Shovels vs Snowblowers! Lets see which one is better at the task. Snowblowers and shovels are the two most common tools used to clear snow from driveways and sidewalks during the winter months. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one for your needs will depend on a variety of factors. In this article, we’ll compare the benefits of a snowblower and a shovel to help you make an informed decision.
Snowblowers:
- Speed: Snowblowers are much faster at clearing snow than shovels. With a snowblower, you can clear a large area in a fraction of the time it would take to shovel the same area. This is especially true for heavy, wet snow, which can be challenging to shovel and can take much longer to clear.
- Ease of Use: Snowblowers are designed to be easy to use and require very little physical effort. All you have to do is start the machine and steer it in the direction you want to go. This is in contrast to shoveling, which can be a physically demanding task, especially for those who are older or have physical limitations.
- Consistency: Snowblowers provide a consistent and uniform result, as they have a defined path of movement. With a shovel, the amount of snow cleared and the quality of the job will depend on the strength and experience of the person doing the shoveling.
- Clearing Large Areas: Snowblowers are ideal for clearing large areas, such as driveways and sidewalks, as they can cover a lot of ground quickly. Shoveling, on the other hand, can be time-consuming and physically demanding, especially for larger areas.
Drawbacks of Snowblowers:
- Cost: Snowblowers can be expensive, especially for high-end models with more advanced features. In addition to the cost of the machine, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of maintenance and storage.
- Noise: Snowblowers can be loud, especially gas-powered models. This can be a problem for those who live in residential areas and need to use their snowblower early in the morning or late at night.
- Maintenance: Snowblowers require regular maintenance, such as oil changes and spark plug replacements, to keep them running smoothly. This can be time-consuming and costly.
- Limited Use: Snowblowers are not effective in clearing snow from tight spaces, such as around trees or flower beds, or on uneven surfaces.
Shovels:
- Cost: Shovels are much cheaper than snowblowers and require no maintenance or storage costs. In addition, you can use a shovel for other tasks, such as digging and removing debris, making it a more versatile tool.
- Quiet: Shovels are quiet and won’t disturb the neighbors, making them a good choice for those who live in residential areas.
- Exercise: Shoveling can be a good form of exercise, especially for those who live in areas with heavy snowfall.
- No Emissions: Shovels don’t produce emissions and are environmentally friendly, making them a good choice for those who are concerned about the environment.
Drawbacks of Shovels:
- Physical Effort: Shoveling can be physically demanding, especially for those who are older or have physical limitations. In addition, shoveling heavy, wet snow can be challenging and can take much longer to clear than using a snowblower.
- Inconsistent Results: The amount of snow cleared and the quality of the job will depend on the strength and experience of the person doing the shoveling. This can result in an inconsistent and uneven clearing of snow, making it necessary to go back over areas that have not been cleared properly.
- Time-Consuming: Shoveling can be time-consuming, especially for large areas, and can take several hours to clear a driveway or sidewalk. This can be a problem for those who have a busy schedule and need to get the job done quickly.
- Limited Use: Shovels are not effective in clearing deep or heavy snow, and can be challenging to use in these conditions.
In conclusion, the choice between a snowblower and a shovel will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. Snowblowers are faster and easier to use, but they are more expensive and require regular maintenance. Shovels are cheaper and don’t require any maintenance, but they can be physically demanding and time-consuming. Before making a decision, consider factors such as the size of the area you need to clear, your budget, and your physical abilities. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and choose the tool that best fits your needs.