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Snow Blower or Snow Thrower – What is the Difference?

Snow blower or Snow thrower?

Snow blower or Snow thrower? We tend to use the two terms interchangeably, but they are not the same. A “snow thrower” refers to a single stage snow removal machine that picks up the snow in one motion and throws it out the chute with the continuation of that movement. The term “single stage” describes the fact that the snow is thrown in one single movement.

A snow blower refers to a two stage snow removal machine. The auger scoops up the snow, which is the first stage, and feeds it to the impeller which blows the snow out the chute for the second stage. The “blower” part seems appropriate since the impeller operates much like a fan, except is much more powerful.

Single Stage Snow throwers – Snow blower or Snow thrower?

Snow blower or Snow thrower? Snow throwers are smaller machines than snow blowers. The single stage, while effective at snow removal, does not throw snow as far as a two stage model, but single stage snow throwers are less expensive. Single stage snow throwers are ideal for lighter use, less than 10 inches of snowfall, and are easier to maneuver due to their lighter weight. They are typically used by consumers.

Single stage snow blowers tend to have smaller clearing widths as well, so if you have large areas or deep snow to clear, it is recommended to choose a two stage snow blower. The augers are typically made of plastic or hard rubber and will come in contact with the ground. This allows single stage snow throwers to clear snow all the way down to the pavement. Because of this, you should only use a single stage snow blower on a paved surface not gravel, because it can be thrown. A two stage snow blower is recommended for gravel surfaces.

Two Stage Snow blowers – Snow blower or Snow thrower?

Two stage snow blowers are bigger and more powerful. Some can blow snow up to 50 feet with relative accuracy. Two stage snow blowers are also wider, lending themselves to being able to take fewer passes to clear a large area and are generally recommended for people who have more than a sidewalk to clear. They also have taller intakes, making them able to handle deep snow drifts. Their metal augers do not impact the ground, so they can be used on any surface including gravel. The width and power of a two stage snow blower make them able to clear large areas much quicker and throw snow higher and farther.

Two stage snow blowers have wheels or tracks and can be outfitted with tire chains. Depending on the model, two stage snow blowers are suitable for consumer and commercial use. Features on the two stage can include headlights, large tires with deep lugs with optional chains and power steering, if you want to clear your snow quickly and not worry about heavy snowfall; it is recommended that you choose a two stage snow blower.

You May Also Enjoy These Articles:

6 Snow Blower Maintenance Tips

Key Differences Between Snow Blowers

Everyone Needs a Snow Blower: 8 Tips For Michiganders

5 Common Snow Blower Problems and Solutions

Snow Blower Safety

Why Weingartz?

Weingartz, family owned and operated, began in 1945 as a farm supply store for local Michigan families. In the 1970s, we began to focus exclusively on outdoor power equipment. Over time, we morphed into the “power equipment superstore” that now defines all of our locations. The staff and experts at Weingartz work diligently to provide the best service possible and give honest and helpful advice to each and every customer.

Weingartz also sells parts for all outdoor power equipment at https://www.weingartz.com/parts-lookup.

Weingartz
5436 Jackson Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
(734) 239-8200

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