Snow blowers have changed very little over the last fifty years. Perhaps the most notable innovation is the creation of electric models. These plug-in snow blowers are easier to use and smaller than conventional gas blowers, but aren't right for everyone.
Electric snow blowers run entirely on electricity from a power outlet. People like them because you don't have to worry about running out of gas and there is no oil to change. They start with a push of a button- no need to yank a starter cord! They are also lightweight, easy to maneuver, and relatively quiet.
Because of these advantages, electric blowers have become very popular in households across the nation, especially among the elderly and less mechanically inclined. They are also cheaper than their gas counterparts, available for as little as 0. As popular as they may be, electric snow blowers do have limitations you should take into consideration before buying one.
First and foremost, they are much less powerful than gas snow blowers. Their small size means they are only suitable for smaller driveways, walkways, and porches. They can't handle large amounts of snow at once. A typical electric blower will be able to handle six inches of the white stuff at once whereas a gas snow thrower might be able to handle up to two feet in one pass!
If one thing limits the power of an electric snow blower, it's the length of the extension cord. Gas blowers can go anywhere. Electric models can only go as far as the electric cord will reach. Thankfully, this can be alleviated by buying an extension cord or two. One common hazard with electric blowers is running over the cord. Know where the cord is at all times and never try to pass over it.
When people ask me for advice on what snow blower to buy, I only recommend an electric blower if they live in a milder climate or have only a small area to clear. There's no need for a heavy gas blower if you only get ten inches of snow a year or are only responsible for clearing a patch of sidewalk.
But even if you have a large driveway or get a lot of snow, you still might want to invest in an electric blower. Electric snow blowers are a great accessory to have around. I keep a large gas blower in my driveway, but have a small electric in my shed for clearing my porch, for instance. Many homes have corners and crevices where operating a large machine just isn't practical.
Electric snowblowers are a great innovation. Small, easy to use, and requiring little maintenance, they are perfect for smaller jobs. Those with large driveways who get a lot of snow will find such a blower lacking, however, and should invest in a heavier gas blower. Of course, you can clear any size driveway with an electric thrower if you are patient, but who wants to spend six hours outside on a cold winter day?
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