Pull the starter cord – that’s the first step in how to start a snowblower. You need to check the fuel, oil, and choke first, then give the cord a firm, quick pull to get the engine going.
I know it can feel tricky the first time. The engine is cold and you just want to clear your driveway. But if you follow the right steps, you’ll get it running every time.
I’ve started dozens of snowblowers over the years. Some were old and cranky, others were brand new. The basic process is always the same once you know what to do.
This guide will walk you through it all. We’ll cover everything from your first pull to fixing common problems.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Before you even touch the starter cord, you need to check a few things. Think of this as your pre-flight check. It makes the whole process smoother.
First, look at the fuel. Is there gas in the tank? It sounds simple, but I’ve been fooled by a near-empty tank before. Fresh fuel works best for how to start a snowblower.
Next, check the oil level. Your machine needs oil to run without damage. Most have a dipstick or a sight glass so you can see the level.
Now find the controls. Look for the choke lever and the fuel valve. The choke helps a cold engine start by giving it more fuel. You’ll use it every cold morning.
Clear the area around the snowblower. Make sure the discharge chute is pointed in a safe direction. You don’t want to throw snow at a window or a car.
Finally, put on your safety gear. Good boots and gloves are a must. Hearing protection is a good idea too, because these machines are loud.
The Step-by-Step Process to Start Your Machine
Now for the main event. Here is the exact process for how to start a snowblower. Follow these steps in order for the best result.
Step one is to turn on the fuel valve. This lets gas flow to the engine. On many models, you turn a knob to the “On” position. It’s a simple but crucial step.
Step two is to set the choke. Move the choke lever to the “Full” or “Closed” position for a cold start. This is key for learning how to start a snowblower on a chilly day.
Step three is to press the primer bulb. You’ll usually find a small rubber button. Press it two or three times to send a little fuel into the carburetor.
Step four is to set the throttle. Move the throttle lever to the “Fast” or “Start” setting. The engine needs a higher speed to catch and run when it’s cold.
Step five is the big pull. Grab the starter cord handle firmly. Brace yourself and pull the cord in one smooth, quick motion. Don’t yank it like you’re starting a lawnmower.
If the engine sputters but doesn’t stay running, pull the cord again. It might take a few tries. Once it starts, let it run for a minute with the choke still on.
How to Start a Snowblower with an Electric Starter
Many newer models have an electric start button. This is a nice feature for how to start a snowblower without pulling a cord. It’s much easier on your back and shoulders.
The first steps are the same. Check your fuel and oil. Turn the fuel valve to the “On” position. Set the choke to “Full” for a cold engine.
Now, instead of pulling a cord, you’ll plug in the power cord. The electric starter needs an outlet. Run an extension cord from your house or garage to the machine.
Plug the snowblower’s cord into the extension cord. Make sure the connections are dry. Water and electricity are a bad mix, so be careful.
Once it’s plugged in, just push the electric start button. Hold it for a few seconds. The engine should turn over and start right up. It’s that simple.
After the engine is running, you can unplug the cord. Let the machine warm up for a minute or two. Then you’re ready to clear snow. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration says to always be safe with cords and electricity outdoors.
What to Do If Your Snowblower Won’t Start
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the engine won’t turn over. Don’t panic. This happens to everyone. Here are the most common fixes for when you can’t figure out how to start a snowblower.
First, check for old gas. Gasoline goes bad after a few months. If you left fuel in the tank all summer, it might be the problem. Drain the old gas and put in fresh fuel.
Next, check the spark plug. A dirty or fouled spark plug won’t create a spark. You can take it out and clean it with a wire brush. If it looks damaged, just replace it.
Make sure the auger control is disengaged. Many machines have a safety feature. If the auger lever is engaged, the engine won’t start. Release all drive and auger controls.
Is the engine flooded? You might smell gas. If you think it’s flooded, turn the fuel valve off. Move the choke to “Off” and pull the starter cord a bunch of times to clear it out.
Finally, consider the temperature. Some engines are very hard to start in extreme cold. If it’s below zero, you might need to store the machine in a slightly warmer spot before trying. The U.S. Department of Energy has tips on storing equipment in winter.
Starting a Snowblower After Long Storage
Starting a machine that’s been sitting all summer is different. You need to take extra steps. Here is how to start a snowblower that’s been in storage.
