6 Tips to Get the Best Performance from Snow Blowers This Winter

Winter is almost here. And when you live in Toronto, that means snow, and lots of it. But is your snow blower up to the challenge? Keep reading for six tips that’ll help you get the most from your snow blower in the season ahead.

1. Up and down motions

To get the best performance from your snow blower, always use an up and down motion when clearing snow on a slope. If you move across the face of a snow-covered slope, you risk destabilizing the machine and tipping over.

2. Not too steep

Never try to clear snow from too steep of a slope. Your snow blower’s operation manual will tell you what the recommended slope limit is and it’s important you respect those guidelines or you risk damaging your equipment.

3. Choose the right blower

If you know you’re going to be clearing a large area or a space with uneven ground, you’ll want to make sure you purchase a snow blower that can handle challenging terrain. Snow blowers with engine-driven wheels make the job a lot easier and can help you avoid both hurting yourself and damaging the equipment.

4. Proper storage

Proper storage can help increase the lifespan of your machine and improve its efficiency throughout the winter. Just be sure to brush off excess snow to avoid ice build-up. When allowed to accumulate, ice build-up can interfere with your snow blower’s performance.

5. Use the right kind of oil

Consult your snow blower’s operation manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. Using a good quality oil that’s designed for use with your equipment will help ensure the proper functioning of your snow blower for years to come.

6. Have it serviced

Just like any other expensive piece of machinery, snow blowers need regular maintenance or they simply won’t be able to perform properly. Take some time in the fall to:

• • Apply lubricant to moving parts
• • Change the engine oil
• • Change spark plugs
• • Check the level and condition of the fuel
• • Inspect the drive and auger and adjust if necessary
• • Inspect the fan bearing
• • Inspect the gear box
• • Tighten all screws and fasteners
• • Wipe away any dust and debris

Storing, maintaining and using your snow blower properly will extend its lifespan and ensure that it’s in good working condition when you need it the most.

For more tips on how to care for snow blowers, visit Toronto’s Hitch City today. We’re your source for snow equipment, auto, van and truck accessories from hitches, to liners to cargo racks and more. Contact one of our three locations today to learn more about our services!