Yes, you can start your Honda HS720 snow blower in a few easy steps. Learning how to start Honda HS720 snow blower is simple once you know the right order of operations.
I know it can feel tricky the first time. The engine is cold and the controls seem new. But trust me, it gets easy with practice.
I’ve started this model many times over the years. The process is the same every time if you follow the steps. Let me walk you through it so you can clear your driveway fast.
This guide will show you the exact steps. We’ll cover the key controls, common mistakes, and tips for easy starts every time.
What You Need to Know First
Before you pull the starter rope, you need to check a few things. This saves you time and frustration later on.
Make sure you have fresh fuel in the tank. Old gas from last season can cause starting problems. I always use fuel with no ethanol if I can find it.
Check the oil level using the dipstick. The Honda HS720 needs the right amount of oil to run well. Low oil can damage the engine over time.
Look at the auger and chute area. Clear out any packed snow or debris. A clear path lets the engine turn over easier when you learn how to start Honda HS720 snow blower.
Find a flat, clear spot to work. You don’t want the machine rolling while you start it. Good footing for you is important too.
Wear the right clothes for safety. That means no loose scarves or jacket strings. They could get caught in the moving parts.
The Step-by-Step Starting Process
Here is the exact order to follow. Do these steps the same way each time for the best results.
First, locate the fuel valve on the side of the engine. Turn it to the “On” position. This lets gas flow to the carburetor so the engine can run.
Next, find the choke lever. Push it all the way to the “Choke” position for a cold start. This gives the engine a richer fuel mix to start easily.
Now, move the engine stop switch to the “On” or “Run” position. This is a simple toggle switch. It completes the electrical circuit for the spark plug.
Grab the primer bulb, which is a small rubber button. Press it firmly 3 to 5 times. You should see fuel moving in the clear fuel line.
Finally, hold the auger clutch lever down. This disengages the auger so only the engine turns over. Pull the starter rope with a smooth, strong motion.
When you learn how to start Honda HS720 snow blower, this sequence is key. Doing it out of order can make the engine hard to start.
Using the Choke Correctly
The choke is a common trouble spot for new users. Using it wrong is a top reason for hard starts.
For a completely cold engine, use full choke. This means the lever is all the way up or over. It restricts air to make the fuel mix rich.
If the engine is warm from recent use, use half choke. Move the lever to the middle position. This gives a more balanced air-fuel mix.
For a hot restart, use no choke at all. Leave the lever in the “Run” position. The engine should fire right up.
Remember to open the choke once the engine starts and runs for 30 seconds. Move the lever slowly to the “Run” position. Let the engine warm up for a minute before you work.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, proper equipment setup prevents strain. Using controls correctly is part of safe operation.
Mastering the choke is a big part of learning how to start Honda HS720 snow blower. It feels natural after a few tries.
Priming the Engine
Priming pushes a small amount of fuel directly into the carburetor. This gives the engine what it needs for the first few revolutions.
Find the small, round, rubber primer bulb on the engine. It’s usually red or black. Press it in firmly until you feel resistance.
Press the bulb 3 to 5 times for a cold start. Watch the clear fuel line next to it. You should see bubbles or fuel moving toward the carburetor.
For a warm engine, you might only need 1 or 2 presses. Too much priming can flood the engine. This makes it harder to start.
If you think you flooded it, wait 5 minutes. Then try starting with no choke and no prime. The extra fuel will evaporate.
Proper priming makes learning how to start Honda HS720 snow blower much easier. It’s like giving the engine a little head start.
Pulling the Starter Rope
This seems simple, but technique matters. A bad pull can hurt your shoulder or not start the engine.
Stand to the side of the machine, not directly over it. Plant your feet firmly on the ground. You need good balance for a strong pull.
Grip the handle of the starter rope firmly. Do not wrap the rope around your hand. A sudden kickback could injure you.
Pull the rope straight out in a smooth, quick motion. Do not yank it or pull at a sharp angle. Let the rope rewind back into the housing gently.
If the engine doesn’t start on the first pull, repeat the process. Sometimes it takes 2 or 3 pulls when the engine is very cold.
Never let the starter rope snap back uncontrolled. Guide it back with your hand. This protects the rewind mechanism inside.
What to Do After It Starts
Your job isn’t done once the engine fires up. A few steps right after starting protect the machine.
