Things to keep in mind when buying a snow thrower

If you want the best snow thrower for your needs you should consider the size of the area you want to clear and the typical snow conditions in your part of the country. A snow thrower with a powerful engine and wide working width will save you time if the area is large and covered in deep, heavy snow. Smaller areas covered in dry snow require less power. The Husqvarna range of snow throwers includes several different engine sizes, and working widths between 61 cm and 76 cm.

The one-stage thrower is a simpler type of machine that is perfect if you are only doing lighter snow shoveling work for your home. Unlike the two-stage thrower, the one-stage snow thrower doesn’t have an impeller fan. It also doesn’t have powered wheels; instead the auger screw drives it forward.

The two-stage models are the most effective for heavy and packed snow. Two-stage means that the snow moves through the machine in two steps; first through the auger screw before being discharged through the chute by an impeller fan. The two-stage models also have powered wheels.

A snow thrower with power steering is easier to manoeuvre than other models. Choose a model with over steering if you need to make lots of turns; either while clearing large open areas where you need to go back and forth many times or when removing snow from winding walkways.

• For trouble-free cold starting, you might consider buying a model with electric start. It’s a great help, especially on those really cold days.
• For more comfortable operation when the temperatures are really low, choose a snow thrower with heated handles.