What You Need to Know Before Buying an Electric Snow Blower

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You’ve decided you’re done with the snow shovel and are ready to invest in a snow blower. Electric snow blowers are a good option since they are eco-friendly, easy to operate and quieter than gas-powered models.

Here are some things to know before investing in an electric snow blower.

Before you read on, check out these 15 things you need to know about buying a snow blower.

Snow Depth

Electric snow blowers are a good option when you need to clear snow no more than a foot deep. Since electric models are lightweight, they are good for cleaning off both walkways and driveways, along with decks and patios where many gas-powered models won’t fit. Electric snow blowers come in various sizes and are able to accommodate most snowfalls.

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Corded vs Battery Models

Corded snow blowers can throw up to 700 pounds of snow per minute, which is plenty of power for most homeowners. While a corded snow blower is a good choice, just remember you will need a cold-weather extension cord and outlet. So depending on the space you need to clear, you may be limited by cord length.

There are a small, but growing number of battery-powered electric snow blowers on the market, however, according to Consumer Reports, many lack the power to clear heavy snow. Battery-powered models may be a good choice if you have a very small space to clear since you’ll be trading performance for convenience. Battery models start instantly and are best suited for light snow in space where you’d usually just reach for a broom or shovel.

Electric Snow Blower Maintenance

Since electric snow blowers have no liquids that will need to be changed or small parts that need to be cleaned, they are relatively maintenance-free. Just store the snow blower in a dry place to keep it running properly. You’ll also want to remember to keep your extension cord untangled and hung up when not in use and check regularly for cracks and other damage.

Learn how to change the oil in your gas-powered snow blower.

Potential Issues

If you live in an area where you get a lot of snow, or heavy, wet snow, an electric snow blower may not be your best choice. Most electric snow blowers can’t handle as much snow as gas-powered models, so you may have to go out and use the electric model more often to keep the path clear.

In addition, the length of the cord can limit your snow blower’s reach. Plus, the cord can become tangled in the machinery.

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