Honda HS520A information from Consumer Reports

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Honda HS520A

Price range:

$599.00 - $659.99

We expect this model to perform similarly to the tested Honda HS520AS although it may differ in price and features.

13 people have reviewed this model.

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Type: Single-stage gas snow blowers

About - Honda HS520A
The Honda HS520A is a snow blower available from Honda. The HS520A typically costs between $599.00 - $659.99. Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on snow blower models like the HS520A. Engine size: Engine Size is the engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters for gasoline powered engines. Most manufacturers not longer give a horsepower rating. Engine displacement is now the only universal way to compare relative engine size. Electric motors are stated in amps. Electric start: Most models offer a plug-in startng device that saves you the hassle of pull-starting the engine, but you need to be near an outlet. Warranty (yrs.): Manufacturer's stated warranty in years of coverage. In most cases it applies only to consumer use and not commercial use.

About - Honda HS520A

The Honda HS520A is a snow blower available from Honda. The HS520A typically costs between $599.00 - $659.99.

Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on snow blower models like the HS520A.

Engine size:: Engine Size is the engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters for gasoline powered engines. Most manufacturers not longer give a horsepower rating. Engine displacement is now the only universal way to compare relative engine size. Electric motors are stated in amps.
Electric start:: Most models offer a plug-in startng device that saves you the hassle of pull-starting the engine, but you need to be near an outlet.
Warranty (yrs.):: Manufacturer's stated warranty in years of coverage. In most cases it applies only to consumer use and not commercial use.

Tested Model
The Ratings of Honda HS520AS were applied to untested model Honda HS520A, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
Honda HS520AS
	Approximate retail price: $750

Features & Specs - Honda HS520A
Engine size Engine Size is the engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters for gasoline powered engines. Most manufacturers not longer give a horsepower rating. Engine displacement is now the only universal way to compare relative engine size. Electric motors are stated in amps. Engine size	161cc
Electric start Most models offer a plug-in startng device that saves you the hassle of pull-starting the engine, but you need to be near an outlet. Electric start	Yes
Multiple speeds For two-stage models, most come with multiple forward speeds and two reverse speeds. The ability to vary ground speed according to snow conditions gets the job done faster. Some of the least expensive two-stage models have only one forward speed. Multiple speeds	No
Single hand controls Most two-stage models have individual lever controls on each side of the handlebar, one engaging the wheel traction and the other for engaging the auger/impeller. This feature allows both control levers to be held down with one hand, leaving the other hand free to adjust the chute controls. Single hand controls	NA
Freewheel steering For two-stage models, this feature, which usually consists of triggers under each handlebar, disengages either or both the left and right drive wheels for easy, sharp turning. Freewheel steering	No
Single lever chute adjustment Only on two-stage models, a single lever or "joystick" on the control panel allows for quick changes to the horizontal discharge direction (the alternative is a hand crank) and to the vertical discharge height (the alternative is leaving the operator position and manual adjustment) all with a single lever. Single lever chute adjustment	No
Headlight This eases snow throwing at night or in low-light situations. Headlight	No
Heated handgrips Heated handgrips are a nicety, though they don't replace a good pair of gloves. Heated handgrips	No
Warranty (yrs.) Manufacturer's stated warranty in years of coverage. In most cases it applies only to consumer use and not commercial use. Warranty (yrs.)	2
More features and specs

User Reviews - Honda HS520A

Consumer Reports User Reviews

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Ray

from

Tahoe City, CA

3.0

Good for a deck

1/18/2013

Pros

Clears To Deck

Lightweight

Maneuverable

Quick

Cons

12" High Snow Max Use

Can't Handle Wet Snow

Chute Handle Beyond Edge

Does Not Throw Far

Best Uses

Exterior Decks

Comment:

Used on a deck. Good if snow is 9 inches or less. Not powerful enough for higher depth. Chute adjustment handle extends beyond the unit at 90 degree angle. Cannot get close to a wall.

How long have you owned it:

More than six months

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend this to a friend.

Snowy in Chicago Burbs

from

Chicago, IL

(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

5.0

Starts on first try for six years runnin

12/17/2012

Pros

Clears to the Pavement

Lightweight

Maneuverable

Throws Far

Cons

Loud

Best Uses

Driveway

Comment:

This will be the sixth winter for my Honda 520A snow thrower. I couldn't be more satisfied. It has bulletproof reliability, starting on the first pull for six years running. I don't know why you would want to spend money on a electric start. It throws the snow at least 30 feet. Ice, heavy wet snow, pose no problems. I empty the gas tank, change the oil and spark plug at the end of every season. At the end of last winter, the snow thrower started making loud clanging noises every now and then, although it still cleared snow without a hitch. I thought it was time to buy a new Honda snow thrower. I brought it to the Honda store and they adjusted the auger for me, and I was back in business. I still have the same, original scraper blade, and the Honda dealer said I did not need a new one for a few more years. What else can I say? It does what it's supposed to, starts easy every time, and it hasn't failed me yet. My neighbor has a higher rated Toro snow thrower which broke down during their second year of ownership - and again during their third year. The Honda was worth every penny.

How long have you owned it:

More than six months

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.

Laurie

from

Buffalo, NY

5.0

Love, Love, Love this machine!

10/9/2012

Pros

Clears to the Pavement

Lightweight

Maneuverable

Throws Far

Cons

Best Uses

Driveway

Comment:

I have had various snowblowers/throwers. Honda makes a great product and I highly recommend this. Easy for men or women to use/start. I can not pull start most engines but I have no difficulty starting the blowers from Honda (I have two) without an electric start. Basic maintenance costs and runs like a champ!

How long have you owned it:

More than six months

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.

Other User Reviews

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Recommended Ratings

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