5 Best Snow Blowers For Large Driveways

And for those who live in the fault lines of annual blizzards, winters aren’t occasions of warming up in front of the fireplace but cleaning up huge piles of snow in the cold.

They understand the incredible difference a snowblower can make in their lives in clearing out that disturbing, slippery ice from a large driveway, patio, or porch.

So, crank up your winters with some of the best snow blowers which we have listed here.

These are some of the best choices currently trending on the market for their durability and high functionality. And we understand how it feels to get lost in a sea of options with a wide array of products all claiming to be the best. For such times, we have included a definitive buyer’s guide as well.

So, without much ado, let’s get straight into the nitty-gritty.

Best Snow Blowers For Large Driveways

Here's the list of the 5 best snow blowers to consider for a hassle-free snow-clearing experience.

1. Greenworks PRO 20-Inch 80V Snow Thrower - Best for Quiet, Cordless Operation

If you didn’t prefer the Yardmax model due to its old recoil start technology, here’s one thrower without any hassle of wires and cables. Like the one from Snow Joe, this is also a cordless blower featuring superb power, clean operations, and a noise-free snow-clearing process. Greenworks is one of those brands which make premium quality outdoor home products with environment-friendliness being their foremost USP.

Why did we like it?

Well, we talked about it all in the product intro, so let’s start with clean operations. The Pro 20-inch model comes with a brushless motor that has 2 advantages. First, brushless means no noise, and you can finally do all the taxing snow clearing any time of the day without waking up your entire neighborhood. Second, apart from delivering more power, brushless motors require a lot less maintenance, and that caters to the overall longevity of the machine.

Moreover, its 20-inch clearing width always manages to swipe the entire functional radius with a single blow, and the 80 V battery delivers smooth, longer runtimes of up to 40 minutes. What’s more, for a full top-up of the battery, it takes a mere 30 minutes, and you can dig through another session of deep snow clearing. 

Talking about snow discharging capabilities, the blower features a 180-degree rotating chute, which can throw the collected snow to a distance of 20 feet. Other than this, the usual features of convenience include an LED light and an instant push-button electric start. All of this combined promises superior performance at an optimum price and also top-notch durability.

What could have been better?

Well, the first issue that upset us is the 80 V battery doesn’t come with the package, and you gotta buy it separately. And one recurring problem that many users have faced is the battery gets jammed during freezing temperatures. So, for the best output, Greenworks advises to keep them at room temperature for 10 minutes before installing it.

2. PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower - Best for Speed Settings Flexibility

When winter arrives, it's essential to have a trustworthy and efficient snow blower to clear up the snow from your driveways, sidewalks, or streets. The PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower is a powerful two-stage gas-powered machine designed to give you reliability and performance in any snowy situation. Let's dive into what we liked about this powerhouse and any areas that could have been improved upon.

Why did we like it?

The PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower truly stands out in the market because of its impressive performance. The powerful 212cc engine ensures that the machine can tackle even the heaviest and iciest snowfalls with ease. The non-slip treaded tires, measuring 13 inches in height, provide excellent grip on snowy and icy terrains, ensuring your safety while using the snowblower.

One of the significant factors that set this product apart from its competitors is the 8-speed settings provided (six forward, two reverse). These options give users the flexibility to adjust the pace of snow clearing based on the snow's depth and severity. Furthermore, the 180-degree chute control with a 40-foot throw makes it convenient to direct the snow in the desired direction while you work.

Additionally, the steel auger design helps cut through snow effortlessly, proving its efficiency in clearing up the snow to a width of 24 inches and a depth of 20 inches. This enables users to clean up larger areas with minimal effort.

What could have been better?

Despite the numerous benefits of the PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower, there are a few drawbacks that users should be aware of. Firstly, the machine has a heavier design compared to some other models in the market. This might make it difficult for some users to maneuver the snow blower, especially in tight spaces or for more extended periods.

3. Ariens Deluxe 30-inch Snow Blower - Best for Heavy Snowfalls and Durability

Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings the inevitable chore of clearing snow from your driveway and walkways. Fortunately, the Ariens Deluxe 30-inch Two-Stage Snow Blower is here to help make this task a whole lot easier. In this review, we will explore the features and performance of this snow blower, so you can decide if it's the right choice for you.

Why did we like it?

