7 Essential Snow Blowing Tips And Techniques

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Using a snow blower may seem straightforward, but there are many do's and don'ts to safe and efficient operation. Taking the wrong approach can lengthen the chore process, add to your workload, damage your equipment, and even start a fire! It's important to understand proper snow blowing techniques, which is why we gathered up the following tips. If you have any questions or want to shop snow blowers for sale, chat with the experts at Bobcat of York/Frederick/Hagerstown/Adams County. We operate dealerships throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland.

1. Add Fuel To A Cold Snow Blower

Always, always, always refuel when the snow blower is fully cooled down. Refueling soon after the engine is turned off (or even while the engine is running) can cause extensive damage to the machine. Even worse, it can spark a dangerous fire. If you run out of fuel partway through the task, wait long enough before adding more.

2. Start Up The Snow Blower In A Safe Space

Don't turn on the machine in an enclosed area, such as a shed or crowded garage. If you must start it up inside, choose an area that is well-ventilated. Starting up the equipment outside is the ideal technique, so choose that approach whenever possible.

3. Never Leave The Snow Blower Running And Unattended

Sure, you may need to go grab something really fast. But always turn off the equipment first, then walk away. It's unwise to leave any equipment running and unattended.

4. Start Before Snow Buildup Reaches 6 Inches

Sometimes, it's best to start snow blowing while the flakes are continuing to fall. If possible, start up the task before the snow hits 6 inches. Sure, it will take more time to clear it away. But the perks are hard to beat.

With this technique:

Your equipment won't need to work as hard, which reduces wear and tear on the machine.
You can move the snow farther.
You make snow banks with reduced heights.

5. Know Where To Move The Snow

Avoid moving the snow:

In the direction of a house.
In the direction of people.
Into the street where it could hit a passing car.
Onto a spot that you already did the work of clearing away.
In the path of a city snow plow, which could end up pushing it right back into your yard.

Instead, approach snow blowing with a pathway in mind. Decide where you want the unwanted snow to go, then determine the best way to get it there.

6. Slow Is Steady, Steady Is Fast

It's tempting to speed through this chore in hopes of getting it done faster. But try to resist! Going too fast can clog the snow blower's chute. This will take a big chunk of time to fix, will add wear and tear to the machine, and ultimately reduce the equipment's lifespan. Instead, adopt a steady and manageable pace.

7. Focus On Blowing The Snow Farther Away

You want to avoid moving the snow part way off, then having to move it again in a second pass. This creates unnecessary work for the snow blower.

There are a few techniques to get the snow farther away and reduce the number of passes you take.

Aim for passes that are one-third to one-half the width of the machine.
Aim to overlap the last row a small amount.
Operate at full rpm and lower ground speed.
Move the chute diverter to a full raised position.
Blow with the wind.

We hope you enjoyed this guide to snow blowing tips and techniques. For more advice or to shop snow blowers for sale, visit Bobcat of York/Frederick/Hagerstown/Adams County. Our friendly staff can answer questions, make suggestions, and assist with anything you need. Our dealerships are based in York and Hanover, Pennsylvania, as well as Frederick and Hagerstown, Maryland. Reach out online, give us a call, or stop by your nearest dealership.