Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage Snow Blowers
Single-Stage Snow Blowers vs. Two-Stage Snow Blowers
A snow blower is an indispensable tool for removing snow from your driveway, walkway, and patio. Depending on how much snowfall is typical for your location, the amount of space you need to clear, and your budget, you have several options for what kind of snow blower to consider. Is a single-stage snow blower best for you? Or do you need a two-stage snow blower? Should you get a gas snow blower or an electric snow blower?
The experienced team at Century Power Equipment in Stillwater, MN, has put together this guide to help you decide what kind of snow blower is right for you. We have an extensive inventory of snow blowers and associated equipment including Honda snow blowers, Toro snow blowers, and other major brands represented at our dealership near St. Paul, MN. If you have any questions about availability or what snow blower is right for you, call us at (651) 439-2035 or contact us online.
Single-Stage Snow Blowers
A single-stage snow blower, also known as a snow thrower, is typically a smaller snow blower. In a single-stage snow blower the auger, the corkscrew-like helical blade at the front, does all the work: it cuts into the snow and also discharges it out the chute, throwing it clear of your path. Single-stage snow blowers are usually designed for snowfalls of 8-10 inches or less, are intended for use on flat, paved surfaces, and are typically not self-propelled.
Two-Stage Snow Blowers
A two-stage snow blower is a larger machine with an auger that cuts into snow and pushes it into a separately-driven impeller, which discharges the snow out of the chute. This two-stage system speeds up the snow clearing process and does a better job tackling deeper snowfalls of more than 10 inches. Many two-stage snow blowers are self-propelled and are designed with all-metal augers and enough ground clearance for use on uneven or gravel surfaces.
Which Type of Snow Blower Should I Buy?
So what type of snow blower is right for you? There are a few questions to ask yourself:
How much snow do I get on average?
Winter in Minnesota means that snowfalls of more than 8-10 inches aren’t unusual, so a two-stage or a larger single-stage snow blower may be what you need to handle those drifts.
How big of an area do I need to clear?
If you just need to remove snow from a short driveway or small patio, a smaller snow blower may be ideal. If you have a large area to clear, though, you may come to appreciate a larger snow blower that’s self-propelled.
What kind of ground am I clearing?
If you’ve got an uneven, sloped, or gravel surface that you’ll be working on, then a two-stage snow blower that is self-propelled and has greater ground clearance is likely your best bet.
It’s important that the snow blower you buy meets your needs and fits with the terrain and climate. The experienced staff at Century Power Equipment can help you evaluate what type of snow blower will work best for you and look at options that will fit within your budget. Just call us at (651) 439-2035 or reach out to us online.
Gas vs. Electric Snow Blowers
Another consideration when choosing a snow blower is whether to buy a gas- or electric-powered model. Most snow blowers, especially larger models and two-stage snow blowers, are gas-powered. This gives them virtually unlimited endurance and range, plus a larger two-stage gas-powered model will clear snow well over a foot deep.
Electric snow blowers are usually corded and are best suited for use within 50 feet of a power outlet. Some battery-powered electric models are available but their battery life can be limited in heavy snow. Most electric models are also designed for smaller snowfalls of less than a foot. However if you don’t need to clear a large area or deep snow, electric snow blowers are often less expensive, and the lack of a gas engine means that they require less maintenance.
Have more questions?
Contact UsSnow Blowers for Sale Near Me
If you’re looking for a snow blower for sale in Stillwater, MN, check out the inventory at Century Power Equipment. We have a wide variety of makes and models to choose from, as well as expert staff who can answer your questions and help you choose the snow blower that is best for your needs. Call us at (651) 439-2035 if you have any questions or you can reach us online.