How Much Snow Can a Snowblower Handle?

woman using a snow blower on a sunny winter day

How much snow a snowblower can handle depends on the type of snowblower. Most single-stage snowblowers handle up to a foot of snow, and most two-stage models clear between one and two feet.

The amount of snow a snowblower handles also depends on the type of snow. They handle less when the snow’s wet. Gas-powered two-stage snowblowers are the best at clearing wet snow. However, many electric models quickly clear several inches of powdery snow. 

Types of Snowblowers: Single-Stage Vs.Two-Stage 

Single-stage snowblowers scoop up snow and throw it out the discharge chute in a single swoop. Two-stage snowblowers clear snow in two steps. First, the auger scoops snow and passes it to the impeller. Next, the impeller blows the snow through the discharge chute. 

Single-Stage Two-Stage 
16 – 24 in. width24 – 30 in. width
6 – 12 in. depth12 – 21 in. depth
400 – 2,500 snow lb./min. 1,600 – 3,200 snow lb./min.
Throws 20 – 40 ft. Throws 30 – 50 ft.

The table above summarizes how much snow each type of snowblower typically handles. Two-stage snowblowers are faster, throw snow further, and handle deeper snow. Most single-stage snowblowers cost $280 to $770, and two-stage models typically cost $785 to $2,015.

Single-Stage Snowblowers

Single-Stage Snowblower
Photo Credit: rabbitti / Adobe Stock Free / License

Most single-stage snowblowers have a 16- to 21-inch clearing width, 6 to 12-inch clearing depth, and 20 to 40-foot throwing distance. They plow through 400 to 2,500 pounds of snow each minute. 

The table below shows how gas vs. electric single-stage snowblowers differ.

GasClearing width: 18 to 24 in.
Clearing depth: 6 to 12 in.
Snow per min.: 1,100 to 2,500 lb.
BatteryClearing width: 18 to 21 in.
Clearing depth: 6 to 12 in.
Snow per min.: 400 to 1,500 lb.
Corded ElectricClearing width: 16 to 22 in.
Clearing depth: 6 to 12 in.
Snow per min.: 450 to 800 lb.

Gas-powered single-stage snowblowers are the fastest and most potent, but high-end battery-powered models compete with mid-grade gas models.  

Two-Stage Snowblowers

person using a two-stage snowblower to remove snow
Photo Credit: Oleksandr Tsybulskyy / Adobe Stock Free / License

Most two-stage snowblowers have a 24- to 30-inch clearing width, 1-2 to 21-inch clearing depth, and 30- to 50-foot throwing distance. They plow through 1,600 to 3,200 pounds of snow each minute. 

The table below shows how gas vs. electric two-stage snowblowers differ.

GasClearing width: 24 to 30 in.
Clearing depth: 12 – 21 in.
Snow per min.: 1,900 to 3,200 lb.
BatteryClearing width: 24 in.
Clearing depth: 16 to 20 in.
Snow per min.: 1,600 to 2,400 lb.

Like single-stage models, gas-powered two-stage snowblowers are faster and more potent than electric snowblowers. 

Wet Vs. Dry Snow Removal

Many snowblowers struggle with wet snow because it’s much heavier than dry snow. 

Snow TypeWeight / Square Foot
Dry4 lb.
Normal6 lb.
Wet13 lb.

The approximate weight of 1 square foot of wet vs. dry snow is shown in the table above.

Removing Wet Snow

To remove wet snow, you need a potent snowblower:

  • Power-Source: Most electric motors bog down when handling heavy snow, so the best snowblowers for wet snow are gas-powered.
  • Snowblower Type: Two-stage snowblowers typically have larger engines that can handle more weight. Some single-stage gas snowblowers are good for smaller amounts of wet snow, but two-stage models are much better for several inches.
  • Clearing Depth: The clearing depth of a snowblower is how deep it digs into dry or normal snow. Expect blowers to clear less wet snow with each pass than dry or normal snow. Thus, it may take more than one pass to clear all the wet snow.
  • Clearing Speed: Clearing wet snow is easier if you move slowly. So, set self-propelled snowblowers to their slowest speed.

Removing Dry Snow

Dry snow is light and powdery. Thus, it’s much easier for a snowblower to handle. Gas and electric single-stage snowblowers handle up to a foot of dry snow. Two-stage snowblowers handle 12 to 21 inches of dry snow.

