How to choose
Whether you call them snow blowers or snow throwers, here's what to look for at the store
Try the controls. Independent dealers and even big-box stores typically have floor samples. Along with trigger releases on two-stage models,
look for electric starting. Also be sure you're comfortable with the handle height and the chute adjustment, which you'll
use frequently.
Don't get hung up on power claims. More horsepower might not mean more performance. Our tests in recent years showed that two less-powerful two-stage models cleared comparably to a model with a bigger 11-horsepower engine.
Some manufacturers and retailers are also pushing Briggs & Stratton engines. But we found that the Tecumseh engines on most machines performed competently.
Don't get dazzled by drive speeds. Most two-stage machines have five or six forward speeds, useful for going slowly through heavy snow, or quickly when returning to the garage.
Don't get hung up on power claims. More horsepower might not mean more performance. Our tests in recent years showed that two less-powerful two-stage models cleared comparably to a model with a bigger 11-horsepower engine.
Some manufacturers and retailers are also pushing Briggs & Stratton engines. But we found that the Tecumseh engines on most machines performed competently.
Don't get dazzled by drive speeds. Most two-stage machines have five or six forward speeds, useful for going slowly through heavy snow, or quickly when returning to the garage.
