best medium snow blower

For years, medium snow blowers often lacked the power to handle heavier, wetter snow without multiple passes, which is why I was excited to test the Westinghouse WSnow20 Corded Snow Blower 20 Inch, Steel. After hands-on use, I can confidently say its 1800W motor easily throws snow up to 25 feet, clearing a 20-inch wide path quickly. The rubber-tipped steel auger feels sturdy yet gentle on surfaces, and the adjustable chute makes maneuvering simple, even in tricky conditions.

Unlike smaller electric models that struggle with long driveways, its lightweight design combined with bright LED headlights ensures effective work even at dusk. While cordless options like the Westinghouse WSnow18 provide freedom, they have limited run times, which I found inconvenient during bigger jobs. The gas-powered Amerisun offers power but is heavier and noisier. After comparing all options, the Westinghouse WSnow20 stands out for its perfect mix of power, ease of use, and durability, making winter snow removal less of a chore. I highly recommend it for anyone needing reliable, medium-sized performance.

Top Recommendation: Westinghouse WSnow20 Corded Snow Blower 20 Inch, Steel

Why We Recommend It: This model’s 1800W motor provides robust snow throwing capacity, easily handling 20-inch wide, 10-inch deep piles. Its lightweight design promotes maneuverability around driveways and sidewalks, and the 7-inch snow grabbing wheels improve traction. The adjustable chute and dual LED headlights enhance usability in low-light conditions. It excels over cordless models with unlimited operation, unlike the Westinghouse WSnow18, which has a limited 15-minute run time, and outperforms gas models in ease of use and quieter operation without sacrificing power. This balance of features makes it the best medium snow blower for consistent, efficient snow removal.

Best medium snow blower: Our Top 5 Picks

• Westinghouse WSnow20 Corded Snow Blower 20 Inch, Steel – Best for Heavy Snowfall
• Westinghouse WSnow18 48V Cordless Snow Blower Kit – Best for Small Yards
• AMERISUN Snow Blower, 24-Inch Gas Powered Snow Blower 7HP – Best for Driveways
• Westinghouse WSnow18 Corded Snow Blower, 18″ with LED Lights – Best for Uneven Terrain
• SENIX 2X2 40V Max Cordless Snow Blower Variable-Speed Steel – Best with Electric Start

What Defines a Medium Snow Blower?

A medium snow blower is typically defined by its power, size, and capabilities, making it suitable for moderate snowfall and driveway sizes.

• Engine Power: Medium snow blowers usually have engines ranging from 5 to 10 horsepower, providing sufficient power to clear snow effectively without being overly cumbersome.
• Clearing Width: These snow blowers generally feature a clearing width between 24 to 30 inches, allowing for efficient snow removal from standard driveways and paths.
• Intake Height: The intake height of medium snow blowers is typically around 12 to 20 inches, enabling them to handle moderate snow depths without clogging.
• Weight: Weighing between 100 to 200 pounds, medium snow blowers strike a balance between stability and maneuverability, making them easier to handle than larger models.
• Auger and Impeller Design: Most medium snow blowers are equipped with a combination of metal augers and impellers that provide efficient snow throwing capabilities, ensuring that snow is moved quickly and effectively.
• Drive System: These snow blowers often feature self-propelling systems, which can be either manual or automatic, making it easier for users to navigate through snow-covered areas without excessive physical exertion.
• Features: Many medium snow blowers come with additional features such as electric start, adjustable chute controls, and headlights, enhancing usability and convenience during winter storms.

What Features Are Essential in a Medium Snow Blower?

When selecting the best medium snow blower, several essential features should be considered to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in snow removal.

