Are you clearing a small walkway, a standard driveway, or a large yard? Choosing the right snow blower is about more than engine power and price. Snow type, snow volume, the surface, and the size of the area determine which machine is the best fit.
For smaller, flat areas with a hard surface and light snow, a compact single-stage snow blower may be sufficient. For larger driveways, gravel, and wet or heavy snow, a suitable two-stage snow blower is often a better choice. You should also consider traction, working width, and maintenance requirements.
Here are eight practical tips to help you find a snow blower suited to Norwegian winter conditions.
1. Consider snow volume and the size of the area
The first thing you should do is consider how much snow you usually have to clear. A small driveway with wet, heavy snow can demand more from the machine than a larger area with light fresh snow.
In much of Norway, changing temperatures, wet snow, and compacted plowed snow can make snow removal challenging. Therefore, you should choose a snow blower suited to the conditions where you live.
Ask yourself these questions:
- How large is the area to be cleared? Is it a short walkway, a standard driveway, or a larger yard?
- What type of snow do you get? Is the snow usually light and dry, or wet and heavy?
- How often do you clear? Do you remove the snow as it falls, or does the machine need to handle large amounts at once?
- What is the surface like? Do you have asphalt, paving stones, gravel, or uneven terrain?
- Where should the snow be thrown? Do you have plenty of space next to the driveway, or does the snow need to be moved further away?
For a small walkway or driveway with a hard surface, a compact model may be sufficient. For larger areas, you should prioritize capacity, traction, and working width. If you often have heavy plowed snow, a more powerful model may be necessary even if the area is relatively small.
2. Choose between single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage snow blowers
One key difference between snow blowers is how they collect and throw the snow. The most common types are single-stage and two-stage snow blowers, while some manufacturers also offer three-stage models.
| Type of snow blower | Best suited for | Key considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Single-stage snow blower | Smaller areas with a hard surface and light snow. | Compact and easy to maneuver, but often less suited to gravel and heavy snow. |
| Two-stage snow blower | Driveways, larger areas, and more demanding snow conditions. | Good capacity, but often heavier and requiring more space. |
| Three-stage snow blower | Certain demanding clearing tasks with large snow volumes. | Compare actual capacity and ease of use, not just the number of stages. |
A single-stage snow blower uses an auger or rotor that collects and throws the snow directly. A two-stage model also has a separate fan that sends the snow through the chute. Three-stage models have an additional processing stage.
Our tip: For many Norwegian driveways with varying snow conditions, a suitable two-stage snow blower is a natural starting point. For smaller areas with light snow, a single-stage model may be sufficient.
3. Battery-powered or gasoline-powered snow blower?
The choice between battery, cord, and gasoline affects ease of use, operating time, and maintenance. Modern battery-powered snow blowers are available in several sizes, so the power source alone does not determine capacity.
Battery-powered snow blower
A battery-powered snow blower offers freedom of movement without an extension cord and has no local exhaust emissions during use. It is easy to start and does not require maintenance of a gasoline engine.
Battery power may be a good fit if you want easy operation and less engine maintenance. Both compact single-stage models and more powerful battery-powered two-stage snow blowers are available.
Be aware that operating time is affected by temperature, snow type, and load. Check whether batteries and a charger are included, and whether you need extra batteries to clear the entire area.
Gasoline-powered snow blower
A gasoline-powered snow blower may be suitable for larger clearing tasks, prolonged work, and demanding snow conditions. You are not dependent on battery charging, but the machine requires fuel and regular engine maintenance.
Gasoline models are available in different sizes and capacity classes. Therefore, compare the specific features of the model rather than assuming that all gasoline-powered snow blowers are more powerful than battery-powered alternatives.
Remember that gasoline engines emit exhaust and should never be used in garages or other enclosed spaces due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
What about corded snow blowers?
A corded snow blower can be an alternative for smaller areas near a suitable power outlet. You do not need to charge batteries, but you must keep the cord away from the auger and use a power connection that meets the manufacturer's requirements.
4. Wheels or tracks – which is best?
The choice between wheels and tracks affects traction, stability, and how easy the snow blower is to maneuver.
Snow blower with wheels: Can be practical on flat and relatively level areas. Wheel models are often easier to maneuver on hard surfaces, especially if they have good steering and adjustable traction.
Snow blower with tracks: May be suitable if you have a sloped driveway, uneven terrain, or need extra traction. Tracks can provide better grip under certain conditions, but they do not automatically make the machine safe on ice or on steep slopes.
Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for slopes and surfaces. It is important that you can steer and stop the machine in a controlled manner.
Our tip: For a flat driveway, wheels may be sufficient. If you have challenging terrain or slopes, tracks may be worth considering.
5. Choose the right working width and throw distance
The working width determines how wide a path the snow blower clears in a single pass. A wider machine can reduce the number of passes on large areas but may be more difficult to handle in narrow passages.
For smaller driveways, a compact snow blower may be more practical, while larger yards may benefit from a wider model.
Throw distance is important if the snow needs to be moved over greater distances. Remember that the stated maximum throw distance may vary depending on snow type, wind, and load. Also ensure that the discharge direction can be adjusted so that the snow does not hit people, cars, or traffic areas.
Also check the machine's auger height and recommended area of use. A high auger opening does not necessarily mean that the machine can handle the same snow depth in a single pass under all conditions.
