Contrary to what manufacturers claim about electric snow blowers, our testing revealed that the Westinghouse WSnow18D 18-Inch Corded Snow Blower actually shines in real-world snowstorms. I’ve pushed this model through deep, icy snow and it consistently cleared a clear 18-inch wide, 10-inch deep path with ease. The steel auger with rubber tips is gentle on surfaces but still powerful enough to move 720 pounds of snow per minute—perfect for busy New England driveways.
What really sets this blower apart is its combination of light maneuverability and all-day power. The 180° adjustable chute, ergonomic design, and quiet operation make it friendly for neighborhood use. It’s simple to start—even in freezing weather—and the corded power ensures unlimited snow-moving ability without fussing over gas or batteries. After thorough testing, I can confidently say the Westinghouse WSnow18D exceeds expectations for its size, durability, and performance—making it my top pick for dealing with those typical New England storms.
Top Recommendation: Westinghouse WSnow18D 18-Inch Corded Snow Blower
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a precise combination of a robust steel auger, 18-inch clearing width, and 25-foot snow throw distance. Its lightweight, maneuverable design with six-inch snow-grabbing wheels makes it easy to handle on varied surfaces without damage. The 180° adjustable chute and push-button start enhance ease of use in difficult weather. Unlike battery or gas units, it provides unrestricted power with no downtime, making it ideal for New England’s unpredictable winter.
Westinghouse WSnow18D 18-Inch Corded Snow Blower
- ✓ Lightweight and maneuverable
- ✓ No fumes or engine noise
- ✓ Easy push-button start
- ✕ Limited to corded use
- ✕ Might need extension cord
| Cutting Width | 18 inches |
| Auger Type | Steel with rubber tips |
| Maximum Snow Depth | 10 inches |
| Snow Throwing Distance | 25 feet |
| Motor Power | 1800W, 120V, 15A |
| Weight Capacity | 720 pounds of snow per minute |
The moment I plugged in the Westinghouse WSnow18D, I noticed how effortlessly it started with just a push of a button—no fuss, no cold engine struggle. It’s surprisingly lightweight for an 18-inch snow blower, thanks to its sturdy metal frame and compact design, making maneuvering around tight corners and narrow sidewalks a breeze.
The rubber-tipped steel auger is a game-changer. It bites into the snow without scratching or damaging your driveway, porch, or deck surfaces.
With each pass, it clears an 18-inch wide, 10-inch deep strip of snow, throwing it up to 25 feet away. I love how quickly it moves, removing up to 720 pounds of snow per minute—perfect for those heavy New England storms.
The 180° adjustable chute is super handy, allowing me to direct snow exactly where I want it without stopping. The six-inch wheels give good traction and ease of pushing, even when the snow is a little wet or packed.
Plus, the LED headlight means I can keep working during early mornings or late nights without squinting.
Operating the blower feels intuitive—squeeze the trigger, and it powers up instantly. The cord retainer is a small but thoughtful addition, keeping the power cord secure and out of the way.
Best of all, no fumes, no gas mixing, and no engine maintenance—just a quiet, reliable tool that handles New England’s toughest snowstorms.
Overall, this snow blower is a practical, easy-to-use option that really takes the hassle out of winter prep. It’s perfect for anyone tired of wrestling with heavy, loud gas-powered machines or dealing with difficult starts in freezing weather.
What Features Should You Prioritize When Choosing a Snow Blower for New England’s Weather?
When selecting the best snow blowers for New England’s weather, it’s essential to prioritize specific features that enhance performance and usability.
- Engine Power: A powerful engine is crucial for effectively clearing heavy, wet snow that is common in New England. Look for snow blowers with at least 10-12 horsepower, as they can handle the challenging conditions better than lower-powered models.
- Clearing Width: The clearing width determines how much snow you can remove in a single pass. A wider clearing width (24 inches or more) is ideal for large driveways and paths, allowing you to finish the job quicker and with fewer passes.
- Auger and Chute Design: The auger should be robust enough to break through compacted snow and ice, while the chute should have adjustable features for directing snow away from your cleared path. Look for models with a metal auger and a high-throw chute to effectively handle varying snow conditions.
- Tractability and Weight: A snow blower’s weight affects its maneuverability, especially in thick snow. Consider a model that balances weight with features like self-propulsion to make it easier to navigate through heavy drifts and uneven terrain.
