With winter around the corner, the forecast may have you thinking about buying a snow thrower. Spend less time shoveling snow and more time enjoying the warmth of the indoors. When you are shopping for a snow thrower, there are many factors to consider. With the help of your local Co-op Home Centre, you can find the perfect snow thrower for your winter needs.

Engine Size

The engine size, expressed in CCs (cubic centimetres) on your gas snow thrower, is important because it will determine a number of other aspects of the snow thrower’s performance. The engine size determines how much gas the snow thrower consumes, as well as the horsepower it produces. Bigger engines can also support faster drive systems for easier maneuvering. And snow throwers with more powerful engines can support heavier, more durable parts for better performance over the long term.

Auger Width & Height

After engine size the width and height of the auger is one of the most important considerations. Clearing width will determine how many passes it takes to clear your driveway; snow blowers with wider augers are able to clear an area in fewer passes, which means they can get the job done in less time. Intake height determines how much snow it can handle on a single pass. If your area regularly or even periodically experiences major snowstorms or deep drifting, then a snow thrower with a taller intake height is best.

Throwing Distance

The distance the snow blower’s chute can throw snow will affect the size of the area that you can clear, as well as the amount of work you will have to put in to get it done. If you have a wide driveway that leads to a two- or even three-car garage, thrower, you will want a snow thrower than can throw further. On a single stage snow thrower, an auger directs the snow straight through a discharge chute. On a two-stage snow thrower, the auger collects the snow and a fan then discharges the snow through a chute, which throws the snow faster and up to ten feet further than a single stage snow thrower.

Electric vs. Gas

Which snowthrower is right for you?

Visit your local Co-op Home Centre to find the perfect snow thrower for your winter needs!