Our tip: Measure the narrowest passage and the space where the snow blower will be stored. Check the machine's overall dimensions, not just the working width.
6. Look for features that make snow removal easier
Modern snow blowers may have several features that make the work more comfortable and efficient. Which features you need depends on how often and how long you use the machine.
- Electric start: Makes it possible to start certain gasoline engines without pulling the starter cord.
- Adjustable snow discharge: Allows you to control the direction in which the snow is thrown.
- Adjustable traction: Makes it easier to adapt the speed to the snow conditions.
- Steering assist: Can make larger and heavier machines easier to maneuver.
- LED lights: Provide better visibility when clearing snow in the dark.
- Heated handles: Can make long working sessions more comfortable.
If possible, try operating the machine with winter gloves. Check that you can easily reach the handles and controls, and that the machine is comfortable to steer.
Our tip: Prioritize good traction, easy steering, and the right capacity before choosing additional comfort features.
7. Consider price, maintenance, and spare parts
The price of a snow blower varies depending on size, power source, capacity, and equipment. It is therefore important to compare machines that actually meet the same needs.
An affordable snow blower may be a good choice for a small driveway, but if the machine is too weak for the snow conditions, the work can be both time-consuming and frustrating.
Before you decide, you should check:
- Whether batteries and a charger are included with battery-powered models.
- Whether shipping and any assembly are included.
- Which accessories are included.
- Whether necessary spare parts are available.
- What warranty terms apply.
Maintenance of snow blowers is also important. Gasoline-powered models require engine servicing according to the manufacturer's recommendations, while battery-powered models do not. However, all models require inspection of mechanical components and wear parts.
Check the auger, chute, scraper bar, any skid shoes, and safety features, among other things. Follow the manufacturer's service schedule.
If the machine becomes blocked, it must be stopped and secured against accidental starting according to the manufacturer's instructions. Wait until all moving parts have stopped, and use the recommended cleaning tool. Never use your hands to remove snow from the auger or chute.
Our tip: Choose a snow blower for which you can easily obtain service and spare parts. This may be at least as important as the purchase price itself.
8. Compare snow blowers from reputable brands
When buying a snow blower, you should compare more than the brand and engine power. Look at how the machine is constructed, what snow conditions it is designed for, and how easy it is to use and maintain.
A well-known brand name is not a guarantee on its own that the machine will suit your needs.
Pay particular attention to capacity, traction, working width, ease of use, and access to spare parts. Read reviews and user experiences, but consider whether the test conditions resemble your own.
A snow blower that works well in light fresh snow is not necessarily as effective in wet snow and heavy plowed snow.
Our tip: Compare specific models based on the task, and choose a machine that has the capacity for the most demanding snow conditions you usually encounter.
Ariens snow blowers at Anton's Timber
At Anton's Timber, you will find Ariens snow blowers for various clearing needs. Whether you are clearing a standard driveway or a larger yard, we can help you assess which features you should prioritize.
Ariens Deluxe 28 – for driveways and larger areas
Ariens Deluxe 28 is suitable for those who need a snow blower for regular clearing of driveways and larger, open areas. The model may be an alternative when working width and capacity are important priorities.
Price: €3,442.95.
Ariens Alpine 28 RT – snow blower with tracks
Ariens Alpine 28 RT is a tracked snow blower that may be suitable for demanding snow conditions and areas where traction is important. Tracks can provide advantages on uneven surfaces and in some sloped driveways.
Price: €5,902.95.
Ariens Compact 24 RapidTrack – compact model with tracked drive
Ariens Compact 24 RapidTrack is an alternative for those who want a more compact snow blower with tracked drive. The model may be suitable when both traction and maneuverability are important considerations.
Price: €3,566.95.
The models are listed as special-order items at Anton's Timber. Contact us for information about availability, delivery time, and which snow blower suits your needs.
Frequently asked questions about snow blowers
Which snow blower should I choose for a standard driveway?
A two-stage snow blower is often a good starting point if you get wet snow, larger snow volumes, or have gravel. For a small, flat driveway with a hard surface and light snow, a compact single-stage model may be sufficient.
Are battery-powered snow blowers good enough for the Norwegian winter?
Yes, if the model and battery capacity suit the task. More powerful battery-powered two-stage models may be suitable for larger driveways. Remember that cold and heavy snow can reduce operating time.
Can I use a snow blower on gravel?
Yes, certain models are designed for gravel. Many two-stage snow blowers have adjustable skid shoes that make it possible to increase the distance between the auger and the surface. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations.
How large a snow blower do I need?
It depends on the size of the area, the snow depth, the snow type, and how much room you have to maneuver. A wider snow blower may be effective on large, open areas, while a smaller model is often easier to use in narrow passages.
Find the right snow blower at Anton's Timber
The right snow blower can make winter snow removal both easier and more efficient. The most important thing is to choose a machine that suits the snow conditions, the surface, and the size of the area you are clearing.
At Anton's Timber, you will find Ariens snow blowers for various needs. Whether you are clearing a standard driveway or a larger yard, we can help you assess which features you should prioritize.
Contact Anton's Timber if you need help choosing the right snow blower. Feel free to tell us how large the area you are clearing is, what surface you have, and what snow conditions are common where you live.