8 Best Electric Snow Blowers for Heavy Snow in 2023
If you live somewhere where it gets really cold and snowy, you would know the struggle of blowing it out. Here, be it basic commercial driveway projects or dealing with areas around your house, nothing better than an electric snow blower can serve you well. People usually prefer these alternatives, primarily because they have relatively high power, impeller fans, adjustable auger, and variable speed that help you in getting the perfect blend of convenience, stability, efficiency, and safety.

Before I even started writing up a list of the best electric snow blowers for heavy snow guides, I figured it would be more helpful for you if it were proven beforehand. So, I decided to conduct a little experiment of my own. I bought ten different electric snow blowers and gave each to a willing experimenter who agreed to use it straight for a week. After the completion of the allotted time period, I took their reviews. From what I learned that day, it can be concluded that the snow blowers that had a strong lithium-ion battery, powerful motor, and integrated front light were the top favorites. (Which is the #1 in this list 😉 )
Wondering what makes the best electric snow blowers? How to use electric blowers? Are electric snow blowers good for rough terrains and heavy snow? Well, while you are buying, it is important to know everything from auger construction to clearance capacity, visibility, direction, and control. To save your day, I have included some best electric snow blowers for heavy snow along with all the necessary information that can help you in making an informed decision. So, dive right in for more.
I am starting my list of the best electric snow blowers for heavy snow with this massively popular Toro 38381. I have been using it for gravel driveways and would say it is the most stable and controlled alternative you can find out there. Overall, the blower was easy to handle, however, not suited for beginners.
The first thing I would like to appreciate about this model is its steel structure. Throughout, I found it sturdy and stable, needless to say, and didn’t feel the impact of vibrations. Here, I was also able to monitor the process, even in dim lighting, all thanks to the two bright LED lights included in the model.
Similarly, when it comes to performance, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the chute is designed in a way that the snow is thrown smoothly. This is because of its powerful motor setup and fast speed. I would also say that, despite it being fast, I faced no issues with either the accuracy or stability of the process.
In the end, speaking of the clearing capacity, it is designed for both residential and basic commercial tasks. I have used this for gravel and concrete driveways and would say it can cut the snow in just one pass. The blades are also worth the appreciation, given that they are sharp and don’t get sucked in the snow.
Wrapping up, after using this snow blower for the longest time, I would say it is great for residential as well as commercial projects. It is absolutely worth mentioning that the chute provides you with high-speed and accurate cuts. Here, the addition of LED lights and a powerful motor makes it worth the money.
If you are a budget enthusiast yet want something that is easy to handle, I would recommend you go for this Ion 18SB. It is massively popular for its high power range and adjustable chute, making it easy and accurate. Here, it is equally worth mentioning that this blower has no-load speed and an all-steel frame.
The first thing to note about this model is its steel structure which is quite durable. Throughout the process, I was able to handle it well and kept it low to the ground, which is safe. In addition, the manufacturers have added LED lights that provide you with high visibility during the night time, making it fairly safe.
Here, the addition of the adjustable chute makes it a suitable alternative. So, with this function, you can easily set the direction up to 160 degrees in order to achieve control and stability. All in all, this is accompanied by a 25 ft throw distance that saves you from slipping on the floor, keeping you safe.
Lastly, for performance, the manufacturers have added a powerful 15-amp motor that is sufficient enough to help you with accurate cuts. Its high clearing capacity (up to 22 inches) makes it great for commercial jobs. Hence, you can use this for gravel driveways, with minimal chances of damage to the surface.
In essence, this Snow Joe SJ627E is undoubtedly the best electric snow blower for heavy snow, all thanks to its high-speed and comprehensive design. It is equipped with variable speed and an adjustable chute that serve you well. I have been using it for the longest time and still find it safe and easy for the most part.
Here comes yet another quality alternative for dealing with heavy snow, all thanks to its fairly decent clearance capacity and light construction. It works on regulated power, so you don’t have to worry about its safety. The fact that it has folding handles with a rubber grip makes it easy to store and handle.
