Best Commercial Snow Blowers – Buyer’s Guide 2022
Living in an area that witnesses harsh winters with massive snowfall or worse snowstorms, a snowblower can make life more comfortable. Powered by an auger that scoops up the snow and pushes it upward through the discharge chute, these machines can clear driveways, sidewalks, decks, and more. Power is supplied to the auger with paddles or metal blades.
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Types of Snow Blowers
Electric Snow Blowers:
Electric snow blowers are the smallest snow throwing machines available in the market. They are equipped with a rubber-lined corkscrew-shaped auger that breaks up snow and then lifts and tosses it through the chute. Electric snow blowers are ideal for patios, short, level driveways, walkways, and small-to-medium-sized driveways with less than 6 inches of snow. Resembling the size of a small walk-behind lawnmower, electric snow blowers are lighter than their gas counterparts, making them easy to maneuver through the snow. These machines are relatively economical and quieter than gas-powered models.
Electric snow blowers are available in cordless or corded options. Since they don’t require oil changes or refueling, you don’t have to deal with a pull cord start-up or messy emissions. However, a power cord can limit range and maneuverability. Electric snow blowers are more limited in clearing power and also usually have a narrower clearing path.
Also, keep in mind that the auger can also pick up and throw rocks if you have a gravel-based driveway, so keep people and pets a safe distance away.
Battery-Powered Snow Blowers
Battery-powered snow blowers start instantly and eliminate the need for gas, oil, or engine maintenance but trade performance for convenience. They don’t pack enough power for most circumstances. Some models can clear up to nine inches of snow, but they are more suited for a light dusting on decks and walkways due to their limited capacity.
Gas Snow Blowers
Gas-powered snow blowers are more suited for heavy-duty lifting as they are more powerful and have greater clearing widths and intake heights to power through serious amounts of snow, including wet, heavy snow. These snow blowers are ideal for areas that consistently experience heavy snowfalls. Gas-type blowers require more maintenance and need access to fuel. Since they are heavier, a gas snow thrower can be more challenging to maneuver. Gas snow blowers have good mobility since they don’t need a power cord to operate.
Single-Stage Gas Snow Blowers
Single-stage gas blowers are made for moderate snow build-up and can easily remove snow from paved surfaces. The gas-powered single-stage snowblowers work in one motion, utilizing a scoop-like auger to shovel and funnel out the snow through the chute. Single-stage gas snow blowers are ideal for level, midsized, paved driveways and walkways with up to 9 inches of snow.
Single-stage gas blowers are small and lightweight, making them ideal for maneuvering in tight areas and only take as much storage space as a mower. These machines can clear a large swath (20 to 22 inches) and will typically clear a 2 feet wide path with each pass. These models feature four-stroke gas engines that don’t need oil, and some models are equipped to offer electric starting.
Single-stage gas blowers should be avoided being used in a graveled area, as the auger touches the ground, and will throw everything it collects to the side that can lead to tearing up grass or turning debris into high-speed projectiles. While they can handle removing high quantities of light, dry snow, they can struggle with heavier wet snow. Single-stage gas blowers generally lack a self-propelled element, which means you have to push the machine forward. These machines have modest pulling power and tend to veer sideways on steep slopes.
Two-Stage Gas Snow Blowers
Dual-stage Gas snowblowers are bigger, heavier, and more powerful than single-stage snow blowers and are built to handle heavy snow accumulation. These machines are equipped with an impeller fan in addition to the auger that helps propel the snow into the intake chute—helping them clear snow faster and send it farther. Since the auger on a dual-stage model doesn’t make contact with the ground, it can clear snow on uneven surfaces or gravel-based driveways.
Two-stage gas snow blowers are ideal for long, wide driveways with snow levels of up to 16 inches. These machines can clear a swath up to 30 inches wide and can handle steeper inclines. Two-stage gas blowers are made out of sturdy materials and can handle wet snow and ice, and feature a self-propelled mechanism that allows plowing the machine through a long stretch of snow without slowing down.