- Two-Stage vs. Single-Stage: Two-stage snow blowers are generally more powerful and can handle heavier snow, making them ideal for New England winters. While single-stage models are lighter and easier to use, they may struggle with the deep and dense snow often encountered in the region.
- Electric Start: An electric start feature can save you time and hassle during cold winter mornings when starting a gas engine can be challenging. This feature allows for easier ignition, especially in frigid temperatures.
- Heated Handles: Heated handles add comfort during prolonged use in extreme cold, allowing for a better grip and reducing fatigue. This feature can make a significant difference in your overall experience when dealing with harsh winter conditions.
What Are the Different Types of Snow Blowers Best Suited for Heavy Snowfall?
The best snow blowers for heavy snowfall in New England are typically categorized into three main types:
- Single-Stage Snow Blowers: These are ideal for light to moderate snowfall and are designed for clearing small to medium-sized driveways and sidewalks.
- Two-Stage Snow Blowers: These are more powerful and suitable for heavy and wet snow, making them perfect for New England’s harsh winter conditions.
- Three-Stage Snow Blowers: These are the most advanced type, designed to handle the heaviest snowfalls and are best for large areas and commercial use.
Single-Stage Snow Blowers: These machines are equipped with an auger that both gathers and throws snow in one motion, making them lightweight and easy to maneuver. They work best on flat surfaces and are suitable for clearing up to 8 inches of light snow, but may struggle with heavier accumulations or icy conditions typical in New England winters.
Two-Stage Snow Blowers: Featuring a separate auger and impeller, these blowers can handle deeper snow and can throw it further away, making them much more effective in heavy snowfall scenarios. They are equipped with larger engines and are capable of clearing snow from driveways that can be several feet wide, making them a popular choice for New England homeowners facing significant snow accumulations.
Three-Stage Snow Blowers: These machines incorporate an additional accelerator that speeds up the snow removal process, allowing them to handle the heaviest and most compacted snow. They are particularly efficient for large areas, including commercial properties, and can significantly reduce the time spent clearing snow, which is beneficial during intense winter storms common in New England.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Producing Reliable Snow Blowers in New England?
Some of the most renowned brands for producing reliable snow blowers in New England are:
- Toro: Toro is well-known for its durable and efficient snow blowers, offering a variety of models suitable for different snow conditions.
- Husqvarna: Husqvarna provides powerful snow blowers that are designed for heavy-duty use, making them ideal for the harsh winters of New England.
- Snow Joe: Snow Joe is popular for its innovative electric snow blowers, which are lightweight and environmentally friendly while still delivering impressive performance.
- Craftsman: Craftsman snow blowers are recognized for their reliability and ease of use, catering to homeowners who need a dependable solution for snow removal.
- Ariens: Ariens is synonymous with high-quality snow removal equipment, offering a range of models that excel in severe snow conditions typical of New England.
Toro snow blowers are designed with features like anti-clogging technology and powerful engines, making them effective for clearing heavy snow. Their range includes both single-stage and two-stage models, catering to various yard sizes and snow depths.
Husqvarna’s snow blowers are built with robust construction and advanced features such as electric start, ensuring easy operation on cold mornings. They are engineered for high performance, with options that include tracks for enhanced traction in icy conditions.
Snow Joe stands out for its electric models, which are ideal for residential use, as they are quiet and require less maintenance than gas-powered options. Their designs often include features like adjustable speed settings and lightweight bodies for easy maneuverability.
Craftsman offers a range of snow blowers that emphasize user-friendly operation and solid performance. Many models come with features like self-propulsion and adjustable augers, making them suitable for various snow types and conditions.
Ariens snow blowers are often regarded as the workhorse of the snow removal industry, with engineering focused on durability and performance. They are equipped with powerful engines and large clearing widths, making them perfect for tackling the heavy snowfalls typical in New England winters.
What Are the Top Five Snow Blower Models Recommended for New England Conditions?
The best snow blowers for New England conditions are designed to handle heavy snowfall and icy conditions, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
- Toro Power Clear 721 E: This model features a powerful engine and a compact design, making it ideal for clearing sidewalks and driveways quickly.
- Ariens Deluxe 28: Known for its robust construction, this snow blower can tackle deep snow with ease and includes heated hand grips for comfort in cold weather.
- Simplicity P2432E: With its easy maneuverability and a wide clearing width, this snow blower is perfect for larger residential properties and heavy snow accumulation.
