A snowplow is an indispensable unit in winter, which will be appreciated by the owners of private houses, as well as those who have large industrial farms outside the city. Residents of cities are less likely to suffer from the problem of snow-covered roads, as snow-removal equipment works on them. For those who live outside the city, a snow-picker will be useful: depending on the parameters, he will clean both small and large areas, make passage to the garage and paths on the territory.
Content
Types of snow removal equipment
Snowplow - a unit designed for automatic snow removal in different territories. This device sweeps and collects snow at a collection point. The task of the snow blower is to free a person from hard physical labor and save time that could be spent on snow removal.
Snowplows can be classified according to different criteria.
Depending on the type of engine, distinguish:
- electric;
- gasoline.
Electrics are easy to operate and convenient for use in the private sector.
Petrol units for snow removal have high power and are able to break even packed snow.
Depending on how the snow is harvested, single- and two-stage snowblowers are distinguished. The first type uses a screw for crushing, collecting and throwing snow. This part is a rod with a solid helical surface.
Two-stage snow clearing devices have a more complex design. In addition to the screw, they have a rotor. The first stage drives the auger, which crushes and rakes the snow, and the second makes this work more productive, increasing the force of snow emission.
Depending on the control method, such types as self-propelled and non-self-propelled are distinguished.
Self-propelled devices, in turn, are wheeled and tracked. Such machines move independently, capable of cleaning large areas and discarding even packed deep layers of snow.
Non-self-propelled snow removal equipment is suitable for small areas. Such a machine is convenient to use for giving during drifts. They have a small capacity, but at the same time they are characterized by maneuverability and economy.
Choosing a model of a snow removal device should be guided by the area on which snow removal is planned.
What to choose: gasoline or electric unit?
Having decided to purchase a snow blower, a potential buyer is faced with the question: which unit is better to choose - gasoline or electric?
The final decision depends on how much power is required. Electric snow blowers are non-self-propelled and are more suitable for a private house.
Gasoline snow blowers are more expensive to maintain, but they are more powerful: they can even cope with dense snowy masses.
The electric unit is cheaper than gasoline, has a compact size, not too noisy. It should be borne in mind that such a snowplow is not too powerful, so it can not cope with large snowdrifts.
The gasoline apparatus has high power indicators, therefore it even copes with strong snow drifts. With their help, you can discard even snow that fell 2 weeks ago.
Such units can be used in places where it is not possible to connect to the mains.
Gasoline snow blowers are more expensive because they require fuel, and also require service.
Main settings
You need to choose a machine for snow removal according to the parameters of the device. The main criteria for such a device are:
- type of movement. As already mentioned, snow blowers can be self-propelled and non-self-propelled. The first variety moves independently and does not require operator intervention. Such models are expensive, but they are able to remove snow of any density. Non-self-propelled snowblowers are ideal for small areas;
- engine power of the unit. This indicator determines the capabilities of the snow blower. Electric cars usually have a power in the range of 1.5-2 kW and are designed for cleaning small areas (100-200 m2) Gasoline units have a power of 3.5 to 15 hp. (Horse power). Such machines need to be purchased, if necessary, to clean large areas - up to 50,000 m2;
- cross-country ability and maneuverability. Snow machines can be wheel-driven or tracked. The first are more maneuverable and fast, but the tracked units are more powerful and passable. In addition, caterpillar snow blowers can easily work on uneven surfaces and overcome the curbs of garden paths and grounds;
- bucket grip width. This parameter directly depends on the power of the unit and can vary from 45 to 105 cm.
Snowplows are made by well-known manufacturers of household appliances and equipment, as well as little-known ones. When choosing, you can be tempted by low prices from Chinese manufacturers or prefer a reliable unit that will last for many years.
Principle of operation
When choosing a snowplow for a country house, you should familiarize yourself with the principle of its operation.
Self-propelled devices
Self-propelled snowblowers are usually equipped with a four-stroke engine, which is characterized by significant power and has a wide grip range.
All modern models are equipped with protection against working in the wrong conditions. When the unit encounters major obstacles, the machine stops working, which prevents the gearbox from breaking.
Self-propelled snowblowers usually have a wheel drive.
Non-self-propelled device
This type of snowplow is driven by a person: it must be pushed in front of you. They are suitable for cleaning recently fallen snow, which has not yet had time to pack.
The screw of a self-propelled unit is usually made of dense rubber, not able to break a strong layer.
The principle of the snow blower for the local area is as follows:
- gear selection is made. It all depends on the density of snow masses. Loose snow is removed in medium gear, heavy snow in low gear;
- After turning on the unit, a regulator is turned on, which throws out the collected snow mass. It controls the ejection range.
Speed and quality of work depend on the transmission of the unit. The simplest option used in low-cost models is a single-speed transmission. Such a system is not very convenient, since in this case it is difficult to adjust the push force to the density of the snow mass.
Gear mechanical transmission of torque is the most popular option. It implies the presence of several modes with which you can quickly and efficiently deal with snow masses of different densities.
