Sell it, donate it, or scrap it – these are the best things to do with an old snow blower that still has some life left. If it’s totally broken, recycling the metal is a great choice.
That old machine is taking up space in your garage. You got a new one, or maybe you moved south. So now you’re stuck with it.
I’ve been in this spot before. I had an ancient two-stage blower that just wouldn’t quit, but I needed an upgrade. Figuring out what to do with old snow blower equipment felt like a chore.
This guide will walk you through all your choices. We’ll look at the good and bad of each path so you can pick the right one for you.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower That Still Works
First, let’s talk about a machine that still runs. This gives you the most options by far.
You can make some cash back. Even an older model has value to the right person. A neighbor might want a backup machine.
Think about selling it locally. Sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist are perfect for this. List it with clear photos and an honest description of any issues.
Price it fairly. Check what similar models are selling for online. Don’t expect to get what you paid for it ten years ago.
Be ready to answer questions. People will ask how old it is and if it starts easily. Tell them the truth to avoid problems later.
Another great thing to do with old snow blower equipment is to donate it. Charities like Habitat for Humanity ReStore often take working tools. This can also be a tax write-off for you.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower for Parts
Maybe the engine is shot, but the auger is fine. A broken machine isn’t always worthless.
Parting it out can be smart. Someone else might need that exact carburetor or wheel. Online forums for your brand are a good place to list parts.
This takes more time than selling it whole. You need to remove the parts safely and store them. But you might make more money in the end.
Check with small engine repair shops. They sometimes buy old machines for parts inventory. It’s worth a quick phone call to ask.
You could also keep some parts for yourself. If you have a similar model, having spare shear pins or a belt on hand is handy. This is a practical thing to do with old snow blower parts.
Just make sure you know what you’re doing. Taking apart a snow blower can be tricky. Have the right tools and a clean workspace.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower by Donating It
Donating is a feel-good option. Your old machine helps someone else.
Look for local vocational schools. Their small engine repair programs need practice units. Students get real hands-on experience.
Community gardens or churches might want it. They often clear their own parking lots. A free, working snow blower is a big help to them.
Call ahead before you load it up. Make sure the place can actually use it. Ask if they have someone who can do basic maintenance.
Get a receipt for your donation. This is important for your taxes. The receipt should list the item and its estimated fair market value.
Remember to clean it up first. Give it a quick wipe-down. It shows respect for the person or group receiving it.
This is one of the most rewarding paths. You clear your space and help your community at the same time.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower by Scrapping It
When the machine is truly dead, scrapping is the answer. You’re basically recycling it for cash.
Find a local scrap metal yard. Call them first to ask about their process. Some will take the whole unit, others want you to remove the gas and oil.
You must drain all fluids. This is very important. Gas and oil are hazardous and the yard won’t accept them.
Use a pan to catch the old gas. Dispose of it properly at a hazardous waste facility. Your town likely has a drop-off day for this.
The main value is in the steel. An average two-stage blower has a good amount of metal. You won’t get rich, but you’ll get a few bucks.
Bring some tools. You might need to take off the plastic housing to get to the good metal. The engine block itself is heavy and valuable.
This is a final, but useful, thing to do with old snow blower metal. It keeps it out of the landfill.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower for Creative Reuse
Are you a bit handy? You can turn that old blower into something new.
The engine might power a different tool. I’ve seen people make log splitters or pressure washers from old small engines. It takes skill, but it’s possible.
The auger and chute can become yard art. Think about a unique garden planter or sculpture. This is a fun weekend project.
The wheels are often in good shape. They can be used on a homemade cart or trailer. Good heavy-duty wheels aren’t cheap to buy new.
Search online for ideas. Sites like Pinterest have tons of “upcycling” projects. You might find the perfect plan for your specific model.
This option isn’t for everyone. It needs time, space, and some tools. But if you enjoy making things, it’s a great challenge.
You give the machine a second life. You also get a cool conversation piece for your garage or garden.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower at the Curb
Putting it on the curb with a “FREE” sign is the easiest method. It requires almost no effort from you.
