Bigger, better, and friendlier describe the latest snow throwers. Many also cost less, thanks to price pressure from retailers like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Sears, which account for the most sales.

Best of all, you needn't buy the biggest snow thrower to get competent clearing. Honda and Toro are among the brands with smaller models that rival some larger machines. Other advances include better steering and chute controls, along with easy-handling electric models for smaller driveways.

WHAT’S AVAILABLE

Major brands include Ariens, Craftsman (Sears), Honda, Husqvarna, John Deere, Simplicity, Toro, Troy-Bilt, Yard Machines, and Yard-Man. Here are the pros and cons of each type:

Single-stage electric. These are best for short, flat driveways, decks, and walks with snow levels of roughly 4 inches or less. Single-stage machines rely on a rubber-edged auger to move and disperse snow and provide some pulling power. They’re lightest, smallest, and easiest to handle and store. They’re also less noisy than gas-powered models, and their electric motors free you from fueling and other engine maintenance. But they tend to pick up and throw gravel, and their 11- to 18-inch swath slows clearing. Limited drive action isn’t enough for steep slopes and can pull from side to side. There’s also the cord. Price: $100 to $300.

Single-stage gas. These work the same way as electric versions and are a good choice for flat, midsize paved driveways and walks with snow levels less than 8 inches. They’re relatively light and easy to handle, and take up about as much space as a mower. Most clear a 20- to 22-inch swath and offer electric starting. But like electrics, they’re a poor choice for gravel driveways and tend to pull sideways on steep slopes. They also require regular maintenance. Price: $300 to $900.

Two-stage gas. These are best for long, wide, or hilly driveways with snow levels higher than 8 inches. Two-stage models add drive wheels and a fanlike impeller to help disperse the snow they pick up. And because the auger doesn’t contact the ground, they’re essential on gravel. Some clear a swath 28 to 30 inches wide, and all offer electric starting. But two-stage models are relatively heavy, can take as much space as lawn tractors, and require regular maintenance. Price: $600 to $2,100.

IMPORTANT FEATURES

A one-handed drive/auger control on two-stage models lets you engage the drive-wheel and auger-control levers with one hand, leaving the other free to control the chute. Handlebar-mounted trigger releases ease steering on two-stage models by quickly disconnecting power to either or both wheels while moving. A dead-man control is an especially critical safety feature. It stops the spinning auger (and on two-stage models, the impeller) when the handlebar-grip controls are released. A clearing tool—typically a plastic stick attached to the machine—lets you safely clear clogs in the discharge chute or auger housing. A single-lever joystick on two-stage machines or a long handle on single-stage models lets you quickly change the direction and height of snow thrown from the discharge chute. Most gas-powered models now offer plug-in electric starting for use near an outlet. Headlights for night use are an added nicety on many two-stage machines.

HOW TO CHOOSE

Consult a doctor before buying a snow thrower if you have hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease. Also consider having your driveway plowed if it’s especially long and two or more cars wide. If you decide to buy one of these machines, match the type to your space and climate. Other tips:

Try the controls. Independent dealers and even big-box stores typically have floor samples. Be sure you’re comfortable with handle height and chute adjustment, which you’ll use frequently.

Don’t count horses. You’ll find two-stage snow throwers that promise 11 hp or more. But some less-powerful machines clear snow just as well as the highest-horsepower models. Some manufacturers and retailers also push Briggs & Stratton engines vs. the usual Tecumseh units; we found competent performance for the Tecumseh engines on most machines.

Don’t get spun by speeds. Most two-stage machines have five or six forward speeds —useful for slow going through heavy snow to prevent clogs and quick trips back to the garage. While seven speeds sound better, most were within the typical range for six-speed models.

Play it safe. Keep people and pets away when using any snow thrower. Wear ear protection with gas-powered machines. Take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion. And use a clearing tool or a wooden broom handle—never hands or feet—when clearing the chute or auger housing.

Copyright © 2003-2007 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.

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