To start with, this model is equipped with LED lights that help you with improved visibility. The chute is all-steel and is lubricated enough to help you with durability and a smooth throwing process. Here, it also feels light and has a large throwing distance, so you don’t have to worry about maintaining safety.
Moreover, the manufacturers have added an adjustable auger, so you can easily adjust the direction up to 180 degrees. This helps you in changing the movement of the blower, with absolute control. Hence, this function assists you remarkably on deep driveways and complicated twists or turns throughout.
Finally, speaking of its clearance capacity, this one can go down to 10 inches and 20 inches wide, so you can use it for quite deep driveways. The blade is also sharp enough to cut heavy snow in one pass. Similarly, I would say after using it on hard and rough surfaces, the results are quite accurate.
In essence, this Snapper snow blower is great to deal with heavy snow, owing to its well-organized design. It has a small design that is equipped with folding hands and LED lights that keeps the process safe and convenient. Likewise, it has the ability to provide you with accurate results on hard terrains.
If you find dealing with heavy snow quite challenging and need a quality alternative, this one might do justice to the job. It is best known for its adjustable chute that provides you with accuracy and precision. Moreover, the fact that it has a serviceable variable 4-speed drive system makes it worth the money.
Firstly, although the machine is quite small and light, it remains sturdy and can withstand vibrations well. Starting off, this model comes with LED lights, so you don’t have visibility of the process, even in dim lighting. The steel auger further makes it easy for you to handle, however, maintain your distance.
In addition, another highlight of this model is its 4-speed drive system. This function allows you to adjust the speed as per the suitability of the terrain. So, even on gravel driveways, the blade is serviceable and can get through the snow in one go. Here, the blade is sharp and lubricated enough to keep it accurate.
At the end, when it comes to performance, this blower comes with an adjustable chute that allows you to set it up to 180 degrees. So, you can move it in any direction, with control over the process. Overall, I have used this on different terrains and would say it is undoubtedly the safest option you can find.
In conclusion, this Snow Joe Ion 8024 is a great choice for anyone who is looking for something safe and accurate to throw heavy snow. It is designed for a number of terrains, all thanks to its adjustable chute and variable speed settings. Likewise, the LED lights and rubber chute grip make it of great value.
Are you in search of a large snow blower for basic commercial jobs? Well, I would advise you to consider this Ego Power+ blower. This is because it provides you with a perfect combination of convenience, stability, and accuracy. All in all, its long running time and power range add to its value.
Starting off, this single-stage blower has steel construction, so you won’t find issues with stability or durability. The manufacturers have also added LED lights, providing you with improved visibility. Here, my favorite thing in this model is its folding handles with a rubber grip that doesn’t take much space to store it.
Likewise, another thing to appreciate about this blower is its clearance capacity. Hence, you can easily go down to 13 inches and wide to 21 inches, making it suitable for gravel driveways. It is further accompanied by a 40 ft throwing angle, so you don’t have to worry about keeping the process safe.
Lastly, for performance, the highlight of this model is its variable speed which is powered by an organized motor setup. So, based on the terrain you are working with and your skill set, speed can be adjusted. Hence, even while using it at high speed, I was able to cut through heavy snow with just one pass.
Final thoughts, this Ego Power+ snow blower is designed for anyone who is limited by the budget yet does not want to compromise on performance. It is best known for its variable speed setting and the adjustable chute that facilitates you well. All in all, the results are incredibly precise and accurate.
Coming from Snow Jow, this SB18 from the Ion series is yet another quality alternative for residential and basic commercial jobs. This is because the highlight of this model is its adjustable chute and a large throw distance that serve you well. Similarly, the results were absolutely precise and accurate, with heavy snow.
To begin with, it is equipped with LED lights that provide you with suitable visibility, even at night time. It is further accompanied by a steel structure, which is quite sturdy and withstands vibrations well. Overall, it remains stable and in your control which is always a plus as dealing with heavy snow can be frustrating.
Likewise, when it comes to performance, this one is equipped with a 1200 W motor that has a clearance capacity of 14 tons per charge. This blade can go 18-inch width and 10-inch depth in a single pass which is quite considerable. I would also appreciate the fact that the blade goes smoothly.