Two-stage snow blowers are heavier, expensive, and take up considerable storage space. Also, since the auger on dual-stage models doesn’t directly contact the surface, it may leave a thin layer of snow.
Three-Stage Gas Snow Blowers
Three-Stage Gas Snowblowers are built for the harshest winters and power through the heaviest snow and ice. These machines can handle high snowdrifts and over 20 inches of snow of the wet and heavy variety.
Operationally similar to conventional two-stage machines, a three-stage blower uses an accelerator in addition to the auger and impeller fan setup, which means much faster snow removal, greater clearing capacity, and longer throwing distances. This accelerator spins perpendicular to the auger like a screw to scoop up the snow, resulting in a faster snow collection and forcing it into the discharge impeller that launches it out at high speed. Some 3-stage models can launch snow and ice as far as fifty feet. Most triple-stage snow moving machines come with serrated augers to slice through slush and solid ice. These machines are especially valuable in clearing tall snowdrift or the snow wall behind by a snowplow. Three-stage gas blowers can clear a 30-inch-wide swath and can clear snowfalls anywhere from 1 to 2 feet.
Most three-stage snow blowers come with bells and whistles that will make snow blowing more comfortable, including heated handgrips, electric start, power steering, and chutes with greater throwing distances. These machines are bulky, expensive, and take up a lot of storage space in a garage or shed.
Why Commercial Snow Blower
If you live in a climate where your ability to go to work depends on daily digging your way out of a mountain of snow-packed driveway, or if you are into a snow removal business, a small snowblower might not be powerful enough to disperse large drifts or deep, wet snow. Most commercial owners use a snowblower more on one snowfall than a residential owner would for an entire year.
Commercial snow blowers work faster to throw more heavy snow and ice, so you’re done and able to move onto the next property in no time. Commercial snow blowers are built with heavy-duty components and can handle around two feet of wet, heavy snow and have a larger clearing width that can handle hills and uneven ground with no problem.
Features to Consider in a Snow Blower
Adjustable Impeller Chutes: Many chutes can be adjusted to change the snow discharge direction so that you don’t accidentally throw slush onto mailboxes or other areas on your property.
Chute articulation: Adjustable models enable rotating the direction of the chute from the dash by using a hand-crank, joystick, or electric switch, allowing you to precisely direct the snow as you maneuver curves.
Heated handles: Some Snowblowers are equipped with heated grips to keep your fingers warm and comfortable during snowy conditions and when the temperatures are really low.
Headlights: Snowblowers with headlights make it easier to navigate and clear snow in the dark early hours, especially on short winter days.
Push-button start: Electric starters keep you from having to pull multiple times on the cord to get your thrower going on frigid mornings.
Snowblower cab: Blowback is an unpleasant part of the snow clearing process. A snow cab is a small shelter attached to the snow thrower that minimizes your exposure from snow during removal and will also help block any icy wind that may be blowing your way.
Drift cutters: These tools feature narrow steel bands on the sides of the auger that slices through hard-packed, icy snowdrifts, making it easier to power your way through and efficiently clear walkways.
Speed control: Units with this feature include multiple forward and reverse speeds to ensure comfortable use.
Covers: Durable weatherproof fabric drape used to protect the snowblower when not in use.
Skid shoes: Metal or composite attachments that act as a spacer that keeps the bottom of your snowblower from touching the surface of your driveway. This keeps the concrete from being scratched and ensures greater safety by keeping stones or gravel out of the snow blower’s path.
Hydrostatic drive: It gives you a broader speed range and better speed control over the self-propelled snowblower.
Snowblower tire chains give engine-powered wheels on a self-propelled snowblower better traction, making it easier to maneuver.
A heavy-duty snowblower floor mat will protect the floor of your garage or storage shed from scratches, water, and stains.
Additional Features: Select snow blower models are equipped with trigger control power steering that allows you to operate each wheel/track separately, providing superior maneuverability and room for tight 180° turning.
