Power Up for Snow Removal | |
According to a study by Dr. Barry Franklin, director of Cardiac Rehabilitation and Exercise Laboratories at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Mich., snow shoveling requires between 6 and 15 times as much energy as is required during rest periods. That's the equivalent to the physical exertion required to play singles tennis or running at a speed of 9 mph. Combine that with cold temperatures, which often numb or camouflage the symptoms of over exertion, and "it's no surprise we often read about heart attacks, cardiovascular complications or even deaths directly resulting from snow shoveling," says Franklin. Now that you have a great reason to look for a snowthrower, here are a few basic guidelines to help you determine which model is right for you: What Size Unit? Walk-behind snowthrowers generally fit into one of three categories, single-stage, two-stage and electric, although some blurring is occurring between the different types of technology. Single-stage units are light and easy to maneuver. They gather snow with a high-speed rotor and throw it out of the machine in a single action. Two-stage units first break up the snow with a slow-turning auger, then pass it to a high-speed impeller that blows it out of the machine through a chute. The two-stage units are more powerful, and can throw snow up to 30 feet. However, some manufacturers say improvements in single-stage technology are increasing the distance that these units can throw snow. Continuing progress in two-stage technology is adding another "level" of power in snowthrowers. Advancements have been made in electric snowthrower technology as well. Some electric models feature a bell-curved rotor that spins and wipes snow off the underlying surface. This has vastly improved the performance of electric snowthrowers, while retaining the advantages of electric equipment such as reduced noise levels, size and weight as well as a lower price tag. Power Comparisons As a general rule of thumb, electric snowthrowers are not built to be as powerful as some of the larger gas-powered models. Yet for those living on the edge of the snowbelt, or with smaller areas to clear such as walks and short driveways, the little bit of power lost is exchanged for lighter weight, no maintenance, easier starting, smaller storage requirements, and a lower price. For example, there are electric power shovels on the market, which are compact 12-pound units with a 12-in. clearing path at a suggested retail price of under $200. For heavy-duty snow removal, gas-powered equipment is the answer. Light, fluffy snow found in mountain regions can be handled with a single-stage machine. For example, you can purchase a single-stage snowthrower at a suggested retail price of $370, which features self-propelling action, adjustable throwing direction and a 1,400 pound per minute capacity. For snow depths of more than 6 inches, or heavy, wet or icy snow, a two-stage snowthrower is going to be your best bet. These larger units also are recommended for rough or gravel surfaces. Larger, two-stage snowthrowers can range in price from $700 to $2,000 and more. Important "Extras" Always consider the throwing distance and ability to control the placement of the discharge on a snowthrower. The unit you buy should have a flexible discharge system so you're not blowing snow back on areas that have just been cleared. Also, if you're clearing a wide area such as a three-car driveway, make sure the snowthrower you choose can throw snow the proper distance. Easy starting is an important feature. Many gas-powered models have electric start options, which are highly recommended on the larger two-stage units. As with any piece of outdoor power equipment, it's important to match the equipment to the user. Be sure to consider weight and maneuverability when purchasing a snowthrower. For example, snowthrowers with six-in. tracks have excellent forward traction, but are much more difficult to turn than units with tires. Although most reputable manufacturers are producing quality equipment, problems can arise from time to time, so make sure there's a service center in your area that can handle the type of snowthrower you buy. As a final tip, read the warranty before buying any snowthrower, gas or electric. Look for full warranties that cover all defects in materials and workmanship. Courtesy of the Article Resource Association. |