How to Handle Different Types of Surfaces

man clearing snow with snowblower off driveway
Photo Credit: Jeremy T. Hetzel / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

We compiled surface-specific snowblowing tips:

  • Asphalt is susceptible to snowblower damage, so we recommend using a variable-speed snowblower with rubber-tipped blades. If your asphalt driveway has cracks or its protective coating isn’t intact, salt applications will likely cause further damage. 
  • Concrete is firm but not indestructible. Variable plowing speeds allow you to moderate force, thus preventing damage. Natural ice melts are the least damaging, so avoid chemical products. Also, avoid overapplying ice melt.
  • Gravel is easily dismantled by single-stage snowblowers. Along with the snow, they scoop up and throw the gravel. Two-stage models with height-adjusting skid shoes scoop higher, avoiding the gravel. 
  • Decking is easily damaged by heavy snowblowers and metal blades. Your best bet is to use a lightweight single-stage snowblower (or electric snow shovel) with rubber or poly blades. 
  • Pavers are easily scratched. We suggest using a lightweight snowblower or electric snow shovel with rubber or poly blades.

What if You Have a Lot of Snow?

The best snowblowers for heavy snow are two-stage gas models:

  • Snowblower type: Two-stage snowblowers clear wider paths of deeper snow. They’re also much quicker than single-stage models.
  • Power-Source: Gas-powered snowblowers are faster and more potent than electric models. They also give you the best bang for your buck. 
  • Features: Self-propelled snowblowers with power steering and heated grips make removing mass amounts of snow more comfortable. Headlights help if you’re clearing snow after the sun goes down.

Is There a Minimum Amount of Snow to Use a Snow Blower?

If there is less than 2 inches of snow on the ground, it’ll probably be easier to use a snow shovel. We recommend snowblowers to homeowners with at least 20 inches of annual snowfall.

FAQ About Handling Snow

Can you use a snowblower on icy snow?

Some snowblowers can handle icy or compacted snow. Two-stage snowblowers are typically better equipped for ice, but some single-stage models (e.g., Toro SnowMaster 724 QXE) work well on icy snow.

However, the sheer pins are more likely to break when clearing ice. It’s also harder to control a vehicle over ice, but large tires with heavy-duty tread provide better traction.

What’s the best type of snow removal attachment?

According to the University of Southern Maine, a brush attachment works well for light snow, but your best bet for heavy snow is a plow blade or bucket loader. You can purchase snow removal attachments for vehicles like riding lawnmowers and ATVs. 

How do you handle a snowblower safely?

To safely remove snow with a snowblower, you must consider:

  • Proper Dress: Wear shoes with good traction to prevent falls and clothes that aren’t loose to avoid getting caught on the equipment. Always wear safety glasses; hearing protection is necessary if the blower is louder than 85 dB.
  • Proper Operation: Position the discharge chute away from people, cars, and fragile landscaping. Don’t put your hands or feet near the blower’s moving parts. Avoid using snowblowers near children and pets. Be mindful of the extension cord on corded electric models, and don’t start gas-powered models indoors.
  • Cleaning Clogs Safely: Protect your hands by following these best practices. Turn off the snowblower when it clogs. Ensure all parts, including the blade, have stopped moving. Then, use a tool or stick (not your hand) to clear it.

When to Call a Pro

Snow removal is risky, so we recommend hiring a snow removal pro. Doing so keeps you safe and warm while waiting out the winter months. Once the snow melts, grass needs special care to recoup from being covered in ice and snow. To keep your lawn lush, consider hiring a lawn care pro in early spring.

LawnStarter connects you to insured outdoor service pros. With online quotes and a user-friendly app, getting quality lawn care is as easy as ordering a pizza. 

  • “Duty calls when snow falls for grounds crew, custodial staff”.  (2022, February 10). University of Southern Maine
  • Loder, Randall, et al. (2020, December 1) “Events Due to Snowblower Use Seen in US Emergency Departments From 2003 Through 2018”. National Library of Medicine
  • Siple, David (2021, January 5). “How much does snow weigh? . WTHI-TV 10 
  • Snow Blower Safety“. American Society for Surgery of the Hand

Main Photo Credit: Janis Smits / Adobe Stock Free / License

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Michelle Selzer

Michelle Selzer

Michelle Selzer is a witty writer with a passion for plants and outdoor power tools. When she's not out in the yard, Michelle enjoys fishing, hunting, and chasing waterfalls.