This works best in neighborhoods with foot traffic. People see it and might take it for parts. It could be gone in an hour.
Check your local rules first. Some towns have laws against leaving large items on the curb. You don’t want a fine.
Make sure it’s safe. Remove the spark plug wire so no one can start it. This prevents any accidents.
If it’s not gone in a day or two, you need a backup plan. You can’t just leave it there forever. Have a scrap yard’s number ready.
I’ve done this with an old lawn mower. It was gone before I finished my coffee. It’s surprising what people will pick up.
This is a zero-cost, zero-hassle thing to do with old snow blower equipment. It’s worth a try before you pay to dispose of it.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower Through Retailer Take-Back
Some stores will take your old machine when you buy a new one. This is called a trade-in or take-back program.
Ask at the store where you’re shopping. Big box stores and local dealers sometimes offer this. It’s a convenient service for you.
They might give you a small discount. It’s not usually a lot of money. The real value is in the free removal.
The store handles all the disposal. They have contracts with recyclers. You don’t have to worry about draining fluids or hauling it.
This is perfect if you lack a truck or trailer. It’s also good if the machine is very heavy or stuck in a tight spot in your garage.
Call ahead to confirm the details. Make sure they’ll take your specific model and condition. Don’t just assume they will.
It’s a stress-free solution. You get your new blower and they take the problem off your hands the same day.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower by Giving It to Family
Think about your family or friends first. A younger family member buying their first house might need it.
Ask around at the next holiday gathering. Just mention you have an old blower to give away. You might be surprised who speaks up.
Be honest about its condition. Tell them what works and what doesn’t. Don’t give your nephew a project he can’t handle.
Include any manuals or spare parts you have. This makes it a more complete gift. It shows you really want to help them out.
Help them load it if you can. Not everyone has a vehicle that can carry a snow blower. Offering your truck for the move is a nice touch.
This keeps the machine in the “family.” You might even get to see it in action at their place. That’s a nice feeling.
Giving it away is a generous thing to do with old snow blower gear. It strengthens bonds and solves your problem.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower for Hazardous Waste
Safety is the most important part. You must handle gas and oil the right way.
Never dump old gas on the ground or down a drain. It pollutes soil and water. It’s also illegal in most places.
Your town has a hazardous waste collection program. Check their website for dates and locations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has guides on proper disposal.
Drain the gas tank completely. Use a siphon pump or let it drain out the fuel line. Do this outside where there’s plenty of fresh air.
Drain the engine oil too. There’s a drain plug on the bottom of the engine. Have a drain pan ready to catch it.
Take these fluids to the collection site. They will process them safely. This is the responsible thing to do with old snow blower fluids.
Once the fluids are out, the rest is much safer to handle. You can then scrap the metal frame without worry.
What to Do With Old Snow Blower – Making the Final Choice
So how do you pick the best option? Look at your own situation.
Do you need money or space more? Selling or scrapping gets you a little cash. Donating or giving away clears space fast.
How much time do you have? Posting an ad online takes time. Putting it on the curb takes two minutes.
What’s the machine’s condition? A runner has many paths. A parts-only machine has fewer, but still good, options.
Think about your tools and skills. Do you feel safe removing an engine? If not, choose a simpler path like retailer take-back.
Your local area matters a lot. A rural area might have a scrap yard close by. A city might have strict bulk pickup rules.
Weigh the pros and cons for your life. The best thing to do with old snow blower equipment is the one that works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest thing to do with an old snow blower?
The easiest thing is the curb with a “FREE” sign. It requires almost no work from you. Just check your local rules first.
Can I get money for an old, broken snow blower?
Yes, you can. Scrap metal yards pay for the steel and aluminum. You can also sell individual parts online to people who need them for repairs.
What should I do with old snow blower gas?
Take it to a hazardous waste collection site. Do not pour it out. Your local government website will tell you where and when to drop it off.
Will stores take my old snow blower?
Some will, especially if you buy a new one from them. Always call and ask first. They may offer a small discount or just free haul-away.
Is it hard to part out a snow blower?
It can be
