Electric vs. Gas Snow Blowers: Which Should You Buy? | ZING Blog by Quicken Loans Electric vs. Gas Snow Blowers: Which Should You Buy?
Spring may be on the horizon, but I’d be willing to bet that the next snow storm is even closer. Although I love watching the snow fall, I hate cleaning up after it. In fact, I made a pact with my boyfriend so I wouldn’t have to shovel at all (don’t worry, I do my fair share of work in the summer).
I’ve been thinking about buying a snow blower to make the job easier, and there are more options then I imagined. However, consumers can pick from two main models – electric and gas powered. If you’re in the market too for a new snow blower or just tired of using the ol’ shovel, I’m going to break down some pros and cons of each one.
Honestly, I didn’t even know electric snow blowers existed. I had heard of electric lawn mowers and kind of laughed a bit. The risk of running over the chord and electrocuting myself seemed all too real, so I’ve steered away from them.
They don’t require any engine oil.
They’re much lighter than gas snow blowers.
They’re quieter than traditional snow blowers.
Most offer push button starts (no more ridiculous pull cords!).
They may be more affordable than gas snow blowers.
They’re limited by the length of the cord.
The cord may get in the way, which could be dangerous.
Water and electricity don’t mix, so you have to be cautious.
They may not be able to handle more than a couple of inches of snow.
Most run about 12 – 14 inches in length ­­­­­– limiting size options.
Nothing says winter quiet like the sound of gas snow blowers breaking the silence after a blizzard. Although they have some drawbacks, which I’ll go over in a second, traditional gas snow blowers are also another option you have.
They’re more durable than electric snow blowers.
They can handle heavier snow more efficiently.
No electrical chord to get in the way.
They come in a variety of sizes – from 12 inches to over four feet in length.
The engine needs regular maintenance, like oil changes and cleaning the fuel and air filters.
They’re loud – deafeningly loud.
Pull-start cords may make them difficult to start – at least if you’re a weakling like me.
Now that you have the facts, what type of snow blower should you buy? If it were up to me, I’d probably stick with the tried-and-true gas snow blower. I just don’t feel comfortable dragging around an electrical chord while I’m trying to clear snow.
If you still aren’t sure which snow blower is right for you, stop by the local hardware store and speak with a sales clerk. Also, be sure to try out a few in the store to see which you’re most comfortable using. Don’t forget to also compensate for the amount of snow you get. You’ll probably break an electric snow blower if you live in an area that gets tons of snow.
With a few more weeks of winter, the next big blizzard could be right around the corner. Make sure you have the right snow blower to dig yourself out so you don’t waste your time and money.
What type of snow blower do you have? Share with other Zing readers below!
Have had an electric model for about 10 years.
Probably wouldn’t have bought it but got it free from a friend.
and put them to use. I don’t and wouldn’t use cheap 14g cords.
I was pushing it into snow. If I was backing up or relocating the unit, its off.
deal with the 50-100′ cord, it was no problem.
a longer driveway (I live in SE Mich).
So which one did you buy? I know you said bought a gas model but which one was it?
I have always preferred the gas ones myself.