Lastly, another thing that gives it an edge over others is its rubber-grip steel auger. This feature is adjustable up to 160 degrees, so you can easily move it in different directions, with absolute control. Finally, if you are using this remotely with a battery, a single charge can easily last you for 40 minutes.
Final thoughts, this Snow Joe SB18 from the Ion series is undoubtedly a suitable alternative for basic commercial tasks, with absolute control and stability. It comes with an ergonomic handle and an adjustable auger that serve you well. Similarly, the speed range and large throw distance add to its value.
If you are in search of a versatile snow blower that has the ability to facilitate commercial as well as residential jobs, this is it. The highlight of this model is its clearing depth and throw distance, which makes it safe and convenient. Here, it is equally worth mentioning that this machine operated with regulated power.
To start with, this model has an all-steel structure that is highly durable. Here, the addition of the quick-release lever and rubber grip further makes it fairly easy for you to use. Similarly, I absolutely loved the addition of the LED lights as they offer visibility in order to do the job at night time or with dim lighting.
Moreover, this one is powered by regulated voltage, preventing overheating issues. The motor setup also makes sure the process remains fast and in your control. Here, the addition of the adjustable chute further allows you to set the preferred direction, which makes it great for gravel as well as concrete driveways.
Finally, speaking of the clearance capacity, this model can easily go down to 12 inches with 21 inches in width. So, this works remarkably well for heavy snow. Here, this model also has a throw distance of 40 ft, so you can use this from farther away, preventing potential accidents, so you are safe for the most part.
In conclusion, this Ego Power+ is known for its ability to be used on gravel as well as concrete driveways, with absolute control and safety. The fact that it has a quick-release lever and regulated voltage makes it quite convenient. Here, its high clearance capacity and large throw distance add to its versatility.
Last but not least on my list of the best electric snow blowers for heavy snow is this Snow Joe ION-21SB. This is because it has an adjustable auger placement and a high power range that helps you with basic commercial projects. Here, my favorite thing about this blower is its ergonomic and simple design.
The first thing I would like to appreciate about this model is its LED lights. So, with the help of these lights, I was able to do jobs even at night time. It also feels quite sturdy which helped me in keeping it in one position throughout. Despite being firm, I was able to control the motion of this machine for the most part.
Similarly, speaking of performance, this one comes with a powerful motor, which is accompanied by a high speed. So, as a professional, I was able to do the job in less than usual time, and with accuracy. All in all, the manufacturers claim that it can give up 16 tons per charge, which is quite true to an extent.
In the end, when it comes to the chute, this snow blower is equipped with a high-rise chute that provides you with fast and accurate operations. Here, the addition of the EcoSHaro technology makes sure the blade can pass through the snow with absolute precision. So, I didn’t find my blade sucked in the snow.
Wrapping up, I have used this Snow Joe Ion21SB and would say it is undoubtedly the most accurate and durable blower you can find out there. It comes with EcoSharp Technology and a high-speed chute that served me well. All in all, I found this blower quite quick and accurate for basic commercial jobs.
What to Look for While Buying the Best Electric Snow Blower for Heavy Snow: All You Need to Know
Here are some things you need to look into while buying the right type of snow blower to be used for heavy snow;
Clearing Capacity: Width and Depth
Similarly, when it comes to the clearing capacity of a snow blower, you will have to consider some things like the terrain or roads you are using these machines on. Some electric blowers are more powerful and more expensive than others, making it useless to invest significantly when your needs are small. Hence, I would advise you to check the clearing width and depth of the blower and estimate its efficiency for the driveway to get appropriate outcomes.
Hence, speaking of the single-stage blowers, they are known for their ability to get snow up to 22 inches wide, which works great for areas around homes and well-constructed concrete driveways. On the contrary, two-stage blowers have the capacity to go between 20- and 35-inches width and can work for residential as well as small and basic commercial jobs, like clearing out gravel driveways. So, just make sure the clearing capacity is compatible with your needs.