The Ariens Deluxe 30-inch Two-Stage Snow Blower is a gas-powered snow blower with a strong 306 cubic centimeters engine, which means it has the power you need to tackle even the most stubborn snow build-up. With a throw distance of up to 50 feet, you can be sure that the snow cleared will not just pile up near your home.

One feature that sets this snow blower apart from its competitors is its auto-turn steering, which makes maneuvering around your property a breeze. This means that you don't need to deal with complicated levers or triggers to control your snow blower. The electric push-button start also ensures that you can get started with your snow-clearing duty without any complications.

Additionally, the Ariens Deluxe 30-inch snow blower is designed with a dual belt system that provides more power, ensuring that even heavy snowfalls can be cleared easily. The all-steel frame adds durability to this snow blower, so it's built to last you for many winters to come.

What could have been better?

One potential downside of this snow blower is that the steel frame may be prone to rust if not properly maintained. This means that you need to take extra care to protect your investment by keeping the snow blower clean and dry when not in use. However, with proper care, this issue can be avoided.

4. Snow Joe SJ627E Snow Blower

The Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower is an excellent option for those looking for an efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly way to clear their driveways and sidewalks. In this review, we will delve into the reasons why this snow blower is worth considering for your snow-clearing needs.

Why did we like it?

The Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Snow Blower is not only affordable but also sustainable, thanks to its corded electric power source. No need to worry about refilling gas or harming the environment with emissions. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, even for users who may not have much strength or experience with snow blowers.

This snow blower also boasts impressive capabilities despite its compact size. It can clear a path that is 22 inches wide and 13 inches high while moving 840 pounds of snow per minute. The dual 5-Watt LED lights are a thoughtful addition, enabling users to work efficiently during early morning or evening hours when visibility may be low.

What could have been better?

While the Snow Joe SJ627E is an excellent option for small to medium-sized driveways and sidewalks, it may not be the best choice for larger areas. Additionally, its corded design may limit mobility for some users, though many find the trade-off of not using gas worthwhile.

5. Greenworks 13 Amp 20-Inch Snow Thrower

And lastly, the Greenworks 13 Amp 20-Inch Corded Snow Thrower presents an affordable and compact option for those who experience lighter snowfalls and don't want to break the bank on high-end alternatives. In this review, we'll dive into the reasons why this Greenworks snow thrower may just be the perfect choice for you.

Why did we like it?

The Greenworks 13 Amp 20-Inch Corded Snow Thrower offers an affordable solution for homeowners who don't need the extra features that often come with pricey models. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, while its electric start ensures trouble-free operation, even on the coldest days. The corded electric power source guarantees uninterrupted performance as long you have access to an outlet.

This snow thrower has the capacity to clear a 20-inch wide and 10-inch deep path with every pass, making it an efficient option for lighter snowfalls. Furthermore, the 20-foot throw distance enables you to put snow where you want it, keeping your pathways and driveways clear and safe.

What could have been better?

The main drawback of this Greenworks snow thrower is its reliance on an extension cord, which limits your mobility and may require you to purchase a separate cord that's appropriate for outdoor use. Additionally, it may not be the best choice for areas with heavier snowfalls, as its 10-inch clearing depth might struggle to handle large amounts of snow at once.

Best Snow Blower Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Snow Blower

We believe we have covered everyone’s needs with this comprehensive list of snow blowers. With eye-catching trends in home design, the variety of driveways is changing. At first, it used to be just concrete, but now their base material is varied and includes gravel, dirt, brick, cobblestone, crushed stone, you name it.

So, if this series of products didn’t suit your needs, here are a few points to keep in mind while going for a snowblower. 

System Type

Well, as you must have already guessed it, this is the first checkpoint to cross. One needs to choose among single-stage, 2-stage, and 3-stage blowers, based on the driveway length, and the amount of snowfall in a region. 

The single-stage blowers are the most inexpensive ones, but usually, work great until 2 feet of light snow. Next comes the dual-stage blowers, which give optimum performance with over 2 feet of snow, both light and dense. And the most advanced 3-stage blowers are massive beasts that have intake depths of over 20 inches, extremely powerful motors, and highly durable tires.

Power Unit type

This is an important point to consider since electric snow blowers don’t have a considerable range of throwing the packed ice. That’s why in this list as well, we’ve focused mostly on the blowers with a gas unit. Yeah, we understand gas blowers come with a leakage problem, but if you check every part thoroughly before buying, you can easily prevent the issue. 

