Use a non-stick cooking spray or a silicone-based lubricant – this is what to spray on snow blower chute to keep snow from sticking and clogging up your machine.
I’ve been there. You’re clearing the driveway and suddenly, wet snow jams the chute. The whole thing grinds to a halt. It’s a huge pain and can ruin your morning.
I tested a bunch of sprays on my own snow blower over the last few winters. Some work great, while others are a waste of money. The right spray makes all the difference.
This guide will show you the best options. You’ll learn what to buy, how to use it, and what to avoid. Let’s get your chute clear for good.
What to Spray on Snow Blower Chute: The Best Options
So, what should you actually use? You have a few good choices. Each one has its own pros and cons for your machine.
Non-stick cooking spray is my top pick for most people. It’s cheap, easy to find, and works really well. I keep a can in my garage just for this job.
Silicone spray is another great choice. It lasts a bit longer than cooking spray. It also doesn’t leave a greasy mess that attracts dirt and dust.
Some people use car wax or a paste wax. You rub it on and buff it off. It creates a slick barrier, but it takes more work to apply.
You can also buy sprays made just for snow blowers. These are often silicone-based. They are a good option if you don’t mind spending a little more.
Knowing what to spray on snow blower chute is the first step. The next step is learning why these sprays work so well to stop the snow from sticking.
Why Spraying Your Chute Works
It’s all about creating a slick surface. Wet snow sticks to bare metal or plastic like glue. A spray adds a slippery layer in between.
Think of it like a non-stick pan. Food slides right off the coated surface. Snow acts the same way on a treated chute.
The spray fills in tiny pores and scratches on the chute’s surface. Snow can’t grab onto these rough spots anymore. It just slides right through.
This also protects the metal from rust and corrosion. Moisture from the snow can’t sit on the surface as easily. The National Weather Service notes that wet, heavy snow causes the most issues for equipment.
Using a spray reduces the strain on your machine’s engine. A clogged chute makes the auger work way too hard. A slick chute lets everything flow smoothly.
Now you know the “why.” Let’s talk about the “how long.” How often do you need to apply this stuff to keep it working?
How Often to Spray Your Snow Blower Chute
You don’t need to spray it before every single use. That would be a huge waste of time and product. I follow a simple schedule.
Spray it at the start of the season. Do a full clean and dry of the chute first. Then give it a good, even coating before the first snow.
Reapply after every three or four big storms. Heavy, wet snow wears down the coating faster. Dry, powdery snow is less of a problem.
Always check the chute before a major storm is forecast. If it looks dry or feels rough to the touch, give it another quick spray. It only takes a minute.
If you see snow starting to build up during use, that’s your sign. It’s time for a fresh coat. Don’t wait until you have a full clog.
Figuring out what to spray on snow blower chute is key, but timing matters too. A fresh coating right before a wet snowstorm makes all the difference.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Spray to the Chute
First, make sure the snow blower is off and cool. Safety always comes first. You don’t want to spray near a hot engine.
Clean the chute thoroughly. Use a brush or a dry cloth to get rid of any old snow, ice, or dirt. A clean surface lets the spray stick better.
Shake the spray can well. Hold it about 6 to 8 inches away from the chute surface. You want a light, even mist, not a soaking wet drip.
Spray the entire inside of the discharge chute. Don’t forget the corners and the area where the chute meets the auger housing. These are common clog spots.
Let the spray dry for a few minutes. It doesn’t need long. Some sprays are dry to the touch almost right away.
That’s it. You’re done. This simple process of knowing what to spray on snow blower chute and how to apply it will save you hours of frustration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use WD-40. I see this mistake all the time. WD-40 is a water displacer and penetrant, not a non-stick coating. It will wear off almost instantly.
Avoid using too much spray. A thick, greasy layer is bad. It can attract dirt and grime, which then gums up the chute. A light coat is all you need.
Never spray near the engine’s air intake or exhaust. You don’t want to suck lubricant into the engine. It can cause running problems or even damage.
Don’t forget to clean the chute first. Spraying over caked-on mud or ice is useless. The spray can’t bond to the surface properly.
Avoid spraying in very cold temperatures. Some sprays won’t aerosolize well below freezing. It’s better to do it in a slightly warmer garage if you can.
Knowing what to spray on snow blower chute is half the battle. Avoiding these mistakes is the other half. They can ruin an otherwise good solution.