You can also find snow blower attachments for lawnmowers that let you take advantage of the power offered by a riding mower’s engine to clear snow. These snow-moving mower attachments typically have a wider clearing path than walk-behind models — up to 54 inches — and are available in two-stage and three-stage models. Ensure the attachment fits your mower model and consider installing a set of compatible tire chains on your mower.
How to Buy the Right Commercial Snow Blower (Buyer’s Guide)
Clearing Width: Most snow blowers come with clearing widths between 20 and 25 inches. Narrower clearing widths would require more passes to clean the driveway or sidewalk. A wider clearing width will help in faster snow removal and reduce the chore time.
Speed Control: Most snow blowers come with a single-speed option, but some high-end models are equipped with variable speed control that will let you move faster as per the work requirements. Check the lever location. If it’s out of reach or hard to use, it will not be beneficial.
Tire Chains: Snow blower’s tires may slide and lose traction as you work during slippery conditions. Avoid this safety hazard and improve your machine’s handling by adding a set of tire chains to your snow blower’s tires.
Warranty: Most snowblowers come with around two to three years of warranty. However, most warranties are dramatically reduced if the snow blowing machines are used for commercial purposes.
Intake Height: Intake height refers to how high snow can pile up before your snowblower is unable to function effectively. To make sure you’re covered, look for a model with an intake height a few inches taller than typical snowfall so you can be prepared in the event of a massive snowstorm.
Best Commercial Snow Blowers
1. Husqvarna ST430T Two-Stage Track Drive Snow Blower
Featuring Husqvarna’s Premium 420cc Electronic fuel injection (EFI) 4-Cycle Engine, the ST430T is designed for experts who want maximum-performance for commercial applications. The Husqvarna branded EFI engine delivers enhanced power and fuel efficiency with reduced emissions. This two-stage gas-powered Husqvarna has a 30-inch clearing width that makes quick work of heavy jobs.
The Husqvarna ST430T comes with a heavy-duty cast-iron auger gearbox and housing that can operate efficiently in extremely wet snow or tightly packed snow by grinding it down before discharging it through the impeller. The ribbon-style auger and high-speed impeller can launch snow up to 40 feet. The Husqvarna ST430T features a remote chute deflector that helps you control and change the throwing direction with a lever on the panel.
The Husqvarna ST430T comes with a cleated track-drive system that delivers unbeatable propulsion on inclines, slippery surfaces, and deep snow. Convenient lever-controlled power steering allows you to operate each wheel/track separately for superior maneuverability and tight 180-degree turning. The machine comes with adjustable auger height that enables you to control space between the auger bucket underside and the ground; this feature comes in handy when working on uneven or gravel surfaces. The machine features an interlocking handle for easy one-handed operation, which is extremely useful if you need to adjust the chute on the fly.
The Husqvarna ST430T includes a best-in-class electric starter that ensures you’ll never have to worry about a dead battery. The device also features heated handle grips for more comfortable operation in a cold climate and bright LED headlights to assist in dark conditions. The gearbox and impeller each come with a 10-year Limited Warranty for years of trouble-free snow removal.
Pros
- EFI Engine
- Long Warranty
- Heavy-Duty Materials
- Cleated Track Drive System
Cons
- Challenging to setup
Why Buy: The heavy-duty Husqvarna ST 430 can handle all types of snowy conditions with ease. The machine is made from durable materials and features a best-in-class electric starter, all-steel control panel, continuous track treads, and cast-iron impeller fan.
2. Troy-Bilt Arctic Storm Two-Stage Gas Snow Thrower
Powered by a 420cc electric start gas engine, the Troy-Bilt Artic Storm can withstand the wettest and toughest snow. The two-stage snow thrower features 14-inch serrated steel augers and a durable rugged steel chute that can clear snowy pathways up to 34 inches wide in just one quick pass. This machine comes with an electric 4-way chute control that allows you to change pitch and direction of snow and avoid blowback during usage.