Speed Options
Speed is another element that can influence the performance and efficiency of snow blowers. Considering the fact that these alternatives are heavy and difficult to use, you most probably would be looking for a self-propelled design. Now, unlike gas-powered blowers, these battery-powered models come with a digital drive setup that is self-propelled.
Another advantage of these blowers is that the majority of these models have variable speed ranges. So, you are provided with the ability to change the speed based on the thickness and depth of the snow, making it easy as well as functional. All you need to do is to change the auger rotation setting, based on the intensity of snowfall and its depth.
Chute Control
In addition, you also need to look into the chute control. In simple words, the chute is a hollow pipe that goes up to the back of the intake of the blower, providing the snow with a route to get out of the machine. The majority of electric blowers have a manual crank, also known as a lever, designed to allow users to change the direction and angle of the snow blower, while they are using it to throw the snow. So, they have quite considerable control over the process.
Some modern alternatives also come with an auto-rotating chute that is used by one-click operations. All you need to do is turn the button that is placed near the handle, so while working with this function, you also don’t have to stop the machine. Hence, these have better control over the process. So, if your budget allows, you are absolutely good to go with these auto chutes.
Terrain Type; Wheeled or Tracked
While choosing the right snow blower, you also have to consider which one works better for your terrain requirements, wheels, or tracks. Well, in simple words, wheeled blowers have two large rear wheels on a machine while the other one comes with similar construction, but on a tank. So, here are some things that can help you in making the right choice;
- Well, for the most part, tracked blowers are known to have better traction and stability, with a few chances of slipping it over steep slopes while you are making your way backward. These alternatives work with only two-stage models as the other one doesn’t have enough power. They can also be used on gravel driveways as they leave a thin layer of snow, preventing any damage.
- On the contrary, wheeled blowers are traditional models that work with single-stage blowers. These have large wheels that penetrate deep into the snow, hence, there is not much scope for speed and control in these models. To overcome this, these models come with turn-on-dime technology that has better maneuverability and speed, yet you are not absolutely good with control.
Anything Else?
Once you are done having all these basic functions in your electric snow blower models, it is time to go advanced. This is specifically significant if you are not restrained by your budget. So, here are some things you need to take into consideration before buying the best electric snow blower for heavy snow;
- First of all, I would advise you to go for heated handles as they keep you warm and cozy while you are out in cold conditions. So, given that your fingers are warm, there are fewer chances of you getting frostbite, making it safe and easy to be used in extreme conditions.
- Similarly, drift cutters are great at helping you with accurate and deep cuts. These cutters go deep into the auger and go out of the machine quickly.
- Here, having headlights can also help you with better visibility at night, when there is no proper light.
- Finally, I would recommend you go for the automatic shut-down function as they immediately stop the machine when you release the handle, for proper safety.
In the end, I hope you soon will find the right snow blower, for your individual requirements.
Single-Stage Vs. Two-Stage Snow Blowers: Which is Better?
Another thing you should have an idea about is the type of snow blower, whether it is single or double-staged. Similarly, you can also find three-stage snow blowers but they are primarily powered by gas and are used for commercial applications. So, here are some things about its types that can help you in making an informed decision;
Single-Stage Snow Blowers are primarily designed to facilitate residential hobs for the most part. These alternatives come with a horizontal auger that rotates after instant intervals and scoops out the snow. Most commonly, they have the capacity to go between 15 and 25 ft through the working chute. The only downside to these blowers is that they cannot be used for gravel roads, as the blades are quite low, so there is a chance of getting rocks with the snow.
Two-Stage Snow Blowers are similar to the previous one as they are also used for residential jobs. These alternatives come with an auger that is used to scoop and throw the snow, which is also accompanied by an impeller fan that has a high clearing capacity. So, the advantage of using these blowers is that you can manage large and heavy snow on driveways, up to 35 ft. These can also be used for gravel driveways without any damage.
