Craigslist Snowblower (2024)

FAQs

Is it worth buying a used snow blower? ›

If a snow blower is newer, it will likely be easier to use. As time progresses, products tend to advance in terms of reliability and features, so buying an older snow blower means it may lack key safety features, self-propulsion or all-surface operation, or it might just not throw snow far enough.

"January can be the sweet spot for snow-blower deals, particularly if you've had a mild winter in your area" says Courtney Pennicooke, CR's market analyst for snow blowers. "The selection is still pretty good, and you can often save money as retailers start making room for grills and lawn mowers."

While it makes good financial sense to find an affordable snowblower that doesn't break your budget, keep in mind that it isn't worth anything if it can't handle the amount of snow you expect to see each winter. Less expensive snowblowers, generally speaking, are made to handle smaller jobs.

Generally speaking, if a snowblower is properly maintained and not used too frequently then it can last anywhere between 5 to 10 years. If a snowblower is neglected or used heavily then its lifespan can be significantly shortened.

Two-stage snow blowers are great for handling all types of snow on any surface. For example, a two-stage may be an ideal choice for those with gravel driveways, since they don't clean all the way to the ground which helps avoid pieces of gravel getting into your snow blower's auger.

Ice breaking serrated augers

Our snow blowers feature deeper serrations, the better to cut through tough conditions. Need another example? Just check out our shear bolts. Honda snow blowers are equipped with easily replaceable shear bolts, unlike most of our competitors.

24-28 Inches: A versatile mid-range size suitable for moderate to heavy snowfall. Good for medium-sized driveways and walkways.

TWO-STAGE SNOW BLOWER Clearing width: 20-38 inches

If you need your snow blower to clear up to 12 inches of heavy, wet snow from a longer driveway, a two-stage machine with a clearing width between 24 and 28 inches and an intake height around 20 inches is worth consideration.

While a snowblower costs anywhere from $100 to almost $10,000, most homeowners will pay between $250 and $2,000, but it depends on the type you want and need. Power shovels are an economical option for some assisted shoveling while areas with heavy snow might need a large gas three-stage machine for regular clearing.

At least two inches of snow should be on the ground before considering the snowblower, according to real estate company Rocket Homes. However, it also depends on what kind of snowblower you have.

How long should you let a snowblower warm up? ›

Let the machine run for at least five minutes to let the engine time to warm up, fuel to run through the system, etc. Engage the drive and auger a couple times to make sure all is working as it should too.

All in all, we recommend the Ariens Classic snow blower to anyone looking for a machine that's a breeze to maneuver up and down hills and can cut through heavy, wet snow like a dream.

Fortunately, three-stage snow blowers (sometimes called snow throwers) tackle that woeful winter chore up to 30 percent faster than two-stage models, Consumer Reports' tests find, in part because they can clear deeper snow with a single pass.

Look for professional snow blowers equipped with an engine of at least 400 CCs.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate a snow blower. Children 14 and over should read and understand the instructions and safe operation practices that are described in the manual.

After use, run the snow blower for a few moments to clear out snow and to prevent freeze-up of the auger or impeller. Sweep off the machine and dry it with a cloth to help keep melting snow and ice from causing corrosion or rust.