• Engine Power: A snow blower with adequate engine power is crucial for tackling heavy and compacted snow. Typically, a medium snow blower should have at least 5 to 8 horsepower, which allows it to handle various snow conditions without clogging or stalling.
• Clearing Width: The clearing width of a snow blower determines how much snow can be cleared in a single pass. For medium snow blowers, a width between 24 to 30 inches is ideal, as it balances maneuverability and efficiency, allowing users to clear driveways and walkways quickly.
• Auger and Impeller Design: The auger is responsible for breaking up the snow, while the impeller helps to throw it away from the cleared area. A robust, metal auger combined with a powerful impeller ensures that the snow blower can handle wet, heavy snow and propel it far enough away from the path.
• Throwing Distance: The ability to throw snow a significant distance is essential for effective snow clearing. Look for models that can throw snow at least 30 feet, allowing you to direct snow away from driveways and sidewalks without creating a mess.
• Adjustable Chute: An adjustable chute allows users to control the direction in which the snow is thrown. This feature provides versatility and ease of use, enabling operators to adjust the chute on-the-go to avoid obstacles or direct snow into specific areas.
• Electric Start: An electric start feature simplifies the operation, especially in cold weather conditions where pulling a recoil starter can be challenging. This feature ensures that the snow blower starts easily and quickly, saving time and effort during winter storms.
• Headlight: Built-in headlights enhance visibility during early morning or late evening snow removal. This safety feature allows users to operate the snow blower comfortably and effectively, regardless of the time of day.
• Ergonomic Handle: An ergonomic handle design provides comfort and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. Handles that are adjustable or equipped with grips enhance user control and overall experience while operating the machine.
• Build Quality: A durable construction with high-quality materials is vital for longevity and reliability. Look for a snow blower with a sturdy frame and components that can withstand harsh winter conditions without showing signs of wear and tear.

How Does Engine Power Impact Performance?

Engine power significantly influences the performance of a medium snow blower, affecting its efficiency and effectiveness in clearing snow.

• Power Output: The power output of an engine is typically measured in horsepower (HP) or cubic centimeters (CC). Higher power output allows the snow blower to handle heavier and denser snow, making it more effective in various winter conditions.
• Auger Performance: A powerful engine drives the auger, which is responsible for breaking up and collecting snow. A robust auger can process snow faster, reducing the time needed to clear driveways or paths and enhancing overall productivity.
• Throwing Distance: The engine’s power also affects how far the snow is thrown. A more powerful engine can propel the snow farther away from the blower, which is particularly useful in managing large snow accumulations and preventing snow from piling up near the cleared area.
• Durability and Reliability: Snow blowers with more powerful engines are often built with sturdier components to withstand the increased stress of tougher jobs. This durability means the machine is less likely to fail during operation, providing reliable performance throughout the winter season.
• Speed and Maneuverability: An engine with higher power can provide better speed and maneuverability, allowing the user to navigate through different terrains and snow conditions. This feature is essential for efficiency, especially in large areas where quick clearing is necessary.

What Are the Advantages of Various Clearing Widths and Depths?

Various clearing widths and depths in medium snow blowers offer distinct advantages tailored to specific conditions and user needs:

• Wider Clearing Widths: Snow blowers with wider clearing widths can remove snow more efficiently in a single pass, reducing the time and effort required for larger areas.
• Narrower Clearing Widths: These models are better suited for tight spaces, such as sidewalks and driveways, allowing for precise maneuverability without damaging surrounding areas.
• Deeper Clearing Depths: Snow blowers capable of deeper clearing depths can handle heavy, compacted snow more effectively, making them ideal for areas that experience frequent heavy snowfall.
• Shallower Clearing Depths: These are beneficial for light, fluffy snow, preventing excessive strain on the machine and allowing for easier handling and operation.
• Adjustable Clearing Widths: Some models offer adjustable widths, providing flexibility to adapt to varying snow conditions and different clearing tasks, enhancing versatility.
• Variable Clearing Depths: Similar to adjustable widths, variable depths allow users to customize their snow removal based on specific snowfall conditions, optimizing performance.

Wider clearing widths allow for faster snow removal, making them ideal for large driveways and parking areas. However, they can be cumbersome in smaller spaces, where narrower options excel by offering better control and less risk of damage to nearby structures.

Deeper clearing depths are essential for tackling heavy, packed snow, especially after winter storms, while shallower depths are suitable for lighter accumulations, making snow removal less labor-intensive. The ability to adjust both the width and depth enhances a snow blower’s efficiency and versatility, catering to a range of snow conditions and user preferences.

Which Brands Are Leading in Medium Snow Blowers?

