Are Snow Blowers Worth the Price?

Winter can be brutal, especially when it comes to heavy snowfall. Dealing with snow accumulation can be a tedious and physically demanding task, but owning a snow blower can make this chore much easier. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when deciding whether investing in a snow blower is worth it for you.

Factors to Consider

The decision to invest in a snow blower isn't straightforward. Several factors come into play, including your age, physical condition, and the amount of snowfall you typically experience. If you're in good health, have a small driveway, or live in an area with light snowfall, a snow blower might not be necessary. However, for those with larger driveways or significant snowfall, a snow blower can be a worthwhile investment.

Physical Condition and Health

Using a snow blower can significantly reduce the physical strain involved in shoveling. For individuals like myself, who are in my 70s, a snow blower can be a lifesaver. Manually shoveling heavy, wet snow can put a strain on your back, neck, and cardiovascular system. In the past few years, the snowfall has been less frequent and heavy, so I haven’t had to use my snow blower. However, in situations where there is a significant amount of snow, such as when I received more than a foot of snow overnight, the snow blower earned its keep.

Lightweight Snow Blowers

If you have a relatively small driveway or need to clear steps, there are lightweight machines that can serve as power shovels. These compact devices are great for smaller spaces and can significantly reduce the physical effort required to clear snow.

Location Matters

Your location plays a crucial role in whether a snow blower is a worthwhile investment. If you live in a place like Buffalo, NY, where heavy snowfall is common, a snow blower is almost essential. Conversely, if you live in Phoenix, AZ, with its arid climate and minimal snowfall, a snow blower may be an unnecessary expense.

Community Services and Convenience

Living in an area with significant snowfall can also affect your decision. If you are in a small neighborhood where your spouse or other residents are willing to clear driveways, you can use this as a service and bid for clearing others' driveways. This can offset the cost of a snow blower while also providing a service to your neighbors.

Investment Considerations

When considering the purchase of a snow blower, it's important to factor in the cost. Buying a brand-new snow blower can be expensive, but there are other options. If you want to save money, consider purchasing a used snow blower. These can be just as effective as new ones, especially if you expect to have significant snowfall each year. Additionally, if you want to step up to a model with more features, such as a plow or a blower on a tractor or truck, this can be a worthwhile investment for larger driveways or areas.

Conclusion

Whether a snow blower is worth the price ultimately depends on your specific circumstances. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall or have a significant amount of driveway and sidewalk to clear, a snow blower can be a valuable investment. If you live in a place with minimal snowfall or have access to community services, it may not be necessary.

For those looking to learn more about used snow blowers, I have written a review on the topic, which you can check out for additional insights.