What Is A Two-Stage Snowblower And How Does It Make The Job Easier?

Snow is majestic as the white flakes cascade from the sky, and it's fun to build snowmen, but clearing thick piles of it — no thank you. Shoveling in the freezing temperatures is torturous. That's why many turn to snowblowers to speed up the process. However, getting the wrong stage machine is a snowblower mistake that makes your winter cleanup harder.

There are two main types of snowblowers: single-stage and two-stage. With a two-stage blower, there's an auger (a rubber paddle or metal blade) and an impeller (a high-speed fan). This combination allows you to clear an area of snow more easily and quickly.

The auger's job is to collect the snow and send it to the exit chute. Single-stage blowers primarily rely on these blades. Two-stage blowers send the snow from the auger to the impeller, then the exit chute. The amount of snow your area gets, the type of snow it is, and the size of the area you need cleared will help you determine the best snowblower stage for you and your yard.

The high-speed fan in a two-stage blower sends the snow at least 10 feet farther than a single-stage blower can. Different models can get you an even greater range, roughly doubling the propelled distance of a single-stage machine. This helps to clear an area more quickly and easily, and prevents throwing snow back onto a zone you've just cleaned. The advanced machinery is also suitable for various types of snow and surfaces. 

Single-blowers typically only handle up to 10 inches of fluffy, dry snow, and they only work for leveled, paved grounds like a flat walkway. A two-stage blower can tackle heavy snowfall greater than 10 inches, whether wet or dry. It also works on unleveled, unpaved surfaces, like sloped driveways or gravel yards, because they don't scrape against the ground.

Two-stage blowers typically have more powerful engines and enhanced features than their single-stage counterparts. Many models have different speed options, adjustable heights, smoother steering, and reverse clearing. They are recommended for properties with outdoor areas of 1,000 square feet and larger, or even smaller yards that see heavy, icy downfalls. These blowers are must-have tools that make snow removal much easier and save you from a long, cold, laborious task.