Types of Gas Snow Blowers at Do it Best
When snow covers your driveway, sidewalks, and paths, a gas snow blower can save a ton of time and effort. Do it Best offers a variety of gas snow blowers, including both single-stage and two-stage models. Understanding the differences between these two styles can help you avoid choosing a snow blower that isn’t well-suited to your property.
Here’s a breakdown of the different types of gas-powered snow blowers at Do it Best:
Snow Blower Type | Best For | How It Works | Key Considerations |
Smaller paved driveways, sidewalks, patios, and moderate snowfall | A rotating auger gathers snow and directs it through the discharge chute in one motion | Compact, maneuverable, and easier to store; generally intended for smoother surfaces | |
Medium to large driveways, heavy snowfall, and packed snow | The auger collects snow, while a separate impeller pushes it through the chute | Provides greater clearing capability; available with self-propelled drive systems | |
Gravel and uneven pavement | Slide shoes raise the machine and help maintain clearance from the ground | Proper adjustment helps reduce the chance of picking up loose gravel or debris |
A one-stage gas snow blower is typically smaller and is useful if it climates with light to moderate snowfall every year. Two-stage models are more powerful, with some featuring self-propellers and multiple speeds, making them better for heavy yearly snowfall and packed snow. Adjustable skid shoes can also make a two-stage snow blower better for clearing snow on gravel or uneven ground.
Manual vs. Electric Start
The starting system is an important feature to compare when choosing a gas snow blower. Manual-start models use a recoil cord that you pull to start the engine. This setup can work well if you’re comfortable with a pull-start engine and want fewer starting components to consider. Electric-start snow blowers let you start the engine using a push-button system, which can be more convenient on really cold days or if pulling a recoil cord is difficult. Depending on the model, the electric starter may need to be connected to a power outlet during startup, so check the product specifications before purchasing.
Choosing a Gas Snow Blower For Your Property
Before purchasing a gas powered snow blower, consider how and where you’ll use it. A snow blower that fits your driveway, storage area, and usual winter conditions will be most convenient throughout the season. Consider the following before the final decision:
- Assess the Area You Need to Clear: A small one-stage snow thrower may be enough for a short paved driveway. Two-stage and wider models can cover large driveways and parking areas in fewer passes.
- Consider Typical Snowfall: Light or moderate snowfall can usually be handled by a one-stage model. For climates with heavy yearly snowfall and packed snow you might want the additional capacity of a two-stage snow blower.
- Consider the Surface: Asphalt and concrete work with one-stage or two-stage models. For gravel or uneven pavement, look for a two-stage snow blower with adjustable slide shoes.
- Starting Systems: Some models have electric push-button start, while others have a recoil starter as a manual starting option.
- Look at Chute Controls: Chute rotation and deflector controls let you adjust where snow is thrown.
- Plan for Storage: Ensure the snow blower you choose will fit in your garage or shed before purchasing.
For a full guide on purchasing a snow blower, see our buying guide: Snow Blower Buying Guide
Find the Right Gas Snow Blower at Do it Best Today
Get ready for snowy driveways and walkways this winter with a gas snow blower from Do it Best. Compare one-stage and two-stage models, review available features, and check out additional snow blower accessories if needed.
Shop all gas snow blowers online today and take advantage of home delivery or same-day pickup at a local Do it Best store.
Gas Snow Blower FAQs
It depends on the area and conditions. One-stage models are commonly used on smaller paved surfaces with low-moderate snowfall. Two-stage models are better for larger areas, heavy snowfall, and uneven surfaces.
Yes. A two-stage snow blower with slide shoes is the best choice for clearing snow on gravel. The additional clearance added from the slide shoes helps keep the auger housing above loose stones.
A narrower width gives you easier maneuvering around sidewalks, porches, and tight spaces. A wider model can clear large driveways in fewer passes but requires more room to operate and store.
Inspect the machine before each use and complete scheduled service according to the owner’s manual. It’s also helpful to prepare the snow blower before winter and properly store it at the end of the season. Our article on how to maintain a snow blower covers key maintenance steps and storage.