Winter can be a beautiful season, but it often brings with it an unwanted challenge: snow. If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, you’re probably familiar with the hard work of shoveling snow from your driveway, sidewalk, or driveway. While traditional gas-powered snow blowers are effective, they come with drawbacks such as loud noise, emissions, and a fair amount of maintenance. This is where cordless electric snow blowers come in.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cordless electric snow blowers, from the basics of how they work to the specific factors you should consider when choosing one for your home. I’ve also included comparisons of top models to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Why Choose a Cordless Electric Snow Blower?
Before diving into the specifics, let’s address the most common question: Why should you consider a cordless electric snow blower in the first place? There are several reasons that might make these machines appealing.
1. Environmentally Friendly
Cordless electric snow blowers are powered by batteries, which means they don’t produce harmful emissions like gas-powered models. They’re a cleaner choice, and you won’t have to worry about refueling or dealing with messy gasoline.
2. Quieter Operation
Unlike gas snow blowers, which can be quite loud, cordless electric models run much more quietly. This makes them ideal for use in residential neighborhoods where you want to avoid disturbing neighbors early in the morning or late at night.
3. Low Maintenance
With fewer moving parts, electric snow blowers require significantly less maintenance than their gas counterparts. You won’t have to worry about oil changes, spark plugs, or carburetors. Charging the battery and keeping the machine clean are the main tasks you’ll need to handle.
4. Lightweight and Maneuverable
Cordless electric snow blowers tend to be lighter than gas-powered ones, making them easier to maneuver. This is particularly useful if you have a smaller driveway or if you simply prefer a more manageable snow blower.
5. No Need for Extension Cords
Cordless models come with rechargeable batteries, which means you don’t need to worry about dragging around extension cords. This makes them more convenient for larger areas where a corded blower would be cumbersome.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Electric Snow Blower
Now that you understand why cordless electric snow blowers are a solid choice, let’s look at the key factors you should consider when making your purchase.
1. Snow Blower Size and Clearing Width
The size and clearing width of the snow blower are crucial factors. Clearing width refers to how wide an area the snow blower can clear in one pass. A wider clearing width means you can cover more ground in less time, but it also makes the machine bulkier.
- Small Snow Blowers (18 to 20 inches): These are best for clearing smaller areas like sidewalks, patios, and small driveways.
- Medium Snow Blowers (20 to 22 inches): These models are suitable for medium-sized driveways and walkways.
- Large Snow Blowers (22 inches and above): If you have a larger driveway or need to clear a lot of snow, go for a model with a wider clearing width.
2. Battery Life and Power
Battery life is one of the most important factors to consider. The bigger the area you need to clear, the more battery power you’ll need. Some models come with two batteries, while others may allow you to swap batteries if you run out of power mid-job.
- Battery Voltage: The voltage (usually between 20V to 80V) indicates the power of the snow blower. Higher voltage means more power, which is ideal for clearing heavier snow.
- Runtime: Runtime refers to how long the snow blower can run on a single charge. Be sure to check the estimated runtime of each model, especially if you have a large area to clear.
3. Clearing Depth
The clearing depth indicates how deep the snow blower can handle snow. A snow blower with a deeper clearing depth can handle larger snowfalls without slowing down. If you live in an area with heavy snowfalls, look for a model with a deeper clearing depth.
4. Weight and Maneuverability
Cordless electric snow blowers are generally lighter than gas models, but the weight can still vary. Consider how easy it will be to maneuver the snow blower, especially if you have a lot of tight corners to navigate.
5. Throwing Distance
The throwing distance refers to how far the snow blower can throw the snow. This is important because you don’t want the snow to pile up right where you just cleared. Look for a model with an adjustable chute so you can control the direction and distance of the snow being thrown.
6. Ergonomics
Comfort is key, especially if you’ll be using the snow blower for extended periods. Look for features like adjustable handles, padded grips, and easy-to-use controls.
7. Warranty
Always check the warranty before purchasing. A good warranty provides peace of mind and indicates that the manufacturer stands behind the product.
Comparison Table of Top Cordless Electric Snow Blowers
To help you decide which cordless electric snow blower is best for your needs, I’ve compiled a comparison table of some top models on the market.
| Model | Clearing Width | Battery Voltage | Runtime | Weight | Throwing Distance | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenworks 20-Inch 80V | 20 inches | 80V | 45 mins | 34 lbs | 20 feet | Large battery, LED lights, ideal for heavy snow |
| Snow Joe iON18SB | 18 inches | 40V | 30 mins | 32 lbs | 25 feet | Lightweight, ideal for small to medium areas |
| EGO Power+ SNT2102 | 21 inches | 56V | 40 mins | 35 lbs | 35 feet | Push-button start, two batteries for extended use |
| Toro 21-Inch 60V | 21 inches | 60V | 45 mins | 35 lbs | 30 feet | Easy-glide wheels, powerful motor, ergonomic design |
| Honda HS720AA | 20 inches | N/A | N/A | 93 lbs | 40 feet | Self-propelled, powerful, gas-powered option |
How to Choose the Right Cordless Electric Snow Blower for You
Now that you have an overview of some top models, here are a few tips to help you select the best cordless electric snow blower for your needs.
1. Assess Your Needs
Think about the size of the area you need to clear, how often it snows in your region, and how much snow you typically have to deal with. If you live in an area with heavy snowfalls, you’ll need a snow blower with more power and battery capacity. For smaller areas, a lightweight, compact snow blower should suffice.
2. Set a Budget
Cordless electric snow blowers come at different price points. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, remember that you’re investing in something that should last for several years. Don’t skimp on quality if you want a snow blower that can handle your needs.
3. Check Customer Reviews
Reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into a product’s performance. Look for feedback on battery life, durability, and ease of use. Keep in mind that no product is perfect, but reviews can help you spot potential issues before making a decision.
4. Consider the Brand
Some brands are known for producing high-quality cordless electric snow blowers. If you’re unsure about a particular model, research the brand to see what others say about their reliability and customer service.
5. Think About Storage
Consider how and where you will store the snow blower. Many cordless models are designed to be compact and easy to store, but you’ll still want to ensure that you have enough space for it when it’s not in use.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cordless electric snow blower depends on several factors, from the size of the area you need to clear to the amount of snow you typically face. By evaluating your needs and considering key factors like battery life, clearing width, and weight, you can find a snow blower that will make winter a little easier to handle.
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but with the information in this guide, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect snow blower for your home!