How to choose a snowplow
When choosing the best snow blower for yourself, you should pay attention to such criteria:
- manufacturer of equipment. The most popular snow removal equipment brands are companies such as Honda, Husqvarna, Champion. They produce premium products. These are professional reliable devices that can last for a long time. More budget options are offered by manufacturers such as Wolf Garten and Craftsman. The prices of snowplows depend on the functionality and equipment;
- cost. Before buying, it is important to calculate the budget. The price range for such equipment is significant - from 20,000 to 500,000 rubles.You should soberly assess the situation and not overpay for power if the unit is needed to clean a small area near the house or cottage;
- management principle. Cheap snow blowers and appliances belonging to the economy class are equipped with either a handle or a bracket. With their help, the operator carries out the movement of the device;
- power. This is the most important criterion. For territories with an area of up to 100 m2 it is better to choose an electric device that is usually not characterized by high power ratings. Powerful snow cleaners with a gasoline engine will come in handy if necessary to clean areas of a large area;
- the weight. If you choose a non-self-propelled unit, it is important to pay attention to weight. Since the operator will have to push the machine independently, its weight should not be too large - about 30-40 kg. This technique is quite maneuverable and does not create special difficulties in management;
- depth of snow that the machine can handle. Electric snow blowers cope with a snow layer 10 cm high. Single-stage snowblowers overcome snowdrifts of 15 cm, two-stage - 45 cm, three-stage - 60 cm;
- cleaning system. If the technique is needed to clean the paths in the country and the garden, screw organisms should be preferred. If snow needs to be removed from territories with a large area, then a snowplow with a screw-rotor clearing mechanism will be required;
- wheel locking system. It makes controlling the unit as easy as possible: even a child can control a snow blower that is equipped with such a system;
- type of drive. Gasoline engines are more powerful, so snow blowers with such a drive are suitable for cleaning large areas. Electric machines have less power, because they are used in small areas;
- grip height. The working capture band of such devices can be different - from 45 to 115 cm. The larger the bucket, the more powerful the snow blower.
Before purchasing a snow blower, it is recommended that you review the best manufacturers and their products.
Rating
This section of the article provides a rating of the most popular snow blower models.
MasterYard ML 7522B
- Snow Blower Type: Self-propelled Wheel
- Engine type: gasoline
- Power, l c .: 6.5
- Engine displacement, cube cm: 163
- Range of emission, m: 12
- Weight, kg: 78
- Transmission: step
- the presence of a tread on wheels;
- the ability to clean icy snow;
- wide grip;
- ease of use and maintenance.
- inconvenience in transportation;
- high price;
- problematic storage.
The indicated model of a snow blower is well suited for snow removal from a summer cottage and the territory of a private house. Starts up easily, copes well with a thick layer of snow.
SIBRTEH ESB-2000
- Snow Blower Type: Non-Self-Propelled
- Engine type: electric
- Power (kW): 2
- Engine displacement, cube cm: 163
- Range of emission, m: 9
- Weight, kg: 15
- Transmission: step
- maneuverability;
- lack of loud noise during operation;
- compact size;
- value for money.
- short cord;
- difficulty in throwing snow over the fence.
SIBRTEH ESB-2000 is a compact model of a snow blower, which is the best option combining quality and reasonable price. He can overcome snowdrifts half a meter high, but this happens with difficulties. In general, the device is easy to operate and reliable.
Huter SGC 8100C
- Snow Blower Type: Self-propelled Tracked
- Engine type: gasoline
- Horsepower : eleven
- Engine displacement, l: 6,5
- Range of emission, m: 15
- Weight, kg: 115
- Transmission: step
- availability of overload protection;
- the presence of an electric starter;
- number of gears - 6 forward and 2 back;
- the presence of the function of heating the handles;
- value for money.
- not found
This model of the snow blower is characterized by high power, it starts without problems even in cold weather. The Huter SGC 8100C has a powerful halogen headlight. With proper use, the device can last a long time.
Daewoo Power Products DAST 2600E
- Snow Blower Type: Non-Self-Propelled
- Engine type: electric
- Power (kW): 2.6
- Range of emission, m: from 1 to 10
- Weight, kg: 15,5
- Transmission: step
- high-quality plastic;
- rubberized auger;
- ease of management;
- not too much mass, which makes the unit maneuverable;
- simple change in the angle of ejection;
- the presence of a headlamp;
- the ability to control the unit with one hand;
- build quality.
- the ability to clean only recently fallen snow;
- high-quality work is possible only on perfectly smooth surfaces;
- the possibility of light damage to the case in a collision with stones or obstacles;
- noise during operation;
- inconvenience of handles (suitable only for people of short stature, in other cases you have to bend over);
- overestimated snow discharge range (actual - up to 5-6 m).
This model has collected conflicting reviews: someone considers it a good option, and someone is disappointed due to minor functionality and a quick breakdown. Those who used this unit recommend choosing something more powerful.
AL-KO SnowLine 55E
- Snow Blower Type: Non-Self-Propelled
- Engine type: gasoline
- Engine displacement, l: 3
- Range of emission, m: 10
- Weight, kg: 40
- Transmission: step
- quickly starts in frosts;
- well cleans paths up to asphalt;
- convenience in storage;
- good design;
- the presence of an electric starter;
- good throwing distance of snow masses;
- compactness;
- the ability to remove snow covered with ice crust;
- build quality.
- low power that does not match the declared characteristics;
- high price;
- frequent “chewing” of the belt, which requires repair and additional investments.
This model of the snow blower also caused mixed reviews. Most users believe that for such a cost you can choose a more functional and reliable device, besides self-propelled.
Snow blowers allow you to quickly clear the area of snowdrifts. Their power may be different. It depends on this indicator how effectively the snow blower will cope with snow drifts in a certain area.
