Differences Between Snow Blowers and Snow Throwers: Choosing the Right Tool

For anyone living in regions that receive significant snowfall, clearing snow from driveways, sidewalks, and other areas is a yearly necessity. Two commonly used tools for this purpose are snow blowers and snow throwers. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are key differences that can help you choose the best tool for your needs.

Understanding Snow Throwers

Snow Thrower Design: Typically, smaller and lighter snow throwers are single-stage machines. These devices are designed to be portable and user-friendly, making them a popular choice for homeowners who need to clear light to moderate snowfall.

Snow Thrower Functionality: The primary function of a snow thrower is to scoop up the snow and throw it out through a chute using an auger. This makes them ideal for clearing small driveways, sidewalks, and patios. They are most effective on paved surfaces and are typically powered by electric or gasoline engines.

Understanding Snow Blowers

Snow Blower Design: Snow blowers are generally larger and more powerful, often coming in either single-stage or two-stage varieties. A two-stage snow blower has an initial auger to gather snow, followed by a powerful impeller to throw the snow out. The extra power allows them to handle heavier, wetter snow and larger areas.

Snow Blower Functionality: These machines use an auger to gather snow and a separate impeller to throw it, making them more versatile for heavier snowfall and unpaved surfaces. Some models even feature extendable handles and variable speed settings for easier operation and better control.

Cleaning Snow: Are They the Same?

It's a common misconception that snow throwers and snow blowers are different in function and use. In reality, they serve the same purpose of clearing snow from surfaces. The terms are often used interchangeably, and most manufacturers use the name "snow thrower." However, in common usage, many people use the term "snow blower." It's important to note that both terms refer to the same type of device.

A snow thrower uses an auger to throw the snow, while a snow blower uses an impeller to blow the snow. Some models even use a combination of methods to achieve the best results. Despite these technological differences, the fundamental purpose remains the same: to clear snow.

Choosing the Right Tool

Deciding between a snow thrower and a snow blower depends on the volume of snow you typically deal with and the size of the area you need to clear. For light to moderate snowfall and small areas, a snow thrower is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you face heavy snowfall or require clearing larger surfaces, a snow blower is the better option.

For personal use, a single-stage snow thrower may be sufficient, especially if your primary concern is clearing driveways and sidewalks. However, for larger properties, commercial operations, or areas with heavy snowfall, a more powerful two-stage snow blower would be more appropriate.

Conclusion

No matter which term you prefer—snow thrower or snow blower—both are powerful tools designed for clearing snow. The choice between them comes down to your specific needs and the environment you're clearing snow from. Whether you're a homeowner looking to keep your property clear or a commercial operation managing large areas, understanding the differences between snow throwers and snow blowers can help you make an informed decision and choose the right tool for the job.