Snowblowers are an indispensable tool for clearing out the snow from front walks, pathways and driveways.
It is a smart purchase if you regularly receive snowfall. But you should know that snowblowers are mainly of two types: single-stage and double-stage. And in this guide, I’ll tell you all about what is a single stage snowblower.
So, continue reading!
What Is A Single-Stage Snowblower?
Single-stage snow blowers are designed to tackle light to deal with light to moderate snow accumulation. The engine spins the attached rubber augur, which scoops up the snow and throws it into the chute in a single motion, hence the name.
It’s small and compact-sized, easily maneuverable and it has simple controls, which make it a valid choice for homeowners with small or medium driveways and pathways.
How Does It work?
A single-stage snowblower has only a single augur that picks up the snow and tosses it into the chute, which is further thrown away from the path you’ve cleared. This motion of taking in snow aids the self-propulsion of the machine, as it eats through the snow in its course.
Since they operate with a single auger, these machines are much less powerful than two-stage snow blowers.
Types Of Single-Stage Snowblower
Generally, there are three types of single-stage snow blowers, which include:
- Entry-level single-stage snowblower
- Mid-grade single-stage snowblower
- Professional grade single-stage snowblower
Entry-level models are perfect for people with smaller driveways or those who experience light snowfall throughout the year. These have lighter engines, are economical, and come with just the basic features.
Mid-grade models feature more powerful models and they are more expensive than entry-level models. A mid-grade unit can help you plow through the snow much faster. And lastly, professional-grade models feature lightweight yet rugged frames designed to handle heavy duty snow clearing. Their robust belts are capable of clearing large areas with ease in a single day.
Benefits
Single-stage snow blowers are much more effective in clearing out light snow accumulation that has a height less than 8-inch. On the other hand, two-stage snow blowers can’t pick up light snow and end up pushing them around, which takes more time.
Furthermore, single-stage models are powered by electricity or gas. And electric blowers require much less maintenance, which is a bonus.
Despite being less powerful, a single-stage snowblower still can toss snow up to 30-feet away. Due to its small and compact size, you can maneuver it easily in tighter spots like smaller driveways and narrow paths. Plus, you can easily lift it on the porch and decking surfaces as well.
Not only that, as the front auger sits deep into the snow, none of the snow is left behind when it starts operating, thereby keeping your driveway completely clean.
Concerns
There's a lot to love about a single-stage snowblower, but if you experience heavy snowfall every day, then this is definitely not an optimal choice.
The augur sitting on the snow helps clear away the snow completely, but it doesn’t work well on uneven surfaces. If you run the single-stage snowblower on gravel, it might pick some along with the snow and damage the chute.
Besides, electric-powered snow blowers require less maintenance, but the same isn’t true for gas-powered snow blowers. They require regular maintenance to avoid problems such as leaking fuel, stuck augurs, and others.
The biggest issue with electric models is the cord length, and outlet placement limits their reach, especially if you have a long driveway. In this case, it’s viable to opt for a battery-powered cordless snowblower. However, once the battery is completely drained, finding a replacement might be challenging. So, ask the retailer for some replacement batteries at the time of purchase.
Final Words
That’s all I had to tell you about a single-stage snowblower.
Hopefully, this guide helped clear out all your queries regarding a single-stage model. But if you want a more durable and robust model, a two-stage snowblower will be an ideal option. It can clear snow up to 15 inches and works well even on uneven surfaces.
That said, I have used both the models and found out that as long as you stay on top of clearing snow before it forms stubborn accumulation, single-stage models will also work well. And on that note, it’s time for me to wrap up.
Goodbye and take care!