The best gas snow blowers and snowblowers for your toughest winter jobs – Chicago Tribune

Clearing snow and ice from your driveway and sidewalks is a priority. Shoveling is hard on your body and can take a long time. Snow blowers are an easy and powerful way to blow snow and keep your driveway safe and clear for cars and guests.

Gas-powered snow blowers are some of the most powerful options available. These motors produce significant power to clear deep, dense snow that electric blowers struggle with. They also run longer with large gas tanks and have features such as self-propelled transmission.

The size of your space matters

If you have a large property with many areas that require snow blowing, a gas-powered blower is your best choice. Extra long and wide driveways will need longer run times and additional power to move large amounts of snow.

Depth and type of snow are important

While electric snow blower technology has improved over the years, there is no substitute for gas-powered blowers when it comes to deep, heavy snow. If you live in an area that receives frequent snowfall and also wet, heavy snowfall, gas-powered engines are the most powerful engines for blowing away the deepest and heaviest snowfalls.

Two-stage and single-stage engines

Most gas snow blowers have two-stage engines. Some commercial gas-powered models have three-stage engines. Two-stage motors are more powerful than single-stage models. A single-stage blower uses just one movement of the auger to lift snow and then throw it into the chute. A two-stage motor lifts the snow, but then includes a powerful impeller that blasts the snow. Two-stage blowers can handle heavier snow and blow it much farther distances.

They’re built for the long haul

Gas powered snow blowers are made of steel. They are designed to withstand the harshest elements and are extremely durable. They can hit mailboxes, light poles, and other objects near the driveway without causing any damage. They can be stored safely knowing they have a sturdy outer casing.

There are limitations

Like all powered equipment, gas-powered snow blowers have drawbacks that you need to balance with their impressive features.

They are expensive compared to electric blowers, especially corded models. They are also very heavy. If you must lift a gas-powered blower onto a facility or step, you need to be careful to protect your back and the blower itself.

Gas blowers are also known to be noisy. If you live in a neighborhood with many attached houses, your neighbors may recognize your snow blower personally, especially if it is turned on early in the morning or late at night.

In addition to noise, gas blowers emit pungent fumes. These fumes contain carbon monoxide, so you should only run your blower outdoors. Depending on the wind direction, these fumes may be blown back into your face.

And finally, when a gas-powered fan needs to be repaired, it is usually more expensive than electric models. Similar to a car, the belts and electronics that make up the gas blower are not cheap to replace. Fortunately, most gas blowers have comprehensive warranties.

The best gas snow blowers and snow throwers

Husqvarna 24 Inch Two Stage Snowblower

This snowblower is designed to clear large driveways with a friction disc transmission. It has heated grips, adjustable handlebar, LED headlights and electric starter.

M Massimo Engine 24 Inch Snow Cleaning Machine

This affordable snow blower features an electric starter for easy operation in all weather conditions. It has six forward and two reverse gears and comes with a one-year warranty.

Ariens Deluxe 30 Inch Snow Removal Machine

This two-stage blower has an electric start and a large inlet measuring 30 inches by 21 inches. It can throw snow up to 50 meters. Comes with snow tires, headlight and steel chute.

Honda 24 Inch Hydrostatic Wheel Drive Snowblower

Featuring a hydrostatic, variable speed transmission and GX200 engine, this blower is reliable and fuel efficient. It has electric joystick control of the shot and has 14-inch pneumatic tires.

Prices listed reflect the time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily offers Sign up to see the best products at the best prices Here To receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter, full of shopping information and discounts.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best choices to most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.