And once this problem is solved, you gotta worry about the throwing range, and electric blowers can’t beat sturdy gas units in these terms.

Clearing width

The catch about going for a high clearing width is it doesn’t ensure that all the snow will be piled up in one swipe. So, to reduce the annoying ups and downs along your driveway, don’t look just for high clearing width, but also how efficient are the augers and impellers. A combination of high clearing width and one-stop cleaning augers seems like a perfect choice for larger driveways.

 

Electric start and power control steering

We suggest you avoid recoil start motors because they tend to get jammed during extremes of weather. Although we’ve included a recoil start thrower in our list, that's mostly due to its durability. An electric start with a single push button is always a better option to look for because no one wants to spend more time switching on the blower than actually operating it.

And talking about power steering, it’s a must-have feature for large driveways. It gives you considerable control over the floor you’re cleaning as you can move each tire the way you want. With blowers that don’t have power steering, clearing up piles of snow from large driveways is quite a hassle. Large driveways mean you gotta cover a lot more distance and navigate through turns, as their designs keep evolving with each passing day. 

The more the number of turns in your driveway, the better control you gotta need in your device.

Snow Blowers FAQs

What are the different types of snow blowers?

There are three main types of snow blowers: single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage. Single-stage snow blowers use an auger to scoop and discharge snow in one motion, making them ideal for light, powdery snowfalls.

Two-stage snow blowers use an auger to scoop the snow and an impeller to throw it, providing more power for heavier snowfalls. Three-stage snow blowers have an additional auger to break up icy, heavy snow before it’s thrown, making them the most powerful option for the toughest snow-clearing tasks.

Should I choose a gas-powered or electric snow blower?

The choice between gas-powered and electric snow blowers depends on your specific needs and preferences. Gas-powered snow blowers generally offer more power and are suitable for larger areas and heavier snowfalls.

However, they require more maintenance and produce emissions. Electric snow blowers are more eco-friendly, quieter, and require less maintenance. They’re best for smaller areas and lighter snowfalls. Cordless electric snow blowers offer more mobility but may have limited runtimes due to battery life.

How do I choose the right size snow blower?

To choose the right size snow blower, consider the size of the area you need to clear and the average snowfall in your region. Smaller, single-stage models are best for smaller areas and lighter snowfalls, while larger, two- or three-stage models are more suitable for larger areas and heavier snowfalls.

Make sure to also consider factors like storage space and ease of maneuverability when selecting the size of your snow blower.

How do I maintain my snow blower?

Maintaining your snow blower is crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Some maintenance tips include checking and changing the oil regularly, inspecting the spark plug and replacing it if necessary, inspecting belts for wear and replacing them if needed, and checking the auger and impeller for damage and wear.

For electric snow blowers, make sure to store the battery properly and charge it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

What safety precautions should I take when using a snow blower?

Using a snow blower requires caution and awareness of potential hazards. Some safety tips include wearing proper footwear for traction, wearing ear protection, keeping children and pets away from the snow blower, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding contact with the auger and impeller when the machine is running.

Additionally, never attempt to clear blockages with your hands – use a clearing tool or stick instead.

Conclusion

Now that you are aware of the basic guidelines to follow while shopping for snowblowers, we thought we could help you out a step further. And what’s a better way to help than giving you our personal preferences out of all the products we mentioned?

If you're looking for a cordless, noise-free, and eco-friendly option, the Greenworks PRO 20-Inch 80V Snow Thrower is an ideal option. Its brushless motor ensures smooth operations, and the design promises a decent clearing width and a fast rechargeable battery for improved performance.

For those in search of a powerful, reliable, and efficient snow blower, the PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower is a good option. Featuring a powerful 212cc engine, eight different speed settings, and an impressive 180-degree chute control, this snow blower will make snow removal a breeze even during heavy snowfalls.

Finally, the Ariens Deluxe 30-inch Snow Blower is the right choice for individuals who need a durable, powerful, and easy-to-operate machine. Its auto-turn steering makes it a breeze to navigate, and the electric push-button start ensures a hassle-free operation.

We hope we could answer all your queries today, and if you have anything that you’d like us to add to this list, mention it in the comments. Stay tuned for more.

Until next time!

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