Yet again, much of the U.S. is getting blasted by winter weather. If you live in any of the Northeastern states, you're probably buried under blizzard conditions about now. And at this point in this never-ending winter, you're probably over it (I know I am).
While some areas may have up to a foot or more of new snow, others may get a dusting or just a few inches this week. While snow blowers are usually best for heavier snowfall, if you are only expecting a few inches, an electric snow shovel may be the perfect tool to clear your driveway this weekend. Most electric snow shovels have a clearing depth of 5 to 8 inches making them an economical option for those living in areas that don't get heavy snowfall.
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Still boasting impressive power and features, the best electric snow shovels can move heavier snow quickly without a lot of manual effort. Understanding the differences between snow blowers and electric snow shovels can help you make the best decision for your home or business.
In this article: Snow Joe Cordless Snow Shovel Kit, SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 12 in. Power Head Snow Shovel Kit and Haofy Cordless Electric Snow Shovel
Electric shovels for snow have a 10- to 12-inch swath that makes them ideal for a small driveway, deck, patio or sidewalk. Their maneuverability makes hard-to-reach areas accessible. Cordless models have a limited battery charge that may not last long enough for heavy snowfalls.
Snow blowers are best for long driveways and parking areas that require a longer operation time. They can remove snow in paths that are 18 to 38 inches wide. Gas-powered snow blowers operate longer than battery-powered units.
Electric snow shovels are easier to operate than snow blowers and require less physical exertion. They typically weigh less than 20 pounds, and many have ergonomic handles to protect your lower back.
Snow blowers can weigh over 100 pounds, and even with self-propelled models and wide tires, they can be a workout to operate for extended periods.
Both styles are less taxing physically than using a manual snow shovel, but anyone with physical limitations will be best served by an electric snow shovel.
If you don't have a storage shed or wide space in your garage, electric snow shovels are best. They are narrow and can fit just about anywhere. Snow blowers need a larger storage area because the wider auger is rigid and made from steel.
Electric snow shovels are less expensive than snow blowers. The smallest, least powerful ones start at $100 and can reach $300 for those with multiple batteries, lights for nighttime snow removal and other features. Basic snow blowers begin at $250 to $300 and can push $700 to $1,000 with larger sizes and more powerful engines.
Q. Will I need an extension cord for a corded snow shovel?
A. Most corded electric snow shovels require an extension cord. Measure your farthest point from the electrical outlet to make sure you have enough slack when operating it.
Q. Are there gas-powered snow shovels?
A. No, there are only electric snow shovels, either corded or battery-powered. This is because electric snow shovels are similar to single-stage snow throwers that lift the snow and launch it aside in one motion. Gasoline engines are best suited for two- and three-stage motors that drop the snow into an impeller, which blows the snow long distances.
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Snow Joe Cordless Snow Shovel Kit
This cordless shovel can clear a path 10 inches wide and 5 inches deep, so it's great for decks, steps and narrow walkways. It runs on a brushless motor and is designed to be lightweight for easier handling.
SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 12 in. Power Head Snow Shovel Kit
The SKIL PWR CORE 40 snow shovel offers a 12-inch clearing width and can throw snow up to 20 feet. It includes a 4.0Ah battery and charger and uses a brushless motor for improved performance and efficiency, bridging the gap between a manual shovel and a small snow blower.
Haofy Cordless Electric Snow Shovel
This battery-powered model features a 12-inch clearing width. It comes with a 4000mAh battery and has an aluminum telescopic handle for adjustable length, making it adaptable for users of different heights.
With a wider 17-inch clearing path, this cordless unit can clear snow faster on driveways and sidewalks and is a bit closer to a compact snow blower. It has an adjustable chute for directing snow and runs on dual 20V batteries.
MAVIS LAVEN Electric Snow Shovel
Powered by a 400W brushless motor and a 4000mAh battery, this cordless shovel is built for courtyards, driveways and sidewalks. It includes an auxiliary handle for added control, and its compact footprint makes it easier to maneuver than bulkier snow blowers.
Westinghouse WSnow11SD Corded Snow Shovel
This corded electric model has an 11-inch clearing width and can throw snow up to 20 feet. It’s rated to plow up to 300 pounds of snow per minute, making it a good choice for clearing driveways, steps and porches.
ioseecj Cordless Electric Snow Shovel
This rechargeable snow shovel has a quick-release handle and a speed switch that makes it easy to adjust on the fly while you use it. Designed for all kinds of snowy conditions, its powerful battery gives you flexible options for clearing snow quickly and easily.
Generic Electric Snow Shovel Cordless 650W
This cordless unit is built with a 650W motor and approximately 11 inches of clearing width. It can throw snow up to 8 meters, making it a good option for clearing driveways and walkways.
Keenstone 12" Cordless Electric Snow Shovel
This 12-inch cordless model is designed to handle snow up to 8 inches deep. Its brushless motor can clear up to 300 pounds per minute with a 16-foot throw distance, but at just 8 pounds, it's extremely lightweight and senior-friendly.
Generic Electric Cordless Snow Shovel
This brushless 13-inch cordless model includes batteries and a fast charger and can clear snow up to 6 inches deep. It has a wider clearing path than many models, and is designed for driveways and patios.
WORX Nitro 40V 12'' Cordless Snow Shovel
With three adjustable throwing directions, two speeds and the ability to clear a four-car driveway on one charge, this cordless snow shovel is handy to have around for the next winter storm. It can throw snow up to 25 feet making it easy to get a clean path in a short time with a clearing width of 12 inches and a clearing depth of 6 inches. It's lightweight and easy to store.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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