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Winter can bring heavy snowfalls that create a lot of work when it comes to clearing your driveway. For homeowners with large driveways, using a manual shovel or a small snow blower isn’t practical. Investing in the right snow blower can save time and energy, ensuring your driveway is clear of snow and safe to drive on. In this blog, we will discuss some of the best snow blowers for large driveways available on Amazon, along with their features, pros, and a recommendation section to help you make the best choice.
Features to Look For in a Snow Blower for Large Driveways
Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand what features make a snow blower ideal for large driveways. Here are some essential features:
Clearing Width: A wider clearing width allows you to remove more snow with each pass, which is crucial for large driveways. Snow blowers with a 24-inch or wider clearing width are ideal.
Power Source: Snow blowers typically come in three types: gas-powered, electric, and battery-powered. Gas-powered snow blowers are ideal for large, heavy snowfalls, while battery-powered models are quieter and more environmentally friendly.
Two-Stage Mechanism: Two-stage snow blowers use an auger to gather snow and a separate impeller to throw it out, allowing them to handle heavier snow and wider paths.
Self-Propelled System: This feature helps you maneuver the snow blower easily, especially on large driveways. Many snow blowers come with variable speed settings to match the snow conditions.
Heated Hand Grips: For those who live in extremely cold climates, heated hand grips can make the job much more comfortable.
Chute Control: Being able to adjust the direction of the snow discharge is an important feature, especially if you need to direct snow away from areas like walkways or gardens.
Top 5 Snow Blowers for Large Driveways
1. Ariens Classic 24-Inch Two-Stage Snow Blower
Features:
24-inch clearing width
12.5-inch intake height
6 forward speeds, 2 reverse speeds
Snow discharge up to 40 feet
Electric start
208cc engine
Pros:
Strong and reliable gas engine
Easy to maneuver thanks to the self-propelled system
Works well in heavy and wet snow
Durable construction
Cons:
A bit noisy compared to electric or battery-powered models
Requires regular maintenance
Recommendation: The Ariens Classic 24-Inch Snow Blowers is ideal for homeowners who need a reliable, powerful snow blower for medium to large driveways. It’s especially effective for wet, heavy snow and features a durable gas engine. If you’re willing to do regular maintenance and don’t mind the noise, this is a solid choice.
LED Illumination: Dual LED lights for visibility in low-light conditions.
Lightweight: Easy to carry and store.
Pros:
Efficient Performance: Quickly clears snow on smaller driveways, walkways, and decks.
Compact Design: Lightweight and maneuverable for tight spaces.
Easy Assembly: Minimal setup required.
Versatile: Works well on powdery and moderately wet snow.
Affordable: Budget-friendly compared to gas-powered alternatives.
Eco-Friendly: No gas or oil required; runs on electricity.
Cons:
Cord Management: Requires careful handling of extension cords.
Not for Heavy Snow: Struggles with dense, wet, or compacted snow.
Plastic Build: Durability may be limited under heavy use.
Limited Range: Dependent on cord length and nearby power outlets.
Recommendation:
The WEN Snow Thrower is an excellent choice for those with smaller areas to clear, such as driveways, walkways, or decks. It’s ideal for light to moderate snowfalls and offers great value for its price. However, if you frequently deal with heavy or compacted snow, consider a more powerful gas-powered model. For best results, use a cold-weather extension cord and manage expectations for its performance in extreme conditions.
Dual battery system with up to 80 minutes of runtime
Variable speed control
50-foot snow discharge range
Pros:
Cordless design with no fumes, making it environmentally friendly
Less maintenance required compared to gas-powered models
Quiet operation
Powerful enough for moderate to heavy snowfalls
Cons:
Batteries need to be recharged after about 80 minutes of use
More expensive than traditional gas-powered models
Recommendation: The EGO Power+ 24-Inch Snow Blower is perfect for people who want the power of a gas-powered machine but prefer a cleaner, quieter, and more convenient option. It’s ideal for moderate to heavy snowfall, and the self-propelled design makes it easy to handle. This snow blower is particularly suited for those who want to avoid the noise and maintenance of gas engines.
Powerful Motor: 1800W motor clears up to 800 lbs of snow per minute.
Wide Clearing Path: Clears snow 23 inches wide and 12 inches deep in one pass.
Throwing Distance: Throws snow up to 25 feet.
Adjustable Chute: 180-degree rotation for precise snow direction.
LED Lights: Dual lights for better visibility during nighttime or overcast conditions.
Lightweight: At 30 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver and store.
Wheel Size: 6-inch wheels for better mobility on snow.
Pros:
High Performance: Clears heavy snow quickly and effectively for driveways and sidewalks.
Compact and Lightweight: Easy to handle and store in tight spaces.
Simple Assembly: No tools required, straightforward instructions.
Eco-Friendly: Corded electric power, no gas or oil needed.
Affordable Option: Competitive price for a snow blower of its capability.
Cons:
Plastic Auger: May not be as durable as metal augers, especially for heavy or icy snow.
Cord Management: Requires a heavy-duty, weather-resistant extension cord for optimal performance.
Limited Use in Deep Snow: Not ideal for extremely dense or compacted snow over 12 inches.
Handle Folding: Can be cumbersome, requiring careful adjustment.
Recommendation:
The Westinghouse WSnow23 is a great option for those seeking a lightweight, efficient snow blower for moderate snowfalls. It is well-suited for clearing smaller areas like driveways, walkways, and decks. However, it may struggle with heavy, icy snow or deep drifts. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, eco-conscious tool for typical winter needs, this snow blower is a solid choice.
After reviewing the top snow blowers for large driveways, my recommendation for most homeowners is the Toro Power Max HD 30-Inch Snow Blower. It offers a powerful engine, large clearing width, and easy-to-use features like triggerless steering and remote chute control, making it perfect for those with large, heavily snowed-in driveways. While it’s on the pricier side, its performance and efficiency are well worth the investment.
However, if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option or have moderate snowfall, the EGO Power+ 24-Inch Cordless Snow Blower is a great alternative. It combines the power of a gas model with the convenience of a battery-powered machine, offering a quieter and cleaner snow-clearing experience.
Ultimately, the best snow blower for your needs depends on your specific driveway size, snow conditions, and budget. Make sure to consider factors like clearing width, power source, and ease of use when choosing your snow blower to ensure it meets your needs for years to come.
Conclusion
A quality snow blower is an essential tool for homeowners with large driveways, especially when winter brings heavy snowfalls. By considering key features such as clearing width, power source, and maneuverability, you can find the best model to make clearing snow a breeze. Whether you opt for a gas-powered, battery-powered, or eco-friendly model, the snow blowers discussed in this blog are some of the best options on the market. Stay prepared and make your winter maintenance easier with the right snow blower!