Benefits of Using Electric Snow Blowers
Most commonly, across the board, electric blowers are preferred by users, primarily because they have more power and high-speed range to facilitate a variety of jobs. I have been using these blowers for quite some time and would say they are absolutely the best I have found on the market. Here are some benefits of using these electric snow blowers, especially for heavy snow;
- These are Effective
The first and foremost reason why electric snow blowers are massively popular among people is that they are effective. These alternatives are operated by considerably powerful motor sources that provide you with speed and efficiency, specifically while you are dealing with heavy snow. Not only can it get accurate and deep cuts in the snow, these models also have low running costs as you just have to pay for overall cutting. Finally, just make sure you have a regulated voltage and amperage value.
- You will Find Them Flexible
I usually prefer electric blowers, because they offer a high level of flexibility in comparison with other counterparts. This is because these machines have a variety of speed and control options, so you can easily choose suitable settings for a smooth process. So, while dealing with heavy snow, the fact that you have numerous options makes it a flexible alternative. After using them for quite some time, I would like to appreciate the fact that they feel light and convenient, even for beginners.
- These Alternatives Provide Users with Independence
Similarly, another edge electric snow blowers have over other competitors is the fact that it provides users with independence. This is because these alternatives have rotating augers with a different set of features, such as variable speed or turn-on-dime technology. Hence, you don’t have to worry about maneuverability and control of the machine for the most part. I have been using these blowers for residential as well as small commercial projects and the results are absolutely worth the investment.
- These are Simple to Use
Similarly, it is equally worth mentioning that electric blowers are absolutely easy to use. These models come with different speeds, sizes, and shapes, so based on your skill set and the terrain’s requirement, you can easily choose the one that is easy for you to operate. All in all, they have tons of useless advanced functions that are used to clear away the heavy snow. So, while you are investing such a high amount on a machine, it must be simple for you to use, and fortunately, electric blowers are all about it.
- You can Monitor the Process over Time
Well, while using snow blowers all my life, I would say the only problem I faced for the longest time was that it doesn’t have proper visibility. And after finding these electric blowers, I would say the process has been much easier, primarily because these alternatives have LED lights that help you with better visibility, even in dim conditions, such as at night. This specifically comes in handy when you are in complicated areas like gravel driveways and rocky terrains.
Pro Tips for Dealing with Heavy Snow
Well, there is no doubt that dealing with snow can be a bit challenging and frustrating, specifically when you don’t know the inside hacks. However, you need not worry as there are some tricks many professionals might give you, so that you have accurate and clean cuts, with absolutely no mess and chaos at all. To save your day, I have included these tips and tricks that can help you along the way;
- While you are using these alternatives, make sure to keep the machine as close to you as possible. This is because it will prevent you from overreacting or putting extra strain on your body. Hence, this can help you in saving yourself from a lot of potential injuries and muscle aches in the longer run.
- Similarly, I would advise you to always keep the blades at least ½ inches from the ground. This is because it will prevent the blower blades from damaging the surface, specifically when you are working with gravel driveways.
- If you are working long hours, it is absolutely important that you take breaks after every 40-45 minutes. This is because it can prevent you and the machine from exhaustion, even from the start. Getting this brake can also help you in cooling down the machine, preventing overheating and temperature-irregulating issues.
- It is extremely important to keep the blades of the blower always lubricated, so they are sharp enough to cut the snow, without getting sucked in between otherwise, it can lead to potential accidents and injuries.
- While you are at your job, I would advise you to eat at least 3 to 4 hours before. This is because it can prevent you from morning sickness or nausea.
- Snow throwing can be really challenging and difficult, specifically while you are not in perfect health. So, if you are feeling dizzy or nauseous while working, it is ideal that you immediately stop and do not proceed. This can save you from potential accidents and you can always proceed, while you are in good spirits and in a condition to complete the task.
- Last but not least, I would recommend you always push the snow blower with the legs, and not with the back as it is heavy and can provide you with backache and potential injuries.
Finally, I hope that, by following these tips and tricks, you will find the entire snow-throwing process convenient and somewhat simple.
