Review of electric shovels for snow removal: advantages and disadvantages, prices, user opinions
Snow removal can dampen the joy of winter. The process takes a long time and requires physical effort.
However, everything changes when an electric shovel is connected to the work.
Read the article about what this miracle tool is, how to use it and where you can buy an electric shovel for snow removal.
Content
What is an electric snow shovel?
The electric shovel received this name due to the similarity of the handle design with a regular shovel. In addition, the tools have a single purpose - snow removal. This is where the commonalities end.
Electric shovel is represented by the following structural elements:
- handle for controlling and transporting the device;
- Remote Control;
- the housing in which the engine is built;
- auger for collecting snow;
- wheels and gutters (not available on all models);
- reflector;
- bracket for easier movement of equipment.
Equipment is purchased to facilitate snow removal in parks, country houses, private buildings, shops, courtyards and more.
The device is powered from the mains directly or from batteries. During operation, the auger captures snow, distributes it left and right, and then, under pressure, throws it several meters to the side.Thus, the device leaves behind a clean path.
Advantages and disadvantages
Among the advantages electroshovels:
High speed of snow removal.- Automated work that does not require significant physical effort.
- Saving time on clearing the area.
- Possibility of using the equipment in the warm season, but only with replaceable attachments.
- Simple operation and low noise level. The motor runs quietly, so it won’t cause disturbance to others when clearing snow.
- Long service life. High-quality equipment can be used for many years, but only if the instructions are followed.
Disadvantages of technology:
- Requires a power source, increases energy costs.
- “Binding” to an outlet. This problem is relevant for an electric shovel operating directly from the network.
- Costs more than regular shovels.
- Requires storage space and certain conditions.
- May not fit on a narrow path.
- Impressive weight.
- Difficulties when removing frozen snow. Electric shovels are designed for removing loose snow that has recently fallen. If it is covered with crust, the motor will work at its maximum capacity, which may cause it to overheat.
How to use?
Features of use electroshovels:
- attach the extension cord to the hole on the handle - most models have a special hook for this;
- connect the extension cord to the outlet;
- press the “Start” button located on the handle;
- tilt the equipment forward so that the scraper blade touches the ground;
- slowly move forward to completely clear the area - in one pass the equipment removes snow to a depth of about 15 cm; if the snowdrifts are larger, the operation is repeated;
- After completing the cleaning, disconnect the electric shovel from the network, clear it of snow and put it away for storage.
How to choose?
When choosing an electric shovel, you need to pay attention to the following points:
Working width. This parameter determines which strip of clean path will remain after passing the electric shovel.- Engine power. The best option is values of 1000 W. This will allow the motor to work properly and not overheat. The more powerful the engine, the more electricity it will consume.
- Availability of bracket. Not all manufacturers install it, although this significant structural element helps to easily transport the device, whose weight can reach 8 kg. It is needed for equipment without wheels.
- Snow throw range. The average values for a standard device are 8 m. It is necessary to make sure in advance that snow will not fall on neighboring areas.
- The presence of a rubber coating on the auger. If available, an electric shovel can be used on areas with coating that may be damaged.
- Weight. The weight of the device consists of a number of factors: engine power, case material, the presence of a battery, etc. Electric shovels that weigh no more than 7 kg are considered the most comfortable to use.
Where and for how much to buy?
You can purchase an electric shovel in retail stores and online markets. The cost depends on the manufacturer, the quality of the device, the materials and components used.
Top 3 best models
The most popular models of electric shovels:
Huter SGC 2000E
Electric snow blower. 2000 W motor, snow grip – 46x20 cm.The screw is rubberized, which allows the device to be used on different surfaces. Weight – 10.6 kg, snow is thrown at a distance of up to 3 m. Price – 16,300 rubles.
Worx WG450E
Electric snow blower. The motor power is 1600 W, snow capture is 46x25 cm. The weight of the device is 12 kg, the kit includes a plastic chute, the direction of which is manually adjusted. Snow is thrown at a distance of up to 6 m. Price – 11,000 rubles.
PATRIOT PS 2300 E
Electric snow blower. The motor power is 2000 W, snow capture is 50x25 cm. The auger is metal, not rubberized. Snow is thrown over a distance of 9 m from a plastic chute, the direction of which is manually adjusted. The equipment is equipped with headlights. Weight – 14 kg, price – 16,300 rubles.
Alternatives
Alternatively, electric shovels can be used:
- a classic shovel made of plastic, metal, wood or polycarbonate;
- snow blower powered by a gasoline engine;
- snow blower with built-in battery;
- attachment for a brush cutter;
- shovel on wheels.
Helpful information
Tips for work with an electric shovel:
- When clearing snow, you need to keep an eye on the cable. It should not get under your feet or a shovel.
- Before you start cleaning, you need to make sure that the area is free of debris and other solid objects that could damage the auger.
- Stones are not dangerous for equipment, but they can damage nearby buildings or cars.
Conclusion
An electric snow shovel allows you not to be afraid of heavy snowfalls. In the shortest possible time and without much effort, it can be used to clear even the largest snowdrifts.
