A Must Have in Steamboat Springs: A GREAT Snowblower

Snow, it’s what Steamboat Springs, Colorado is all about in the winter.  With many years of over 400-inches of  snow in Steamboat, you will soon learn that a good snow blower is as important as a good coat. We love snow here but you need to be prepared. In my opinion, the two most important things about choosing a snow blower is size and power. Yes size matters.

  • SIZE. Snow blowers come in numerous widths. The larger the better. Typically a a 24″ to 30″ wide snowblower will get ‘er done.
  • POWER. Again, size does matter. Sometimes you don’t have a choice where you need the snow to end up so being able to throw your snow 50-feet away can be necessary.

Some other things to consider before you purchase a snow blower are:
  • Easy start. You want to be able to start it with one pull. Some models come with an electric start option in addition to the pull start.  Some Ariens snowblowers have the option to just plug it in and push a button.
  • Good headlights. Yes, it will be dark sometimes when you are snowblowing.
  • Size. Again, size matters. Make sure you can handle the size and weight of your new machine when you are trying to maneuver it.
  • Snow chute. Some snowblowers have a crank type system for directing your snow, others have a lever system. The crank style is my preference so I can make small, accurate adjustments.
  • Traction. If the snowblower you want has small tires, you can always put chains on them. But, you’d rather just get the larger tires if you can. Again, that size thing; the bigger the better.
  • Warranty and reputation. Ariens snowblowers are my favorite. Honda’s are the king of snow blowers but they come with a hefty price tag.
Living in a ski town has some hidden advantages. One of my favorite research tools is the chairlift.  Ski by yourself one day and pepper your chairlift mates with snowblower questions to find the right one for you. Chairlift rides can be the new Google if you play your cards right.

We have a few sources for snow blowers in town and one of my favorites is Precision Repair Service. Jim, a long time Steamboat local, will deliver your new blower and give you the grand tour of your machine. By the time he’s done, you’ll want to invite him in for a cup of tea, or better yet, a beer. Having a local source who will be there to answer your questions or come pick up your machine for repairs is worth its wait in gold.

If you want some help choosing your snowblower, give me a call, I ‘d be happy to talk to you.

Charlie    970-846-6435