In regions where heavy snowfall is common, snow removal is an essential task that ensures safety and accessibility during the winter months. One of the most efficient and popular tools for clearing snow is the snow blower. These machines are designed to move large amounts of snow from driveways, walkways, and other outdoor areas quickly and effectively. Traditionally, snow blowers required manual starting, but advancements in technology have led to the development of electric start snow blowers. In this article, we will explore what an electric start snow blower is, how it works, its benefits, and its applications in various environments. We will also compare electric start snow blowers to their pull-start counterparts, highlighting the advantages of the former.
What is a Snow Blower?
Before delving into electric start snow blowers, it is important to understand what a snow blower is. A snow blower is a machine designed to remove snow by blowing it out of the way. Unlike shovels or plows, snow blowers are powered devices that use an auger system to collect the snow and a fan (impeller) to discharge it through a chute. These machines are ideal for clearing driveways, sidewalks, and paths, and they come in various sizes, ranging from small, single-stage models for residential use to larger, more powerful two-stage and three-stage models for commercial or industrial use.
There are generally three types of snow blowers:
Single-Stage Snow Blowers: These machines use a single auger to both gather and expel the snow. They are best suited for light snowfall (up to 8 inches) and work on paved surfaces.
Two-Stage Snow Blowers: These feature an auger for gathering snow and an impeller (fan) to discharge the snow. These machines are more powerful and can handle heavier snowfalls, making them suitable for deeper snow and larger areas.
Three-Stage Snow Blowers: These are the most powerful snow blowers, designed for clearing large areas and deep, heavy snow. They utilize an additional accelerator to help break up snow, making them suitable for commercial and industrial environments.
Electric start snow blowers are typically found in the two-stage and three-stage varieties, though some single-stage models are also available with this feature.
What is an Electric Start Snow Blower?
An electric start snow blower is a snow removal machine that features an electric starting system, allowing users to start the engine with the push of a button. Unlike traditional snow blowers that rely on a manual pull-start mechanism, electric start snow blowers offer a more convenient and reliable method for powering up the engine, particularly in colder weather when manual starting can be difficult.
The electric start system in snow blowers generally consists of a small electric motor and a starter circuit that can be powered through a standard electrical outlet or a battery. This system is a valuable feature for users who may struggle with pulling a recoil cord or who live in extremely cold climates, where manual starting can be especially challenging.
Electric start snow blowers typically come in two configurations:
Electric Start with Cord: This model requires the user to plug the snow blower into an electrical outlet using an extension cord. When the electric start button is pressed, power is supplied to the starter motor, which engages the engine, starting it quickly and easily.
Electric Start with Battery: This version uses an integrated rechargeable battery, meaning the machine does not need to be plugged into an outlet to start. The battery is charged and stored within the machine, and pressing the electric start button activates the motor to start the engine.
The primary advantage of an electric start snow blower is the ease and convenience it offers in starting the engine. However, it is important to note that an electric start snow blower still requires regular maintenance, including charging or replacing the battery (if applicable) and ensuring that the power cord is in good condition.
How Does an Electric Start Snow Blower Work?
The basic operation of an electric start snow blower is similar to that of a traditional snow blower. The electric start feature primarily affects the ignition process. Let’s break down the key steps involved:
Power Supply: The electric start system is powered either by an electrical outlet (in corded models) or a battery (in battery-powered models). When the user presses the start button, the system sends electrical power to the starter motor.
Starter Motor Activation: The starter motor engages the engine’s flywheel, causing the engine to rotate. The rotation of the flywheel triggers the ignition process, allowing the engine to start.
Fuel and Air Mixture: Once the engine is running, fuel is drawn into the engine, and the carburetor mixes it with air to create a combustive mixture. This mixture is ignited by the spark plug, powering the engine.
Snow Removal: With the engine running, the auger and impeller system begins to operate. The auger rotates, gathering snow and sending it into the impeller, which then throws the snow out of the chute. The user can control the direction and distance of the snow discharge by adjusting the chute.
Benefits of Electric Start Snow Blowers
Electric start snow blowers provide several advantages over traditional pull-start models. Some of the key benefits include:
Ease of Use: The electric start system eliminates the need for manual pulling, which can be especially challenging in cold weather when engines are harder to start. A simple press of a button makes it easier to start the machine, even for individuals with limited physical strength.
Reliability: In extreme cold temperatures, recoil pull-start systems can become difficult to operate. The electric start system is less affected by cold weather, ensuring a more reliable start in harsh conditions.
Convenience: With an electric start, there is no need to worry about yanking a cord repeatedly. The convenience of an electric start is particularly noticeable during long snow removal sessions or when dealing with snow accumulation over an extended period.
Consistency: Recoil pull-start systems sometimes fail to start the engine on the first try, especially if the user does not pull the cord with enough force. With an electric start system, the engine is more likely to start on the first try, reducing frustration.
Safety: For users who struggle with physical strength, using a pull-start system can pose a risk of injury. The electric start minimizes physical strain and makes the operation of the machine safer, particularly for older adults or people with limited mobility.
Applications of Electric Start Snow Blowers
Electric start snow blowers are versatile machines that can be used in a variety of settings. Some common applications include:
Residential Use: Many homeowners use electric start snow blowers to clear driveways, sidewalks, and patios during winter. The electric start feature provides ease of use for individuals who need to clear snow regularly.
Commercial Use: Businesses, especially those in areas with heavy snowfall, often use electric start snow blowers to maintain parking lots, walkways, and other outdoor areas. The efficiency and ease of starting make these machines an ideal choice for busy commercial environments.
Municipal Use: Local governments and municipalities often deploy electric start snow blowers to maintain public roads, parks, and other public spaces during winter weather. These machines are capable of handling heavier snowfalls and larger areas.
Industrial Use: In industrial settings, electric start snow blowers are used to clear large outdoor spaces like factory yards, warehouses, and distribution centers. These machines are often larger and more powerful, capable of tackling deep snow and large volumes of snow accumulation.
Comparison Between Electric Start and Pull-Start Snow Blowers
While both electric start and pull-start snow blowers are effective at clearing snow, there are a few differences between the two that may influence a buyer’s decision:
Ease of Starting: Electric start snow blowers are far easier to start than pull-start models, especially in cold conditions. Pull-start snow blowers require manual effort to pull the cord, which can be difficult for people with limited strength or mobility.
Maintenance: Electric start snow blowers require regular maintenance of the electric start system, including charging the battery or ensuring that the power cord is functional. Pull-start models, however, do not require maintenance of an electric system but may require maintenance for the recoil starter mechanism.
Cost: Electric start snow blowers are generally more expensive than pull-start models due to the additional electrical components. However, the price difference may be justified by the added convenience and ease of use.
Battery Life and Cord Length: Electric start snow blowers with battery-powered systems require periodic charging, and users must ensure the battery is in good condition. Corded electric start snow blowers are limited by the length of the power cord, whereas pull-start models are not restricted in this way.
Conclusion
Electric start snow blowers have revolutionized the snow removal process by offering a more user-friendly and reliable alternative to traditional pull-start models. With their ease of use, reliability, and convenience, electric start snow blowers are a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. Whether powered by a cord or battery, these machines offer consistent performance, especially in cold weather, making them a valuable tool for anyone who needs to clear snow quickly and effectively. By understanding the benefits and working principles of electric start snow blowers, individuals can make informed decisions when choosing the best equipment for their snow removal needs.