Winter has its charm, but those snow-covered pathways, probably not so!
And the last thing you’d want is to use a shovel and break your back while making the driveway accessible. But with a commercial snowblower, the task becomes a breeze.
Being a lawn care enthusiast, I’ve tried numerous tools and equipment to maintain a clean backyard all year long. However, not many could beat the utility and convenience of a two-stage snowblower.
Hi! I am Stacy, and today, I’ve curated this guide to help you choose the best commercial snowblower on the market.
So, let’s get down to business!
Top 5 Product Reviews
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For starters, consider the Husqvarna ST230P 30. Featuring a strong engine and 16-inch tires, this machine is built for powerful performance. Also, the handles and control are designed for optimal user comfort. Plus, the two-stage system will give you cleaner driveways in no time.
Why Buy This Product?
At first glance, the solid construction is what compelled me to try this unit. The two-stage system mainly comprises an auger and discharge chute. While the robustly built auger works equally well for both wet and frozen snow, the chute’s vertical throwing direction can be controlled with a lever.
Since the snow is powdered before intake, the 30-inch deck can collect more at one go. Besides, I absolutely love its electric start feature, which saves you from the hassle of dead and cold batteries. Just connect to a power source and start the engine by pressing a button.
Thanks to its power steering mechanism, the user can control each wheel separately for greater maneuverability. Moreover, the track-drive system is equipped to provide a smooth drive on all surfaces.
Overall, this model from Husqvarna is sure to impress even the nitpickers out there!
What Could’ve Been Better?
My only concern is that if the auger belt wears out after prolonged use, it can be rather challenging to find a replacement. You may hear a rattle from the cast iron gearbox at times, but be assured that it won’t interfere with the operation.
Here is a quick recap of what we liked and didn't like about the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2890 277cc Electric Start Gas Snow Thrower
Pros
Cons
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Next, I talk about the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker. Powered by a robust 277cc gas engine, it’s equipped with multiple user-friendly features to get the job done rather quickly. Besides, the substantial traction and trouble-free assembly are ideal for first-time users.
Why Buy This Product?
Honestly, I was intrigued by the positive customer feedback. At the heart of this two-stage snowblower lies a 4-cycle 277cc OHV engine, which facilitates clearing large areas. In fact, you can cut through a 28-inch deep and 21-inch wide path in a single pass. That’s a decent capacity for commercial use, and exceptional for residential purposes!
Furthermore, the upgraded chute design is 8-inch longer than usual for increased throwing distance. On that note, I should also mention that it supports a 200-degree rotation for seamless direction control.
In addition to the wide snow track drive, this unit allows you to choose from three SelecTrac Drive Modes that provide adequate balance on varied surfaces. And being a self-propelled snowblower, it operates with six forward and two reverse speeds.
Lastly, the torch ‘n’ turn power steering, in tandem with an electric start, provide superior maneuverability even at low temperatures.
What Could’ve Been Better?
I’ve observed that both the chute and engine tend to stop abruptly, possibly due to a faulty wire configuration. Although it’s pretty easy to re-start, it can be annoying to pay constant attention while navigating through those snow-packed driveways.
When it comes to two-stage snowblowers, Honda is a name to be reckoned with. As such, the HSS1332AAT is one of the brand’s most popular units in the category. Run by a mighty 389cc engine, its recoil-start is instantly appealing for those who like the traditional way of things.
- Powerful, Easy-to-Start Honda GX Engine: This Honda snow blower uses a commercial grade GX390 OHV engine for plenty of power to churn through snow; Starting is easy, even in cold weather, with a standard recoil pull-start
- Exceptional Snow Thrower: With a throwing distance of up to 56 feet, this gas snow blower features a 31.9-inch clearing width and 21.7 inch clearing height; This Honda snowblower clears up to 2750 pounds of snow per minute
- Dual Track Drive: This gas powered snow blower features pliable, low temperature rubber tracks with sure-gripping cleats for superior traction and ideal balance on inclines, rough or uneven ground, and icy conditions
Why Buy This Product?