The Troy-Bilt Artic Storm’s 16”x 6.5” X-Trac tires provide traction and gripping in all types of winter conditions. The self-propelled snow blower comes with heated hand grips and Touch ‘N Turn steering allows for easy operation and also includes high impact, adjustable polymer skid shoes that protect surfaces from scuffing. The Troy-Bilt Artic Storm is manufactured in USA and backed by a 5-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and operate
- Heavy Duty Performance
- Durable build quality
Cons
- The built-in headlight’s beam is blocked by the chute and the chute-operator housing.
Why Buy: The Troy-Bilt Artic Storm is built like a beast but pivots on a dime. The storm thrower can tackle any kind of snowy conditions with ease. The low-rise handles ensure that it can be handled by people with low height easily.
3. Honda Power Equipment HSS1332AAT 389cc
The Honda HSS1332AA packs serious snow clearing power from its legendary fuel-efficient commercial-grade GX390 engine. This engine features automatic decompression, making it easier to start in cold weather, and carries plenty of grunt to power through harshest weather conditions. The HSS1332AAT is equipped with an ice-breaking, heavy-duty, serrated auger and can clear a 32-inch wide path at 2750 lb./min and throw snow up to 56 feet.
The HSS1332AA features Honda’s exclusive hydrostatic, infinitely variable speed transmission that allows you to match the ground speed with snow conditions effortlessly and enables the machine to quickly burrow through snowdrifts. The transmission disengagement is simple, making for easy transporting with the engine off. The pliable, low-temperature rubber tracks with sure-gripping cleats deliver superior traction through practically any snow condition. The four-direction electric joystick chute control allows managing snow discharge easily.
The HSS1332AA is easy to control, with a single lever accurately adjusts ground speed without affecting the auger rotation speed. Honda’s skid shoes are made from extremely durable materials for extended-lasting use; additionally, they are reversible; hence you get double the life from a single set. The machine also features easy scraper bar height adjustment to adjust the aggressiveness of the scraper. The unit arrives assembled, oil and gas will need to be added before initial use.
Pros
- Removes massive amount of snow
- Good ice-breaking capability
- Easy to Operate
Cons
- Heavy
Why Buy: The compact HSS1332AA has more than enough horsepower to go through and clear all types of snow and throw It higher and farther. The joystick controls make placing the blown snow so much easier and faster. Ease of operations ensures no sorer wrist or arms after heavy snowstorms.
Safety Precautions
Caution: Read and thoroughly follow the device manufacturer’s operating, maintenance, and safety instructions, including instructions on safety gear.
Check the oil before using your snowblower. Only add fuel before using your snowblower or once the engine has cooled down; do not add fuel while the machine is running.
Only operate/turn on your snowblower outdoors, including your closed garage, to avoid carbon monoxide hazards.
Before you begin using your snowblower, clear the area of any objects or debris that could get caught in your machine or thrown. Ensure that the clearing area is free of items like sleds, doormats, toys, or anything else that could clog your device.
If your snowblower gets clogged, ensure that the engine is turned off and the blades had stopped rotating before trying to clear the clog. Never use hands or feet to clear snow from a snowblower. Use a cleanout tool attachment to remove a clogged discharge shoot.
Bonus – Maintenance Tips
Like any tool or piece of power equipment, regular maintenance, and a seasonal tune-up will help your snowblower operating efficiently for years.
- Ensure proper covered storage of the snowblower in the off-season to prepare for next season’s snow.
- Meticulously wash and hand-dry your snowblower at the end of the winter.
- Always switch off the fuel flow whenever you transport the snowblower to prevent fuel spills and protect the carburetor from flooding.
- Check and change snowblower oil every season. Always use 4-stroke engine oil. It will be an added advantage if you can use oil specifically formulated for cold weather.
- If you use the snowblower heavily, consider changing the spark plugs before pulling out the machine for the new season.
- Snow, by nature, causes heavy rust and scratches. Over time, this can damage your snowblower, shortening life and durability. Using a rust-proof or rust preventative paint can aid in keeping away the bulk of rust issues.
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