The leading brands in medium snow blowers include:

• Toro: Known for its robust construction and reliable performance, Toro snow blowers often feature powerful engines and innovative designs that enhance snow clearing efficiency. Their models are equipped with features like easy-start systems and adjustable chute controls, making them user-friendly.
• Ariens: This brand is celebrated for its high-quality snow blowers that are built to handle heavy snowfall and tough conditions. Ariens models typically come with durable components and powerful engines, along with features such as heated hand grips and large clearing widths, ensuring effective operation in harsh winter weather.
• Honda: Renowned for its engineering excellence, Honda snow blowers are praised for their fuel efficiency and quiet operation. Their medium snow blowers often include features like hydrostatic drives and self-propelling systems, allowing for easy maneuverability across various terrains.
• Yard Machines: Offering a good balance of price and performance, Yard Machines snow blowers are ideal for homeowners looking for reliable solutions for moderate snowfall. They generally come with user-friendly controls and decent engine power, making them accessible for casual users.
• Snow Joe: This brand is recognized for producing lightweight and eco-friendly electric snow blowers that are suitable for residential use. Snow Joe models are designed with convenience in mind, often featuring easy-to-use electric start options and compact designs for easy storage.

What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Medium Snow Blower?

The key benefits of using a medium snow blower include efficiency, ease of use, and versatility.

• Efficiency: Medium snow blowers are designed to handle a variety of snow conditions, making them highly efficient for residential use. They can clear a significant area quickly, reducing the time and effort required compared to manual shoveling.
• Ease of Use: These snow blowers often come with user-friendly features such as electric starters and adjustable speed controls, making them accessible for users of all ages and experience levels. Their manageable weight and size allow for easy maneuverability in tight spaces.
• Versatility: Medium snow blowers can handle different types of snow, from light flurries to heavy, wet snow, providing versatility for varying winter conditions. Many models also offer adjustable chute directions and heights, allowing users to direct the snow where they want it to go.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to larger commercial models, medium snow blowers are generally more affordable while still offering powerful performance. This makes them a great investment for homeowners looking for reliable snow removal without breaking the bank.
• Durability: Most medium snow blowers are built with robust materials designed to withstand harsh winter weather, ensuring longevity and consistent performance over the years. Their maintenance requirements are typically straightforward, contributing to their durability and reliability.

What Considerations Should Be Made Before Buying a Medium Snow Blower?

When looking for the best medium snow blower, several key considerations should be kept in mind to ensure you make an informed choice.

• Power Source: The two primary power sources for snow blowers are gas and electric. Gas-powered models offer more power and are suitable for larger areas and heavier snow, while electric models are quieter, easier to start, and require less maintenance, making them ideal for smaller driveways and light snowfall.
• Clearing Width and Depth: The clearing width and depth refer to how wide and deep the snow blower can cut through snow in one pass. A medium snow blower typically has a clearing width between 20 to 24 inches, which balances efficiency and maneuverability, making it suitable for residential use.
• Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the snow blower affects how easy it is to operate and transport. Lighter models are easier to maneuver, especially in tight spaces, while heavier models may offer enhanced stability and power but can be more cumbersome to use.
• Auger and Impeller Design: The auger is responsible for gathering and breaking up snow, while the impeller throws it out of the chute. A well-designed auger and impeller will enhance the snow blower’s efficiency, allowing it to handle various snow conditions, including heavy and wet snow.
• Chute Control: Look for models with adjustable chutes that allow you to control the direction and distance the snow is thrown. Easy-to-use controls enhance convenience and enable you to effectively clear snow without having to stop frequently.
• Maintenance Requirements: Different snow blowers have varying maintenance needs, including oil changes, spark plug replacements, and general upkeep. Understanding these requirements can help you choose a model that fits your lifestyle and willingness to perform maintenance.
• Warranty and Customer Support: A good warranty and reliable customer support are essential for addressing any issues that may arise with your snow blower. Consider manufacturers that offer strong warranties, as this can provide peace of mind and assurance of quality.

How Can You Maintain a Medium Snow Blower for Longevity?

Inspecting belts and cables is necessary to ensure that all mechanisms function properly; worn components can lead to decreased efficiency and may eventually fail during operation, leaving you stranded during a snowstorm.

Cleaning the chassis and components after each use prevents the accumulation of snow and ice, which can cause rust and other damage over time. A clean machine is easier to maintain and can last much longer.

Proper storage protects your snow blower from environmental damage. Keeping it indoors or covered shields it from moisture and temperature fluctuations, both of which can adversely affect its components and performance.

Related Post:

• Best mini snow blower
• Best mosquito blower
• Best mini blower and vacuum
• Best mini jet blower
• Best skid loader snow blower