First, give the whole machine a visual check. Look for animal nests or chewed wires. Mice love to make homes in stored equipment during warm months.
Drain any old fuel from the tank and the carburetor. Stale gas is the number one reason stored engines won’t start. Use a siphon or a turkey baster to get it all out.
Add fresh, high-quality gasoline to the tank. Consider using a fuel stabilizer if you plan to store it again. This keeps the gas from breaking down as fast.
Check and change the oil if needed. Old oil gets dirty and loses its ability to protect the engine. Fresh oil is cheap insurance for learning how to start a snowblower reliably.
Before you pull the cord, turn the engine over by hand if you can. This helps circulate the new oil. It also makes sure nothing is stuck or seized up after months of sitting.
Safety Tips Every Time You Start Up
Safety should always come first. A snowblower is a powerful tool with moving parts. Follow these rules every single time you go through the steps for how to start a snowblower.
Never start the engine in an enclosed space. Carbon monoxide from the exhaust can kill you. Always start and run your snowblower outside where there’s plenty of fresh air.
Keep your hands and feet away from the auger and chute. Make sure all guards and shields are in place before you start the machine. They are there for a good reason.
Don’t wear loose clothing or long scarves. Anything that dangles can get caught in the moving parts. Wear fitted layers that will keep you warm and safe.
Clear the area of kids, pets, and debris before starting. Rocks, toys, or newspapers can become dangerous projectiles when thrown by the auger. A quick look around can prevent a big problem.
Always turn off the engine and remove the spark plug wire before you do any work on the machine. This is the only way to be sure it won’t accidentally start up on you. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports many injuries from not following this simple rule.
Warming Up and Using Your Snowblower
You’ve got the engine running. Great job! But you’re not quite ready to tackle the snowbank. You need to let the machine warm up and understand the controls.
Let the engine run for two to three minutes after you start it. This is especially important in cold weather. It allows the oil to warm up and circulate fully.
While it’s warming up, slowly move the choke lever to the “Off” or “Open” position. The engine speed should smooth out. If it starts to sputter, give it a little more choke.
Now test the drive and auger controls. Make sure you know how to engage and disengage them. Practice with the machine off first if you’re a new user.
Start blowing snow with a slow, steady pace. Don’t try to take too deep of a cut on the first pass. Let the machine do the work, and take your time.
If you hit a heavy patch or the machine bogs down, stop. Release the auger control, let the engine recover, and then take a smaller bite. Learning how to start a snowblower is one thing, but using it well takes a little practice.
Shutting Down Your Snowblower Correctly
How you finish is just as important as how you start. A proper shutdown protects your engine and makes the next start easier. Here’s the right way to do it.
After you’re done clearing snow, let the engine run for a minute without a load. This helps it cool down a bit. Just idle it on the cleared driveway or patio.
Turn the throttle lever down to the “Slow” or “Idle” position. Let it run like this for about 30 seconds. This stabilizes the engine temperature before you shut it off.
Now, turn the fuel valve to the “Off” position. This is a key step many people skip. It lets the engine use up the fuel in the carburetor bowl.
Let the engine run until it stops on its own. It will sputter and die when it burns the last of the fuel in the line. This helps prevent gum and varnish buildup in the carburetor.
Once the engine is completely off, you can clean off any snow and slush. Store it in a dry place. Following these steps is a big part of knowing how to start a snowblower next time, because a clean carburetor starts much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start a snowblower for the first time each season?
Check the fuel, oil, and spark plug first. Use fresh gas. Set the choke to full and pull the starter cord firmly. It might take a few tries after a long rest.
Why won’t my snowblower start even with new gas?
Check the spark plug for dirt or damage. Make sure the auger control is disengaged. The engine might be flooded, so try starting with the choke off and the fuel valve closed to clear it.
How to start a snowblower that was stored with gas in it?
You likely have stale fuel. Drain all the old gas from the tank and carburetor. Put in fresh gasoline. You may also need to clean the carburetor jet if it’s gummed up.
Is it bad to use starting fluid on a snowblower?
I don’t recommend it. Starting fluid can damage engine parts. It’s better to figure out the real reason it won’t start, like bad gas or a dirty spark plug.
How to start a snowblower in very cold weather?
Use the full choke. Press the primer bulb a few extra times. Consider storing the machine in a slightly warmer spot, like a shed, before you need to use it on a bitter cold day.
