With the frigid frost of winter comes cozy evenings in your cashmere sweater, sipping hot chocolate and snuggling up in one of your favorite heated blankets.
What’s unexpected and quite inconvenient at times, however, is impending winter storms — much like much-anticipated blows (or spur-of-the-moment snowfalls) that can drop mounds of white before you know it.
On top of the other online shopping orders you have pending in your cart, it’s your best bet to snag a snow blower that’ll equip you for those pesky flakes. Especially with the impending snowstorms the NYC area has been experiencing.
“A snow blower is a machine designed to remove snow from surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks and roads,” Andrea Saenz, chief operational officer and owner at Novus Snow and Ice Management — a company servicing more than 200 locations in New York City — told the New York Post. “It operates by propelling snow away from the cleared area, making it a convenient and time-saving alternative to traditional manual shoveling.”
Perhaps one of the best snow blowers we rounded up below will come in time for this weekend with fast-shipping options (if not, that’ll blow — ha!), but it’s still a good idea to order, stash it in your garage or storage unit and let the adage “better safe than sorry” live on this winter.
From top picks on Amazon to winter scores at Ace Hardware, check out the mighty outdoor equipment that’ll clear the snow (so you can spend more time sipping on hot chocolate).
Be sure to check out our in-depth FAQ section — backed by our snow removal expert — for more on snow blowers and how to use them.
Toro Power Max 824 Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
“Novus Snow and Ice Management, we endorse the use of TORO snow blowers for New York City sidewalks,” Saenz told The Post. “Their exceptional flexibility, ease of maneuvering and compact design make them exceptionally well-suited for conquering the unique challenges presented by urban environments.”
As always, Novus Snow and Ice Management emphasized the importance of regular maintenance and adherence to safety guidelines “to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your snow blower investment,” Saenz said.
Specifically, its 24-inch-wide clearing width and 20-inch intake height allow you to quickly remove the deepest snow. Its state-of-the-art quick stick control allows you to change the steel chute direction and chute deflector with a single, smooth motion.
Its level is one-hand-operable, freeing the other hand to change speeds or adjust the chute control without stopping.
Snow Joe Electric Snow Blower
Get your hands on a model that more than 1,000 Amazon shoppers are flocking to — the Snow Joe Electric Snow Blower. With more than 16,000 applauding reviews, this particular product is renowned for being an excellent value, easy to use and lightweight when operating.
Even better, its 15-amp electric motor moves up to 25 tons per hour of snow, while clearing a 22-inch by 13-inch path in a single pass. Now that’s impressive.
Oh, and it’ll come within two days — perfect for staying prepared for this season’s winter storms.
Ariens Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
“For those seeking a more powerful solution, Ariens has proven to be a dependable choice in our experience,” Saenz noted. “Their snow blowers are not only powerful but also durable, rarely experiencing breakdowns. Spare parts for Ariens products are readily available, ensuring ease of maintenance.”
Additionally, plenty of models are readily available to order from online but, based on our research, this one in particular seems to be the best value. Namely, it boasts an intake height of 20 inches and a 24-inch clearing path. It’s also self-propelled with six forward and two reverse speeds.
Greenworks 20″ Brushless Cordless Snow Blower
The brand revered for its lawn mowers has equally-as-good snow blowers to consider this season. In particular, we recommend the Greenworks 20″ Brushless Cordless Snow Blower. With a battery and charger included, you’ll appreciate how it clears a 20-inch path with ease, tackling up to 10 inches of snow depth effortlessly.
PowerSmart Gas-Powered Snow Blower
If you’re seeking a gas-powered snowblower, PowerSmart is your best bet. It’s ideal for a 10-foot car driveway and six to 10 inches of snow (which, if you’re in New York or even elsewhere, this baby should have you covered).
Ego Power+ Cordless Snow Blower
As an Amazon’s Choice product, Ego Power+’s Cordless Snow Blower is a monster machine, throwing snow up to 40 feet and cutting throw ice 50% faster, thanks to its steel auger cutting it during transmission.
Plus, its brushless motor makes it possible to clear 21 foot-wide path of snow.
Snow Joe Cordless Snow Blower
As an Amazon’s Choice product, you can’t match the quality and price combo Snow Joe’s Cordless Snow Blower provides. Not only is it currently on sale but it’s battery-powered, cleans 14 tons of snow per charge and comes with two LED headlights for working it at night.
Arnold Deluxe Universal Snow Thrower Cab
This Bob the Builder-esque snow blower cab is too practical and adorable to pass up. It’s one of Amazon’s favorites, too, though you must purchase a snow blower separately. The durable, clear vinyl cab will protect you from tough winter winds while plowing and can be zipped up to reveal the dash light, making it easier to see your pathway.
Toro Power Gas Snow Blower Electric Start
Enter Ace Hardware’s top-selling snow blower: the Toro Power Curve Electric. It boasts a 160-degree chute, has an ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip while using and can blow snow up to 30 feet.
Craftsman Gas Snow Blower
The debate between gas versus electric snow blowers can, at times, be dividing. But, Craftsman’s Gas Snow Blower is one of the longest-lasting models you’ll come across (trust us, this one has lived in our garages for over a decade).
Not only is it relatively affordable compared to others on the market, but it effectively removes three to six feet of snow with its ergonomic gull-wing handle.
Ariens Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower with Push-Button Electric Start
Shy of $1,150 comes Ariens’ Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower. With a convenient push-button electric start, the ability to clear in 24-inches in height of snow and its six forward and two reverse speeds, it’ll make snow-blowing a snap.
John Deere Two-Stage Snow Blower
Ah, a snowblower you can ride on! This extraordinary model is a splurge, but well worth it if you want to clear your snow-ridden path in style. Plus, it includes tire chains and weights for optimal performance.
Kobalt Cordless Electric Snow Blower
For a no-frills option that’s still electric, Kobalt’s $200 model is worth picking up for those “just in case” moments. Its brushless motor, LED headlights and electric chute direction make it a solid pick for the price.
An FAQ on Snow Blowers
Ahead, our snow removal expert gives us the 411 on snow blowers — including what to look for. Oh, and the tips below are sure to *blow* you away.
What are the benefits of using a snow blower?
Owning a snow blower offers several advantages, of which Saenz lists and describes:
- Efficiency: Snow blowers significantly reduce the time and effort required for snow removal.
- Convenience: They are easy to maneuver, especially in tight spaces like New York City sidewalks.
- Precision: Snow blowers provide precise control over the direction and distance of snow discharge.
- Reduced Physical Strain: Using a snow blower is less physically demanding than manual shoveling.
What different types of snow blowers exist on the market?
There are mainly three types of snow blowers. Luckily, Saenz explains them below:
- Single-Stage: Ideal for light snowfalls, these are compact and easy to handle.
- Two-Stage: Suitable for heavier snow, these models have a drill to break up and move snow and an impeller to discharge it.
- Three-Stage: Designed for extreme conditions, these include an accelerator to chop and move ice and snow more efficiently.
How do you best maintain a snow blower? Where should a snow blower be stored?
“Proper maintenance involves regular checks of oil levels, spark plugs and belts, as well as keeping the auger and chute clear,” Saenz explains. “Storing the snow blower in a dry, cool place, and following the manufacturer’s guidelines for off-season storage, helps prolong its life.”
What power specifications should a snow blower have?
The power specifications depend on the scale of snow removal needs.
“For residential use and smaller areas, electric single-stage snow blowers are often sufficient,” Saenz notes. “For larger areas or commercial use, a gas-powered two-stage or three-stage snow blower with sufficient horsepower is recommended.”
Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.