Electric vs. Gas Snow Blowers
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Winter is coming, bringing blocked driveways, covered cars and slippery sidewalks. You need a new snow blower to fight back Jack Frost, but which type of unit should you get—electric or gas? Picking the right snow blower for your property can mean the difference between a winter wonderland and polar pain. Good thing Greenworks is here to help! In this guide, we'll explore the pros and cons of electric snow blowers vs. traditional gas units so you can buy with confidence.
Table of contents
Pros of an Electric Snow Blower Ease of Use Eco-Friendly Low Noise Low Maintenance Cons of an Electric Snow Blower vs. Gas Run Times Amount of Snow Single-Stage vs. Dual-Stage Snow Blowers Snow Blowers: Frequently Asked Questions Are Electric Snow Blowers Good in Heavy Snow? Are Electric Snow Blowers Worth It? How Long Do Electric Snow Blowers Last? Are Electric Snow Blowers Quieter Than Gas? Are Gas or Electric Snow Blowers Better?
Pros of an Electric Snow Blower vs. Gas
First up, let's break down the advantages of electric snow blowers:
Ease of Use
Battery-powered snow blowers are incredibly user-friendly. They're typically lighter and easier to handle than gas models, making them perfect for quick and efficient snow removal. There's no need to deal with heavy fuel tanks or complicated start-up procedures—just plug in or charge the battery and you're ready to go.
Eco-Friendly
One of the most significant advantages of electric snow blowers is their minimal environmental impact. Unlike gas-powered models, electric snow blowers produce zero emissions and reduce your carbon footprint. If you're an environmentally conscious homeowner, electric outdoor power equipment is a must-have.
Low Noise
Electric snow blowers operate much quieter than gas models, making them a better option for those living in a neighborhood where noise might be an issue. Need to clear your driveway early in the morning before work without disturbing the neighbors? Electric is your best bet.
Low Maintenance
The mechanically challenged rejoice! Electric snow blowers require minimal upkeep—no need for oil changes, spark plug replacements or fuel stabilizers. Simply keep the battery charged and the blower clean, and it will be ready to use whenever you need it.
Cons of an Electric Snow Blower vs. Gas
While electric snow blowers have many benefits, they also have some drawbacks. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
Run Times
Though electric snow blower batteries pack ample power, they sometimes have limited runtimes. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, you may need a second battery on hand to finish the job without interruptions. Battery technology is improving to increase ranges, but it's still something to consider before making a big purchase.
Amount of Snow
Electric snow blowers can be less powerful than their gas counterparts. While great for light to moderate snowfalls, they might struggle with very heavy or wet snow. For most homeowners, this shouldn't be a problem, but if you live in areas with frequent snow storms, make sure your electric unit can handle the load before you buy.
Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage Snow Blowers
Quick note: you should know the difference between a single-stage and two-stage snow blower to make a more informed decision.
Single-stage snow blowers are lighter and best suited for light to moderate snowfalls. They use an auger to both scoop and discharge the snow.
Two-stage blowers have an additional impeller, which helps throw the snow further and handles heavier snow more effectively.
Snow Blowers: Frequently Asked Questions
Are electric snow blowers good in heavy snow?
Electric snow blowers have no problem handling light to moderate snowfalls (anything less than a foot) but may struggle to completely clear wet and deep snow.
Are electric snow blowers worth it?
Yes! Electric snow blowers are an excellent investment for their convenience, low maintenance, and environmental benefits. They're perfect for areas with moderate snowfall and those who prefer easy-to-use, quiet operation.
How long do electric snow blowers last?
Mileage may vary, but electric (and gas) snow blowers should last around ten years with proper care and maintenance. The key difference is that electric snow blowers require much less effort to maintain.
Are electric snow blowers quieter than gas?
Yes! Electric snow blowers are significantly quieter than gas models, making them an excellent choice for residential areas.
Are Gas or Electric Snow Blowers Better?
As you've probably already guessed, the answer depends on your specific needs! Electric snow blowers offer ease of use, low maintenance and eco-friendliness, making them ideal for most homeowners. However, the upper ranges of gas snow blowers can be more powerful and better suited for areas with frequent, heavy snowfall. For more guidance on choosing the right snow blower, visit our in-depth snow blower buying guide.
Written by The Green Team, a creative arm within Greenworks Tools.
Our team of writers, designers and content creators bring a breadth of experience and a touch of fun to all things tools. With an assist from the Greenworks product teams and technology experts, we’re here to provide helpful and engaging content to make your yard (and life!) beautiful.