Best Sprays for Different Snow Types
For wet, heavy snow, use a heavy-duty silicone spray. This sticky snow needs the slickest barrier you can get. Silicone holds up better under this pressure.
For dry, powdery snow, a simple cooking spray works fine. This snow is less likely to stick anyway. You just need a basic non-stick layer.
If you deal with ice pellets or sleet, consider a paste wax. These abrasive materials can scratch off a spray coating. A buffed wax layer is more durable.
For very cold, dry conditions, make sure your spray won’t freeze. Check the can’s label. Some lubricants are rated for sub-zero temperatures.
Having the right spray for your common snow type is smart. It makes the job of deciding what to spray on snow blower chute much easier each season.
DIY vs. Store-Bought Sprays
You can make a DIY spray at home. Some people mix vegetable oil and water in a spray bottle. It’s cheap, but it doesn’t last very long and can go rancid.
Store-bought non-stick cooking spray is still very affordable. It’s designed not to go bad and it sprays evenly. I think it’s worth the couple of dollars.
Silicone spray from the hardware store is a step up. It’s made for machinery and lasts longer. A can will last you for several seasons.
Specialty snow blower sprays are the premium option. They are formulated for this exact job. You pay more, but you get a product that works very well.
For most homeowners, a can of generic cooking spray is perfect. You don’t need fancy stuff. Just knowing what to spray on snow blower chute and doing it consistently is what counts.
Safety Tips and Precautions
Always work in a well-ventilated area. Don’t spray inside your house or a closed shed. The fumes from aerosol cans aren’t good to breathe in.
Wear safety glasses. Spray can bounce off the metal and get in your eyes. It’s a simple step that prevents a lot of pain.
Keep spray away from open flames or sparks. The propellant in aerosol cans is flammable. Let the spray dry completely before starting the engine.
Store the spray can in a cool, dry place. Don’t leave it in the sun or near a heater. Proper storage, as noted by Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines, is important for any aerosol product.
Dispose of empty cans properly. Don’t just throw them in your regular trash. Check your local recycling rules for aerosol containers.
Knowing what to spray on snow blower chute is important, but using it safely is even more critical. A quick job should never lead to an accident.
Other Ways to Prevent Clogs
Spray is your main defense, but it’s not the only one. Keep your snow blower moving at a steady pace. Going too slow lets snow pack in.
Clear deep snow in layers. Don’t try to take a full two-foot drift in one pass. Take a few inches off the top, then come back for more.
Let the machine do the work. Don’t force it into a pile. If the chute sounds clogged, stop and clear it before continuing.
Consider upgrading to a poly or plastic chute if yours is old metal. Newer materials are often more slick by themselves. The OSHA website has general tips on maintaining powered equipment safely.
Spray is the easiest fix, but good technique helps too. Combine knowing what to spray on snow blower chute with smart clearing habits for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to spray on a snow blower chute?
Non-stick cooking spray like Pam is the best for most people. It’s cheap, easy to find, and works great. Silicone spray is a close second for longer-lasting results.
Can I use vegetable oil instead of spray?
You can, but it’s messy. It also doesn’t dry and can get gummy. A spray gives you a much more even and controlled coating.
How often should I reapply the spray?
Spray at the season’s start and after every few big storms. If snow starts sticking again, it’s time for a new coat. A quick touch-up takes less than a minute.
Is it safe to spray the auger too?
No, do not spray the auger or the impeller. Spray only the inside of the discharge chute. Lubricant on moving parts can attract debris and cause damage.
Will the spray damage my plastic chute?
Most non-stick sprays and silicone sprays are safe for plastic. Always check the can’s label to be sure. Do a small test spot first if you’re worried.
What should I spray on snow blower chute for icy conditions?
For icy, wet snow, a heavy-duty silicone spray is your best bet. It creates a stronger barrier against that sticky, slushy mix that causes the worst clogs.
Conclusion
So, what to spray on snow blower chute? Grab a can of non-stick cooking spray or silicone lubricant. These are your best and easiest options.
Spray it on a clean, dry chute at the start of winter. Give it a fresh coat every few storms. This simple habit stops clogs before they start.
You’ll save time and frustration. Your snow blower will work better and last longer. Try it before the next big snowfall and see the difference for yourself.
