Craigslist Snowblower (2024)

FAQs

What is a good HP for a snow blower? ›

For occasional use, snow blowers, with around 5 horsepower and one or two speeds, are generally adequate. However, if you intend to clear large amounts of snow, want to work on slopes or if the snow is quite wet, a three-stage device with 10 hp or more is recommended.

While it makes good financial sense to find an affordable snowblower that doesn't break your budget, keep in mind that it isn't worth anything if it can't handle the amount of snow you expect to see each winter. Less expensive snowblowers, generally speaking, are made to handle smaller jobs.

Look for professional snow blowers equipped with an engine of at least 400 CCs. Pick a snow blower clearing width that fits the properties you're servicing. Biggest can be extremely efficient but it isn't always the best option for clearing diverse areas like narrow walkways.

On the other hand, some experts recommend shopping later in the year when most models for the season have been released, and demand is still low. According to Consumer Reports, August and September are the best months to get the lowest prices on snow blowers.

Two-stage snowblowers tend to work faster than single-stage models since their double auger system provides more power when pushing through heavier/wetter snow or clearing larger areas with each pass. The dual blades are also designed for deeper penetration of stubborn snow piles, allowing you to clean up with ease.

While a snowblower costs anywhere from $100 to almost $10,000, most homeowners will pay between $250 and $2,000, but it depends on the type you want and need. Power shovels are an economical option for some assisted shoveling while areas with heavy snow might need a large gas three-stage machine for regular clearing.

Most high-quality snow blowers will last a minimum of 10 years, while top-of-the-line, two-stage snow blowers can give you 20+ years of use when properly cared for.

“Upgrading from a two-stage to a three-stage snow blower adds an accelerator, boosting the power with which snow can be discharged from the chute,” says Misha Kollontai, one of CR's test engineers in charge of snow-blower testing.

18-22 Inches: Ideal for small driveways and sidewalks with lighter snowfall. Compact and easy to maneuver. 24-28 Inches: A versatile mid-range size suitable for moderate to heavy snowfall. Good for medium-sized driveways and walkways.

Heavy snow can quickly clog the chute, reducing the snow blower's efficiency. Regularly check and clear the chute as you work.

How much snow is too little for a snowblower? ›

Is there a minimum amount of snow required to use a snowblower? There is no hard and fast rule about using a snowblower on a specific amount of inches, but most snow removal experts suggest using one on 2 or more inches of snow for best results.

All in all, we recommend the Ariens Classic snow blower to anyone looking for a machine that's a breeze to maneuver up and down hills and can cut through heavy, wet snow like a dream.

Drain the Fuel

​Even if the gas has been stabilized, we recommend completely draining your snow blower's fuel system before storing it away for the season. Gas oxidizes and breaks down over time, creating sludge that can build up inside your snow blower's fuel tank, carburetor and fuel lines.

Let the machine run for at least five minutes to let the engine time to warm up, fuel to run through the system, etc. Engage the drive and auger a couple times to make sure all is working as it should too.

Looking at the horsepower that your machine has is an important aspect to choosing the size of your box plow. To push an 8 foot BOSS box plow, you'll need a minimum of 45+ horsepower on a skid steer. To push some of our larger plows, like the LDR 16 foot box plow, you need a minimum of 170+ horsepower.

IMO, you need at least 8HP and a two stage for a snowblower in this area. With 8HP and two stage you should be able to tackle 98% of storms or better. Your 178cc is likely around 5.5HP or 6HP more or less. That until will likely tackle 90% of storms.

18-22 Inches: Ideal for small driveways and sidewalks with lighter snowfall. Compact and easy to maneuver. 24-28 Inches: A versatile mid-range size suitable for moderate to heavy snowfall. Good for medium-sized driveways and walkways.

Maximum performance is driven by the 254cc engine that also offers up to 8.5 HP and a friction disc transmission, allowing you to change speeds in rough conditions.