven rather than auger-driven. And because of the size of these machines, they can easily sweep up to 30 inches of snow along with sweeping snow off steep slopes.
Conclusion
The single-stage electric snow blower, single-stage gas snow blower and two-stage gas snow blower all have their different advantages and disadvantages. The type that you should end up purchasing should depend on amount of snowfall and capacity of storage space.
And once you have decided which type to purchase, read all available snow blower reviews.