Let the engine run for 30 seconds to a minute on choke. Then slowly move the choke lever to the “Run” position. You should hear the engine speed smooth out.
Allow the engine to warm up for 2-3 minutes before engaging the auger. A warm engine has better power and lubrication. This is a key step after you learn how to start Honda HS720 snow blower.
Check that the auger and chute turn freely. Engage the auger clutch lever for just a second while stationary. Listen for any strange noises.
Adjust the chute direction and pitch before you hit deep snow. It’s easier to do this while you’re still on clear ground.
Now you’re ready to clear snow. Begin at a slow pace to let the machine get up to operating temperature fully.
Common Starting Problems and Fixes
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are common issues and how to solve them fast.
Engine won’t turn over? Check the auger clutch lever. You must hold it down to disengage the auger drive. This is a safety feature on the HS720.
Engine sputters but doesn’t start? Check your choke setting. It might be set wrong for the engine temperature. Also check your primer bulb presses.
No sound at all when you pull? Check the engine stop switch. Make sure it’s in the “On” or “Run” position. It’s an easy thing to miss.
Engine starts then dies immediately? The fuel valve might be off. Turn it to the “On” position. Also check for very old gas in the tank.
According to the Consumer Reports product guides, most small engine problems come from stale fuel or incorrect controls. Always check the simple things first.
If you’ve checked all this and it still won’t start, you might have a spark plug issue. This is less common but can happen after long storage.
Tips for Easy Cold Weather Starts
Starting any engine in the cold is harder. These tips make it easier on you and your snow blower.
Store your Honda HS720 in a shed or garage if you can. An engine that’s a bit warmer will start much easier. Even a cover helps.
Use a fuel stabilizer if you store gas over the season. This keeps the gas from breaking down. It prevents gunk in the carburetor.
Consider a synthetic blend oil for winter. It flows better in cold temperatures. This reduces drag on the engine when you crank it.
Before your first big storm, do a practice start. Fire up the machine for 5 minutes to make sure it runs. This avoids panic when snow is falling.
Keep the starter rope mechanism clean and dry. Spray a little silicone lubricant on it at season’s start. This keeps the pull smooth.
Learning how to start Honda HS720 snow blower in the cold just takes the right prep. A little effort saves a lot of pulling.
Safety Steps You Must Follow
Safety is the most important part of the process. Never skip these rules.
Always start the machine outdoors. Never in a closed garage or shed. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which is dangerous.
Keep hands and feet away from the auger and chute area. Assume the auger could engage at any time. This is critical when you learn how to start Honda HS720 snow blower.
Do not wear loose clothing, gloves with strings, or long scarves. They can get caught in moving parts very fast.
Clear the area around the snow blower of kids, pets, and debris. You need a clear circle of at least 10 feet when starting.
Read your owner’s manual for model-specific warnings. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that knowing your equipment prevents many accidents.
If you need to check something near the auger, always turn the engine off first. Wait for all parts to stop moving. Better safe than sorry.
Long-Term Storage and Starting
If you store your snow blower for the summer, you need to prep it. This makes next winter’s first start much smoother.
At season’s end, run the engine until the fuel tank is empty. Or, add a fuel stabilizer to a full tank and run it for 5 minutes. This coats the inside of the carburetor.
Change the oil at the end of the season, not the beginning. Clean oil sitting in the engine prevents corrosion over the summer.
Remove the spark plug and add a teaspoon of oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter rope slowly a few times to coat the walls. This keeps things from rusting.
Store the machine in a dry place. Cover it with a breathable cover to keep dust off. This is good practice after you learn how to start Honda HS720 snow blower.
When winter comes again, check all fluids first. Install a fresh spark plug if it’s a few years old. Then follow the cold start procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start my Honda HS720 snow blower for the first time each season?
Check the oil and add fresh gas first. Then follow the full cold start procedure with choke and prime. It might take a few extra pulls after long storage.
Why won’t my Honda HS720 start even when I follow the steps?
Check for old gas first. Drain the tank and add fresh fuel. Also check the spark plug connection. It might be loose or dirty.
How many times should I press the primer bulb?
Press it 3 to 5 times for a cold engine. Press it 1 or 2 times for a warm engine. You’ll see fuel move in the clear line.
Do I need to hold the auger clutch when starting?
Yes