The compact structure of this unit houses a plethora of features that have been integrated with performance in mind. Firstly, the 32-inch auger has an opening height of about 21 inches. Unlike most other snowblowers, the tall and wide auger allows you to clear a wider path and reach greater depths.
Apart from that, the durable chute has an impressive arc, which can throw at a distance of about 56 feet. Additionally, by using a joystick, you can control the direction both vertically and horizontally.
Agreed that recoil or pull starts are considered outdated, but they are useful nonetheless. After filling the tank, disengage the choke completely. Once done, pull it till the engine makes a roar. And that’s about it!
What Could’ve Been Better?
The HSS1332AAT is considerably big, making it more suitable for large spaces. If you’re a first-timer, you may find it difficult to master the controls together. Also, it lacks precision, especially while steering around vehicles or corners.
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The penultimate product on my list is the Ariens Professional 926060 RapidTrak snowblower. With a 28-inch auger and potent 420cc engine, you can rely on it to get your driveways clear with utmost efficiency. What’s more, its affordable price won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Why Buy This Product?
One of the primary advantages of the brand’s RapidTrak series is that it allows the user to switch between track and wheel mechanism in a jiffy. Hence, get the best of both worlds from the same machine without changing any part. For this purpose, the unit has preset adjustments to allow a smooth change between three different positions.
The track mode is meant for typical snow removal and keeps the tracks flat on the ground for better traction. On the other hand, the wheel mode lifts the rear of the track, and is ideal for maneuverability around objects. Finally, the dig-in mode pushes the track into the surface for better traction, and will come in handy during heavy snow.
Not only do the hydrostatic controls facilitate smooth forward movement, but the auto-turn feature makes it double up as a zero-turn snowblower.
What I liked the most about the build and design is that despite being so versatile, the overall operation is not at all complicated. If you’re looking for a complete package at this price, then the 926060 might be your safest bet.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Perhaps the only disadvantage that caught my eye was its lengthy and tiring assembly. I’d highly recommend getting an extra set of hands if you want to make the process a little easy to endure.
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My last recommendation is the Dirty Hand Tools Dual Stage snowblower. Its robust 302cc engine teams up with an electric start for precise clearing in harsh conditions. Plus, the durable construction can work on any terrain with ease.
Why Buy This Product?
The brand name may tell you otherwise, but this dual-stage snowblower doesn’t make your hands dirty. First off, the all-steel auger design has a 30-inch clearing width with a 20-inch intake. Simply put, it clears a lot in one go, thereby saving time and effort.
Like the Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker, this one comes with six forward and two reverse speeds to match any condition. On top of that, you can operate the 190-degree quick-turn chute from the conveniently placed control panel.
I loved the mounted clearing tool that allows you to clean the chute when required. Since it’s long enough, your hands are always at a safe distance from the auger.
Last but not least, the replaceable skid shoes have slanted edges that prevent the sidewalks from getting damaged. Overall, the Dirty Hand Tools Dual-Stage snowblower is a cost-effective option to make your life easy.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although it comes partially assembled, the rest of the process is rather time-consuming. However, unlike the Ariens Professional 926060, it won’t make you strain your muscles.
Final Words
If not for snowblowers, our winters could’ve become a lot more exhausting. And if it’s a dual-stage model, you can break into a little victory dance!
For this reason, I decided to review the five best options so that you can make a worthy investment. But before I leave you to take the final call, here’s a quick shoutout to a couple of my favorites.
The Husqvarna ST230P 30 is equal parts effective and convenient. On the other hand, the Ariens Professional 926060 RapidTrak is one of the most versatile snowblowers in its price range.
Everything said, it's knowing how to fix a snowblower is always an amazing skill to have. Take a look at this guide to know few things about fixing these machines.
With this, it’s time for me to say goodbye. Do come back for more exciting reviews. Till next time!