December 18th, 2024
Why a Snowplow Shovel Might Be the Best 'Snow Blower' for Homeowners
Why a Snowplow Shovel Might Be the Best 'Snow Blower' for Homeowners
When winter arrives, so does the age-old struggle with
snow-covered driveways and sidewalks. Many homeowners instinctively turn to
snow blowers, imagining them as the ultimate solution to winter woes. But what
if the best "snow blower" isn’t a machine at all? Enter the humble snowplow
shovel—a tool that’s been quietly proving its worth for years. For the average
homeowner, it may be the smarter, cheaper, and even more effective option.
The Appeal of Snow Blowers
Snow blowers have an undeniable allure. They promise speed,
power, and convenience, cutting through even the heaviest snow with ease. For
large driveways or regions with heavy snowfall, their capabilities can seem
indispensable.
However, there’s a hidden side to these machines:
- High
upfront cost: Quality snow blowers often cost hundreds, if not
thousands, of dollars.
- Ongoing
maintenance: Engines need regular servicing, belts can wear out, and
repairs can be expensive.
- Fuel
or electricity dependency: Gas models require regular refueling, while
electric ones depend on long cords or pricey batteries.
- Storage
woes: Their bulky size demands significant garage or shed space.
Enter the Snow Plow Shovel
A snowplow shovel, on the other hand, is refreshingly
simple. It’s a manually operated tool featuring a wide, curved blade designed
to push snow out of the way efficiently. While it might seem old-fashioned,
this tool boasts several key advantages:
- Affordability - At a fraction of the cost of a
snow blower, a snow plow shovel is accessible to nearly every budget.
- Ease of Use - There’s no learning curve or
complicated setup—just grab it and start clearing.
- Maintenance-Free - With no engines or moving
parts, there’s nothing to maintain or repair.
- Eco-Friendly - Unlike gas-powered blowers, a
snow plow shovel produces zero emissions, making it a sustainable choice.
- Compact and Lightweight - Easy to store in a
corner of the garage, it takes up virtually no space.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Cost
- A good
snowplow shovel: ~$30–$100.
- A
reliable snow blower: $500–$2,500 (plus fuel or electricity costs).
Performance
- Light
snow: Both tools are effective, but the shovel wins for speed in small
spaces.
- Heavy,
wet snow: With proper technique, a snow plow shovel can clear thick
snow faster than a mid-range blower.
- Tight
spaces: Shovels excel in clearing narrow pathways or between parked
cars.
Safety
- Snow
blowers can pose risks like flying debris or mechanical injuries.
- Snow
plow shovels, especially ergonomic models, minimize strain and reduce the
risk of slips or accidents.
Best Practices for Using a Snow Plow Shovel
To get the most out of your snow plow shovel, follow these
tips:
- Choose
the Right Shovel: Look for one with a sturdy, ergonomic handle and a
blade width that matches your strength and driveway size.
- Use
Proper Technique: Push snow in manageable increments and avoid
overloading the blade. For heavier snow, tackle it in layers rather than
trying to push it all at once.
- Care
for Your Shovel: Clean it after each use and store it in a dry area to
prevent rust or wear.
Conclusion
For the average homeowner, a snow plow shovel might just be
the unsung hero of winter. It’s affordable, easy to use, and better for the
environment, all while holding its own against much pricier snow blowers. So,
this winter, before investing in a bulky machine, consider the snow plow
shovel—a tool that proves sometimes simpler really is better.
Have you tried a snow plow shovel? Share your experience and
let us know if it beats a snow blower for you!
