How to use a snow blower safely this season

When winter rolls in and blankets our neighborhoods with snow, snow blowers become our go-to for keeping driveways and walkways clear. These machines make snow removal a breeze, but it’s important to use them safely to avoid any accidents. Let’s cover some key safety tips so you can tackle the snowy season with confidence.

Important: The info in this article might not match your exact appliance model. We try to give helpful advice for all kinds of DIY repairs, but different models can have their own troubleshooting steps, error codes, part replacements, etc. For the best guidance, we recommend checking out the manufacturer’s documentation for your specific model or reaching out to us if you have questions.

1. Prepare your snow blower before the season starts

Before you even fire up your snow blower for the season, it’s important to ensure everything is in good working order. A little preparation can save you time and trouble when the snow starts piling up.

Steps to prepare your snow blower:

1. Look over your snow blower for any visible damage, like cracked parts or loose bolts.
2. Check the belts, shear pins, and auger for wear and tear. Replace any worn or broken components.
3. Apply lubricant to the auger shaft, bearings, and any other moving parts to keep them working smoothly.
4. Go through your snow blower’s user manual to familiarize yourself with its features and safety guidelines.
5. Note any specific maintenance tasks recommended for your model.
6. Start the engine to ensure it runs smoothly.
7. Check that all controls, including the auger, chute, and drive system, are functioning properly.

Read more: Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Snowblower

2. Dress appropriately for snow  

Wearing the right gear is essential for staying safe and comfortable while using your snow blower. Proper clothing can protect you from cold, flying debris, and potential accidents.

What to wear:

• Choose thick, non-slip boots to keep your feet warm and prevent slipping on icy surfaces.
• Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from the cold and flying debris.
• Use safety glasses to shield your eyes from snow, ice, or small debris that may be thrown by the machine.
• Tuck in scarves, drawstrings, and other loose items to prevent them from getting caught in the auger or other moving parts.

Tip: Bright or reflective clothing is a good idea if you’re working in low-light conditions, making you more visible to others.

3. Prepare the area before snow blowing

Before starting your snow blower, take a few minutes to prepare the area you’ll be clearing. This helps prevent damage to your machine and ensures safe operation.

Steps to prepare the area:

1. Remove rocks, sticks, or other debris that could damage the auger or be thrown from the chute.
2. Use stakes or flags to mark hidden obstacles like curbs, garden edges, or uneven terrain that could be hard to see under the snow.
3. Avoid operating your snow blower on icy slopes or uneven surfaces where slipping or tipping could occur.
4. If snow blowing at dawn, dusk, or in poor visibility, ensure proper lighting in the area to see clearly and stay safe.

Read more: Snowblower won’t start: A troubleshooting guide

4. Operate the snow blower safely

Using your snow blower correctly is key to getting the job done efficiently and avoiding accidents. By following these steps, you’ll ensure safe and effective operation.

How to operate safely:

1. Start your snow blower outdoors, not in an enclosed space, to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
2. Make sure all controls are in the off position before starting the engine.
3. Push the snow blower steadily and let it do the work. Avoid forcing it through heavy snow; let the auger handle it gradually.
4. Always keep your hands and feet away from moving parts, like the auger and impeller.
5. Point the chute away from people, pets, windows, and vehicles to prevent injury or damage.
6. Wear reflective clothing or ensure your work area is well-lit if snow blowing in low-light conditions.

Read more: Snowblower chute won’t turn: A troubleshooting guide

5. Handle clogs safely

Clogs in the auger or chute are common when dealing with heavy or wet snow. Clearing them safely is essential to avoid injuries and keep your snow blower working properly.

How to clear clogs safely:

1. Always shut off the engine and disconnect the spark plug before attempting to clear a clog. This ensures the auger won’t accidentally engage.
2. Never use your hands to clear the auger or chute. Use a clearing stick or a similar tool designed for this purpose.
3. After clearing the clog, check for any remaining debris in the auger or chute that might cause further blockages.
4. Reconnect the spark plug, start the engine, and test the auger and chute to ensure they’re functioning properly.

Tip: To minimize clogs, try to work in smaller passes during heavy or wet snow and avoid overloading the auger.

6. Maintain your snow blower throughout the season

Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your snow blower running efficiently all winter long. A little attention after each use can prevent bigger problems down the road.

How to maintain your snow blower:

1. Remove snow, ice, and debris from the auger, chute, and housing.
2. Wipe down metal parts to prevent rust and corrosion.
3. Check belts, shear pins, and cables for signs of wear or damage. Replace any components that look worn.
4. Test the fuel system to ensure there are no clogs or leaks.
5. Lubricate moving parts, like the auger shaft and bearings, as recommended in your manual.

Tip: Use fresh gas with a stabilizer to prevent engine issues, especially if your snow blower sits unused for long periods.

7. Store the snow blower safely

Proper storage during and after the snow season ensures your snow blower stays in great condition and is ready to go when you need it.

How to store your snow blower:

1. Keep the snow blower in a dry, covered space to prevent rust and ice buildup.
2. Ensure the tires or tracks are clean and properly inflated.
3. Drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent stale gas from clogging the system.
4. Clean the machine thoroughly, removing dirt, salt, and debris from all surfaces.
5. Lubricate all moving parts, including the auger shaft and bearings, to protect them during storage.
6. Store the machine in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Tip: Cover your snow blower with a weather-resistant cover for added protection against dust and moisture.

Regular maintenance

For more tips and resources, visit AppliancePartsPros.com. We’re here to help you with all your appliance part needs and repair guidance.

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If you’ve got any questions or need a hand, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help you stay safe and keep your appliances running smoothly.