Let me start by walking you through a few factors that to keep mind while picking a snowblower:
- Maneuverability
- Clearing Area
- Accessories and features
- Cost and Maintenance
Now, let's compare the two based on these factors.
A. Maneuverability
There’s a common myth that the more compact a snowblower is, the easier it’s to move around. Although electric and single-stage snowblowers are compact and lightweight, moving them around is difficult because they are too light to grip the snow.
On the other hand, the weight of two and three-stage snow blowers works in their favor as they can make a solid grip on the pavement, so moving them around doesn’t require much effort. Moreover, most such models are self-propelled, while some even come with a power steering.
Gas snow blowers are available in single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage models, while electric snow blowers mostly come in a single-stage option. Besides, gas-powered models are better in terms of mobility since a power or extension cord does not tie you down like the electric ones.
B. Clearing Area
Electric models come with a maximum 13 inches and 24 inches of intake height and clearing width, respectively. So, it would be difficult for you to clear more than a square feet of snow using this model.
Some gas-powered models are smaller and lightweight like electric models, while others are larger and heavier. Hence, the former can be suitable if you want the best of mobility and power.
On the other hand, other gas-powered models have a maximum of 24 inches and 45 inches of intake height and clearing width, respectively, which is almost double than that of the reformer.
Generally, you won’t have to clear more than a foot of snow. However, you never know when a snowstorm will hit your area, and the amount of snow deposited may be too much for the electric snowblower. And a powerful gas snowblower lets you get rid of all the snow within a few hours.
C. Maintenance
While electric snow blowers have more advantages, the gas-powered counterparts also have some likable features.
To start with, you don’t need to change oils, spark plugs, or gasoline in electric models. They are essentially low-maintenance- all you need is to keep them clean by wiping away any dirt or dust and recharging the batteries. However, they may need the occasional replacement of skid shoes, paddles, and scraper bar.
On the contrary, gas snow blowers are high-maintenance, and require fresh, stabilized gasoline, oil changes, occasional filter, and spark plug changes. Furthermore, dirt and salt deposition must be thoroughly cleaned to maintain their overall performance.
D. Accessories And Features
In terms of features, gas-powered snow blowers provide a plethora of options to make your snow-blowing experience enjoyable and convenient. Everything from self-propelled motors, one-push start button, headlights, and turn-assist, there’s so much.
However, keep in mind that these models have various features to choose from, so understanding each of these will help you decide which one you actually need.
E. Cost
There’s no secret- the more features a model has, the more expensive it will be. Both electric and single-stage snow blowers are generally cheaper than gas-powered models due to their limited usability and features and clear only a small area.
The price of a gas-powered model will depend on various factors like its size, style, and feature options. Gas models are much costlier than their counterparts and can be used for professional purposes.
While budget is an important consideration, you’d want to choose the one that offers the best features according to your needs. Furthermore, keep a track of offers and seasonal discounts, which may help save some money!