Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

Hi,

I'm contemplating buying a snowblower for my Dad, and have some basic questions.  I've read many of your posts, and am a little lost right now with all the discussions!...lol

He lives in Alberta, Canada - where they get only a foot and a half of snow per year.  But since he has a gigantic driveway, sidewalk and patio, he has a lot of ground to cover, and since all his neighbors are aging, I think a snowblower could help him.  However, although there is not much snow, it gets very cold (25 below - Fahrenheit) and he doesn't have a garage.  Will the snowblower still start if it's stored in an unheated garden shed?  And, given that there's not much snow, but cold, does he need to get the heavy-duty ones (2 stage?) that I have seen mentioned?  Or will it be enough to get a "lighter" one?  Is a snowblower practical in terms of maintenance and starting?

I would really appreciate any advice anyone has to offer.  I hope these questions weren't too laughable for this forum!

Thank you.

Something like an Ariens Compact with electric start should do great for him.

You can buy a cover or just put a tarp over it.

I'd go with a smaller - say 5 HP -- 2 stage, 4 cycle,  with electric start.  But if you can, stay away from Tecumseh engines -- I have 2 pieces of equipment with them and they are of poor quality.