Snow blowers come in a variety of shapes, sizes and power levels.
There are many different types of snow blowers. The types of snow blowers are usually categorized by cost, size, power source and snow moving ability. The type of snow blower that you need is largely dependent upon the area in which you live and the amount of snowfall you get annually. Below we will briefly cover some different types of snow blowers and determine which type of snow blower is best suited for the environment in and around Lake Tahoe.
Types of Snow Blowers
There are three main types of snow blowers – single stage, two stage and three stage. Each of these types have different subtypes with different features. Let’s start with single stage blowers.
According the Lowes snow blower buying guide, single stage blowers can come in gas or electric models. Single stage blowers feature a single auger that propels the snow through the shoot. This single action is why they are called “single stage.” Single stage blowers are usually much lighter and easier to handle than the larger two stage blowers. Among the electric models, you can choose from a regular electric connected by a power cord and the cordless electric models.
Single stage snow blowers are good for environments with average snowfall and are best used on paved surfaces because the auger actually touches the surface.
Two-stage Snow blowers
Two-stage snow blowers are strictly gas models that are used to move more snow in less time than the single stage. The two stage requires the extra power of a gas engine because the engine must drive both the auger and the second stage impeller which propels the snow out of the shoot. Most models have power driven wheels due to their weight, which reduces user fatigue, and they can be used on a variety of surfaces.
Three-Stage Snow blowers
Three stage snow blowers are similar to two stage in both power and weight. Three Stage blowers, however, feature an accelerator action stage that moves snow up to ten times faster than the two stage. They are best suited for applications that require the movement of large amounts of snow in a very short time.
Which Types of Snow blowers are Best for The Lake Tahoe Area?
Nestled between the Sierra Nevada and the Carson range and sitting at an elevation of more than 6,000 feet, the Lake Tahoe region receives an average annual snowfall amount of 125 to 500 inches, depending on the specific area. This is well beyond the average amount seen in the rest of the country.
If you live in the Lake Tahoe region and are in the market for a snow blower, the best type of snow blower for the region and your pocketbook is the two stage. The two stage blower provides the power necessary to get through the large snowfall amounts along with the ability to traverse uneven terrain. If you need snow moved fast, consider a three stage model.
Snow Blower Repair with Greg’s Small Engines
No matter what type of snow bower you own, Greg’s Small Engine Service and Repair specializes in snow blower repair and maintenance in the Lake Tahoe Region. Greg’s Small Engine and Repair offers pick and delivery service 7 days a week. We can come to you, pick up your snow blower, service it and return it to you. Contact us today to get your snowblower serviced before the snow gets bad! r