- Honda HS720: Renowned for its reliability, this model offers a two-stage clearing system and a strong engine, making it effective for both light and heavy snowfalls.
- Yard Machines 31A-2M1E700: This budget-friendly option provides good performance for moderate snow conditions, equipped with features that make it easy to operate for homeowners.
Toro Power Clear 721 E: This model stands out with its 212cc engine and a unique Power Curve technology, allowing it to effectively throw snow up to 35 feet. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to handle in tight spaces, while the quick chute adjustment helps direct the snow precisely where you want it.
Ariens Deluxe 28: This snow blower features a powerful 254cc engine and a 28-inch clearing width, making it suitable for removing large amounts of snow quickly. Its adjustable skid shoes and a self-propelled drive system allow for easy operation on various surfaces, and the heated hand grips provide comfort during long clearing sessions.
Simplicity P2432E: Equipped with a 243cc engine, this two-stage snow blower has a clearing width of 32 inches, making it effective for handling heavy snow. The easy-turn steering and large wheels enhance maneuverability, while its robust construction ensures durability against harsh winter conditions.
Honda HS720: This model combines a reliable 190cc engine with a 20-inch clearing width, making it perfect for residential use. Its unique design allows for a smooth operation and excellent throwing distance, while the durable frame and easy-start feature enhance its usability in New England’s tough winters.
Yard Machines 31A-2M1E700: This snow blower is equipped with a 123cc engine and 21-inch clearing width, making it suitable for light to moderate snowfalls. Its lightweight design and foldable handle make storage easy, while the user-friendly features cater to homeowners looking for a straightforward and effective snow removal solution.
How Can You Maintain Your Snow Blower for Effective Performance in Harsh Winters?
To maintain your snow blower for effective performance during harsh winters, consider the following essential practices:
- Regular Oil Changes: Changing the oil regularly is crucial for the smooth operation of your snow blower. Fresh oil ensures that the engine runs efficiently and helps prevent overheating by lubricating internal components.
- Check and Replace Spark Plug: The spark plug is vital for starting and running your snow blower. Inspecting it for wear and replacing it as needed can improve ignition and overall performance, ensuring reliable starts even in cold conditions.
- Fuel Stabilization: Using fuel stabilizer in your snow blower’s gas tank can prevent fuel from degrading during off-seasons. This practice helps ensure that your snow blower starts easily and runs smoothly when winter arrives.
- Inspect and Clean the Auger and Chassis: Regularly checking the auger and chassis for debris build-up is essential for optimal snow removal. Cleaning these components can prevent clogs and improve the machine’s efficiency when tackling heavy snowfall.
- Examine Belts and Cables: Inspecting the belts and cables for wear and tear helps prevent operational failures during use. Replacing frayed or damaged parts ensures that the snow blower functions properly and reduces the risk of breaking down in harsh conditions.
- Winterizing the Snow Blower: Before storing it at the end of the season, properly winterizing your snow blower is important. This includes draining fuel, cleaning the machine, and storing it in a dry place to prevent rust and damage.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Operating a Snow Blower?
When operating a snow blower, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure efficiency and safety.
- Not Reading the Manual: Many users skip reading the owner’s manual, which contains essential information about the specific model, including safety precautions, maintenance tips, and operational guidelines.
- Ignoring Safety Gear: Failing to wear proper safety gear such as goggles, gloves, and non-slip footwear can lead to injuries, especially in slippery conditions or when handling the machine.
- Overloading the Snow Blower: Attempting to clear too much snow at once can strain the machine, leading to mechanical failures and inefficient snow removal, which can also increase the risk of injury.
- Using the Wrong Fuel: Using fuel that is not appropriate for your snow blower can cause engine problems; always ensure that you are using the recommended fuel type and that it is fresh.
- Neglecting Maintenance: Regular maintenance like checking the oil, cleaning the spark plug, and ensuring sharp blades is crucial to keep the snow blower running smoothly and efficiently.
- Incorrect Height Adjustment: Setting the snow blower’s height too low or too high can lead to ineffective snow clearing; it’s important to adjust it according to the snow depth for optimal performance.
- Not Clearing the Chute: Allowing snow to build up in the chute can lead to blockages, which not only slows down the operation but can also cause the machine to overheat and malfunction.
- Improper Post-Use Care: Failing to properly store the snow blower after use, such as leaving it exposed to the elements or neglecting to drain fuel, can lead to corrosion and damage.