When making any large purchase, it’s important to carefully consider your needs and your options—buying a snowblower is no different. With no shortage of models to choose from and the winter snow on the way, here are the top factors you need to consider when choosing a snowblower.
Types of Snowblowers
There are several basic types of snowblowers, ordered here by smallest to largest size:
- Electric or cordless snowblowers: small, battery or electricity-powered, and best for areas that don’t receive a lot of snow
- Single-stage snowblowers: gas powered, compact, maneuverable, and lightweight
- Two-stage snowblowers: gas powered with a larger mouth and collection augers to break up snow
- Three-stage snowblowers: gas powered with a third auger to further cut through heavy snow and ice
Amount of Snow
The amount of snow you typically receive should be your primary consideration when choosing a snowblower. The more snow you get, the bigger your snowblower should be. Electric snowblowers, depending on the model, are perfect for clearing light snow—less than 12 inches. On the opposite end of the scale, some two and three-stage snowblowers can easily tackle upwards of 20 inches of snow, making them a better choice for the unpredictable Minnesota winters.
- Electric or cordless snowblowers: clears up to 12”
- Single-stage snowblowers: clears up to 18”
- Two-stage snowblowers: clears up to 23”
- Three-stage snowblowers: clears up to 23”
Size of Plowing Area
When choosing a snowblower, you should also consider the size of the area you need to clear. Are you looking to clear a commercial parking lot or a short driveway? The larger the snowblower, the larger the clearing width will be, and the faster the job will get done.
- Electric or cordless snowblowers: clearing width of 12-18”
- Single-stage snowblowers: clearing width of 18-22”
- Two-stage snowblowers: clearing width of 20-38”
- Three-stage snowblowers: clearing width of 24-30”
Snow Type
Lastly, consider the snow type you usually receive in your area. Again, snowblowers on the larger end of the scale will more easily tackle wet, heavy snow, whereas an electric or cordless snowblower is best suited for lightweight snowfall.
- Electric or cordless snowblowers: light and fluffy snow
- Single-stage snowblowers: light and wet snow
- Two-stage snowblowers: wet and heavy snow
- Three-stage snowblowers: wet and heavy snow
If you’re not sure which kind of snowblower is best for your usage this winter, ask the experts at Mimbach Fleet to help. Call us at 320-252-1682 or stop into our location in Sauk Rapids to speak to a sales associate—we’re happy to help!