All You Need to Know About the Electric Snow Blowers and their Usage for Heavy Snow
Well, there is so much to uncover when it comes to electric snow blowers. Many might wonder whether they are safe to be used casually. Can you unclog the auger by yourself? Do they get dirty easily? Why is throw distance important with snow blowers? Well, to save your day, I have answered all these commonly asked questions, so you can make an informed opinion.
Why is Throw Distance Important While Working with Snow Blowers?
Well, when it comes to snow blowers, the key rule is that you need a larger throw distance to make it functional for heavy snow. This is because having a large distance can keep the blade further from the snow, so it doesn’t get damaged or dirty and you don’t have to spend all your time maintaining the blade in good condition.
Similarly, another thing is flooding risks. When you are working with snow blowers, it is inevitable that the snow will melt and it will be dangerous for you to walk on the water, making it unavoidable to prevent injuries. Hence, a larger throw distance prevents you from going so close to the snow that it is dangerous.
What Do I Do with a Clogged Auger?
I have been using electric snow blowers for quite some time and would say that it is absolutely unavoidable to get a clogged auger. Even after doing everything, I found it challenging to prevent clogging. The most effective way I have found is to use plastic scrapers as they are designed to go into the auger to get the snow out of it. However, if you do not have this feature, you can also use a narrow broomstick to unclog the auger, to maintain overall safety and efficiency.
How to Prevent the Snow Blower Auger from Getting Clogged?
Well, there are a number of ways in which you can save the auger from getting clogged and make your blade functional and sharp enough to cut through heavy snow. For this purpose, I would recommend you paint (preferably a graphite-based formula) the blade, so that it does not corrode. It is equally important to lubricate the blade after every use to make sure the metal remains smooth, and sharp, and does not get sucked in the snow.
Are Snow Blowers Safe to be Used for Heavy Snow?
Well, when they were initially introduced, the snow blowers had a really bad reputation and were considered dangerous. This is because cutting heavy snow is challenging and needs safe equipment that can help you with a secure process. And given the fact that many of the first developed blowers exploded made them dangerous to be used casually.
However, the good thing is that this technology has come a long way and has become safe for the most part. This is because contemporary models have come up with different ways to provide you with control, such as one-button variable speed and turn-on-dime technology. Hence, now, these models are designed as per market standards, providing you with safety and security.
Are Electric Snow Blowers Efficient and Effective?
Yes, electric snow blowers are undoubtedly the most efficient alternatives you can find out there. This is because these alternatives come with different speed ranges and motor setups, so based on the terrain’s requirement, you can easily use it as per your desired utility. Similarly, it is equally worth mentioning that these models have inexpensive motor setups, so all you are paying for is the cutting cost, making them quite reasonable.
Here, after using them for quite some time, I can also say that these snow blowers are absolutely easy to use. This is because they are not only light but possess sharp blades that can cut through heavy snow, without getting sucked in between. I would further like to appreciate the fact that these models are quite precise and accurate, not to mention, provide you with control.
Do Electric Snow Blowers Need to be Plugged in?
Well, it all comes down to the fact that whether the snow blower you are using has a battery or not. If it comes with a battery setup, you can easily use it without the power cord. Here, you just need to make sure that it is charged completely for the job to be done soon. On the contrary, if these blowers are not cordless, you only have one option which is to use an electric cord, as you have no battery backup. So, if you are most likely to do the job away from an electric source, make sure it has a backup system.
In the end, be it basic commercial driveway projects or dealing with areas around your house, nothing better than an electric snow blower can serve you well. Wondering how to find the right electric blower to deal with heavy snow? Is an electric blower worth it? What makes the best blower to deal with heavy snow? Well, this guide has all your answers. Finally, here are some of my favorites from the list;
- Toro 38381 Electric 1800 Curve Snow Blower is best known for its high power range, decent clearance capacity, and improved visibility.
- Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Snow Thrower is one of the best for its high-speed range, adjustable auger design, and straightforward design.
- EGO Power+ SNT2102 Snow Blower is affordable and feels safe, needless to say, and has high clearance capacity.
Finally, I hope you soon will be able to find the best electric snow blowers for heavy snow, as per your requirements.