Top 13+ snow blowing tips that make snow removal quick and easy

Throw Snow As Far As You Can

Avoid throwing snow only partway off the driveway and then throwing it a second time. That just creates a heavier load for the blower. There are four ways to get the maximum throw: Take smaller bites of snow, run the blower at full rpm but at a slower ground speed, adjust the chute diverter to its full raised position and blow with the wind.

Take Smaller Bites to Avoid Clogs

It's tempting to crank up the speed and plow right through it. That's the single best way to clog your machine and wear out (or break) the drive belts. And when you consider how long it takes to constantly stop and unclog the chute, ramming at full speed doesn't actually save any time. Worse yet, improperly clearing a clogged chute is dangerous, and the most common cause of snow blower?related injuries.

Instead of making a full-width pass through the snow, manufacturers recommend taking smaller bites; about one-third to one-half the width of the machine. It's faster than slogging through a full path of heavy snow and it's easier on the machine. Another reason it's a better snow-blowing technique is that it allows the machine to throw the snow farther.

Start With Fresh Fuel

Stale gas is the No. 1 cause of hard starting. So don't use what's left in the lawn mower can. It's better to dump that summer blend into your car's tank, then refill the can with winter blend, which is more volatile and provides better starting.

Switch to Synthetic Oil for Easier Starting

Small engines typically have to reach at least 400 rpm before they'll fire up. But traditional motor oil thickens when cold, making it much harder to reach that 400-rpm threshold. Synthetic oil allows the engine to spin faster when you yank the cord, so it starts with fewer pulls. So when you change the oil in your snowblower next, switch to synthetic.

Don't Forget Pre-Season Maintenance

Get your snow blower ready for action by installing a new spark plug, changing the oil and checking the condition of the belts. Replace the belts if you see cracks, fraying or glazing or notice that chunks are missing. Replacing the spark plug? Consider an iridium spark plug.

Next, sand any rusted areas and repaint. Once the paint cures, apply a high-quality polymeric car wax to all painted surfaces. The wax will shed the snow and water and protect the paint. And, wax the inside of the chute to help prevent clogs.

Then consult your owner's manual to find the lubrication points and the recommended lube. If the type of lube isn't listed, here's some general guidance: Use motor oil on metal linkage joints, gears and cables, but dry PTFE lube on plastic parts (knobs, gears and chute). Spray the auger, second-stage impeller and chute with silicone spray to prevent snow from sticking.