Over 11,000 people are injured every winter while shoveling snow, according to the National Institutes of Health. Snow shovels have their place and purpose, but snow throwers and snow blowers take on the heavy lifting and protect your back and shoulders from injury.
Even though their names sound similar, snow throwers and snow blowers have distinct features worth knowing by anyone interested in clearing snow this winter without pain.
In this article: Greenworks 20-Inch Corded Snow Thrower, Snow Joe 22-Inch Electric Snow Thrower and Briggs & Stratton Snow Blower.
There are different sizes of driveways and parking lots, types of snow and varying depths of snowfall that all necessitate a snow thrower or blower powerful enough to clear a path.
Nearly all snow throwers are electrically powered. Many have a long cord that may need to be connected to an extension cord. Others are cordless and rely on battery power. Snow throwers are quieter and don't release any smelly exhaust into the air.
Some snow blowers are cordless and have batteries charged by electricity. These are ideal for environmentally conscious consumers who still want power similar to that of gas engines. Many snow blowers are powered by gasoline or diesel fuel. They have the most power but require regular fill-ups and release exhaust into the environment.
Basic corded snow throwers start as low as $100, and battery-powered throwers begin at $250. Snow blowers with minimal features and gas engines start at $300, but larger blowers with more powerful engines, including battery-powered machines, can run $500-$2,000.
Snow throwers are easier to store when not in use. They are lightweight and thinner by design. They can often fit easily in storage sheds or corners of your garage.
Snow blowers are bulkier and heavier. Many weigh over 100 pounds. They need to be stored in an area with plenty of space so the handle and auger don't bump into other equipment.
Q. Is an electric snow shovel the same thing as a snow thrower?
A. An electric snow shovel is a type of snow thrower. They tend to be smaller than a snow thrower with a narrower swath and less power. Most require you to push them, but they are still less taxing than a manual snow shovel. They typically are used for sidewalks and areas around the home or business.
Greenworks 20-Inch Corded Snow Thrower
With an adjustable chute and electric start, this snow thrower is easy to use. It is lightweight and has 7-inch wheels for people who don't want to overexert themselves.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Snow Joe 22-Inch Electric Snow Thrower
Recommended for midsized driveways and sidewalks, this snow thrower has 15 amps of power to quickly move up to 25 tons of snow per hour. It comes with two LED lights for throwing snow at night.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
Wen Snow Blaster Electric Snow Thrower
This thrower clears an 18-inch swath and moves nearly 500 pounds of snow per minute. It is designed for easy mobility with 6-inch wheels and weighs only 32 pounds.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
The 208-cubic-centimeter engine can clear 2 feet of snow in one pass. There's an electric starter to make it simple to get going. It's excellent for homes with long driveways.
Where to buy: Sold by Walmart
Ego Power+ 21-Inch Cordless Snow Blower
With two 56-volt batteries, this snow blower is powerful enough to clear a 10-car driveway with 8 inches of snow. It has a push-button start and variable speed control. It is a great snow blower for home owners wanting an alternative to a gas engine.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
PowerSmart 26-Inch Snow Blower
Ideal for regions with regular heavy snowfall, this powerful gas-operated snow blower has a steel auger that can clear up to 20 inches of snow and throw it 40 feet. It can be pull-started or started with an electric extension cord. A two-year warranty is offered.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
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Steve Ganger writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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