Choosing the Right Snow Blower for Your Property

Written By Donya Goodwin

Winter weather can arrive fast, and having the right snow blower makes clearing your driveway, sidewalks, and property safer and much easier. Whether you're replacing an older machine or buying your first snow blower, understanding the different types available will help you choose the best model for your needs.

As an authorized Ariens® dealer, we offer a wide selection of snow blowers designed to handle everything from light snowfalls to deep, heavy snow and ice.

Understanding the Different Snow Blower Stages

Single-Stage Snow Blowers

Single-stage snow blowers use a rubber-tipped auger that contacts the ground to collect and discharge snow in one motion.

Best For:

  • Paved driveways and sidewalks

  • Light snowfalls up to 8 inches

  • Smaller residential properties

Not Recommended For:

  • Gravel driveways or uneven surfaces, as the auger can pick up rocks and debris.

Two-Stage Snow Blowers

A two-stage machine uses a steel auger to break up snow before feeding it into a high-speed impeller that throws the snow through the discharge chute.

Best For:

  • Snowfalls over 8 inches

  • Heavy, wet snow

  • Gravel driveways

  • Larger driveways and rural properties

Three-Stage Snow Blowers

Three-stage snow blowers include an accelerator that moves snow and ice through the machine faster than a traditional two-stage unit, making them ideal for the toughest winter conditions.

Best For:

  • Large properties

  • Packed snow and ice

  • End-of-driveway snow left by city plows

  • Frequent heavy snowfall

How to Choose the Right Snow Blower

Consider Your Property Size

The larger your driveway, the more important the clearing width becomes. Wider machines reduce the number of passes required and save time after every snowfall.

Think About Your Surface

Paved driveways work well with almost any model, while gravel driveways should be paired with a two-stage or three-stage machine that keeps the auger above the surface.

Match the Machine to Your Needs

Compact Models

  • Ideal for smaller homes

  • Easy to maneuver and store

  • Excellent for moderate snowfall

Deluxe & Platinum Models

  • Great for most homeowners

  • Increased throwing distance

  • More power for heavy snow and slush

Professional Models

  • Built for large properties and commercial use

  • Heavy-duty construction

  • Maximum power for demanding conditions

More Than Just Snow Blower Sales

Choosing the right machine is only part of the equation. Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your equipment and ensures it's ready when the next storm arrives.

Our experienced technicians provide:

If you prefer to perform your own repairs, we stock a large inventory of genuine replacement parts and accessories.

Visit One of Our Four Convenient Locations

Whether you're shopping for a new Ariens snow blower, need seasonal service, or are looking for replacement parts, our knowledgeable team is here to help. Visit any of our four convenient locations to speak with an expert, compare models, and find the equipment that's right for your property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a single-stage snow blower on a gravel driveway?

No. Single-stage machines are designed for paved surfaces. For gravel driveways, a two-stage or three-stage snow blower is recommended to prevent rocks and debris from being thrown.

What size snow blower do I need?

The best size depends on your driveway length, snowfall amounts, and surface type. Larger properties generally benefit from wider, more powerful two-stage or three-stage models.

How should I store my snow blower after winter?

Before storing your machine, add fuel stabilizer, run the engine to circulate the treated fuel, clean the machine thoroughly, and store it in a dry location. Performing seasonal maintenance before storage helps ensure it's ready for next winter.

Donya Goodwin