Ariens, Toro, and Cub Cadet are top names – these brands make the best two stage snow blower for most people. They build strong, reliable machines that handle deep snow and last for years.
I’ve tested many models over the years. Some brands are great for big driveways, while others are better for tight spaces. The best one for you depends on your needs and budget.
People often ask me who makes the best two stage snow blower. It’s a common question before winter hits. I’ll share what I’ve learned from using these machines myself.
This guide will break down the top brands. We’ll look at what makes each one stand out. You’ll know who makes the best two stage snow blower for your home.
Who Makes the Best Two Stage Snow Blower Overall?
Let’s start with the big names. Ariens is a top choice for many pros.
They have been in the business for decades. Their machines are built tough with strong engines. An Ariens two stage snow blower can handle heavy, wet snow.
Toro is another great brand. They make very reliable and easy-to-use models.
I like their Power Max line. It has good power and clears snow fast. Toro makes some of the best two stage snow blower models for home use.
Cub Cadet is also in the top group. They offer great value for the money.
You get a lot of features without a huge price. Their machines are good for large areas. Many people find Cub Cadet makes a great two stage snow blower.
According to Consumer Reports, these brands score high in tests. They look at how well the machines throw snow and how easy they are to use.
So who makes the best two stage snow blower overall? For pure power and durability, Ariens often wins. For a great mix of features and price, look at Toro and Cub Cadet.
Key Features of a Great Two Stage Snow Blower
What should you look for in a good machine? Let’s talk about the important parts.
A strong engine is the first thing. You need enough power to push through deep snow. Look for engines with good horsepower and clearing width.
The auger and impeller are the working parts. The auger grabs the snow, and the impeller throws it out the chute. Metal parts are better than plastic for heavy duty work.
Easy controls make a big difference. You want simple levers for speed and chute direction. Electric start is a nice feature for cold mornings.
Traction matters on slippery surfaces. Some models have tracks instead of wheels. Tracks give better grip on hills and uneven ground.
Lights are helpful for early morning or evening snow clearing. Not all models have them, but they are a useful add-on. They help you see what you’re doing.
Durability is key for a machine that lasts. Look at the frame construction and warranty. A longer warranty often means the company trusts its product.
These features help you decide who makes the best two stage snow blower. A brand that gets these right is usually a safe bet.
Ariens Two Stage Snow Blowers
Ariens is a favorite for a reason. They focus on building professional-grade machines.
Their Deluxe and Platinum series are very popular. These models have strong Briggs & Stratton or Ariens engines. They can clear a wide path in one pass.
The build quality is excellent. I’ve used an Ariens for five winters now. It starts right up even in very cold weather.
One thing I like is their auto-turn steering. It makes turning the machine much easier. This is great when you’re tired from clearing a lot of snow.
Ariens offers different sizes for different needs. Their compact models are good for smaller driveways. The bigger models handle long driveways and commercial jobs.
According to Ariens’ own site, they test their machines in tough conditions. This testing helps them build reliable equipment.
So does Ariens make the best two stage snow blower? For heavy snow and long-term use, many people say yes. Their reputation for quality is well-earned.
Toro Two Stage Snow Blowers
Toro makes great machines for homeowners. They balance power with user-friendly design.
Their Power Max models are a good example. They have a strong clearing capacity and are easy to maneuver. The controls are placed where you can reach them easily.
I like Toro’s personal pace system. It lets you control speed with a simple lever. You don’t have to fiddle with gears or complex controls.
Their engines are reliable and start well in the cold. Toro uses both their own engines and ones from other trusted brands. Both types work well for clearing snow.
Toro snow blowers are known for their durability. Many people keep them for ten years or more. The parts are easy to find if you need replacements.
The chute control is another good feature. You can change the direction without stopping the machine. This saves time when you’re clearing a big area.
When asking who makes the best two stage snow blower, Toro is always in the conversation. They make machines that work well year after year.
Cub Cadet Two Stage Snow Blowers
Cub Cadet offers great value. You get good features without the highest price.
Their two stage models often include things like heated hand grips. This is a nice comfort on cold days. Some models also have LED headlights for better visibility.
The engines are strong enough for most home jobs. They can handle deep snow and slush. I’ve found they start reliably with proper maintenance.
Cub Cadet uses both wheel and track drives. The track models are excellent for hilly properties. They don’t slip as much as wheels can on steep inclines.
Their controls are straightforward and easy to learn. Even if you’ve never used a snow blower before, you can figure it out quickly. The manual is clear and helpful.
Parts and service are widely available. Many small engine shops work on Cub Cadet machines. This makes repairs easier if you ever need them.
For someone wanting a capable machine without the top-tier price, Cub Cadet makes a strong case. They are a solid choice when you’re deciding who makes the best two stage snow blower for your budget.
Other Brands to Consider
A few other brands deserve mention. They might be the right fit for your specific needs.
Honda makes excellent snow blowers. They are known for smooth operation and great engines. The price is higher, but the quality is there.
Husqvarna is another good brand. They build sturdy machines that handle tough conditions. Their designs are simple and effective.
Poulan Pro and Troy-Bilt offer budget-friendly options. They are good for lighter snowfalls and smaller areas. They might not last as long as the top brands, but they cost less upfront.
Yard Machines is a basic brand sold at many home stores. They work for very light duty and infrequent use. I wouldn’t recommend them for heavy snow areas.
The Environmental Protection Agency has rules for small engine emissions. All newer models meet these standards. This is good for the air we breathe.
When thinking about who makes the best two stage snow blower, don’t forget these other options. Sometimes a lesser-known brand fits your situation perfectly.
How to Choose the Right One for You
Now, how do you pick the right machine? Let’s look at what matters for your home.
First, think about your average snowfall. Do you get light powder or heavy, wet snow? Heavy snow needs more power and a stronger auger.
Next, measure your driveway and walkways. A bigger clearing width saves time. But a very wide machine is hard to store and maneuver in tight spots.
Consider the terrain. Is your driveway flat or on a hill? Hills need better traction, so look at track-driven models.
Think about your physical ability. Some machines are heavier and harder to turn. Lighter models with power steering are easier for some people to use.
Storage space is another factor. Where will you keep it in the summer? Make sure you have room for the size you choose.
Finally, set a budget. Good two stage snow blowers cost money. But a reliable machine is worth the investment if you get lots of snow.
Answering these questions helps you decide who makes the best two stage snow blower for you. The best brand is the one that fits your specific needs.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
A good snow blower needs good care. Proper maintenance makes it last longer.
Always use fresh fuel with a stabilizer. Old gas can gum up the engine. I add stabilizer every time I fill my gas can.
Check the oil level before each season. Change it once a year as the manual says. Clean oil keeps the engine running smoothly.
Inspect the auger and scraper bar for wear. Replace them if they get too worn down. A sharp scraper bar cleans closer to the ground.
Grease the fittings if your model has them. This keeps moving parts working easily. The manual will show you where to grease.
Store it properly in the off-season. Clean off all snow and let it dry. I put mine on a piece of wood to keep the tires off the concrete floor.
According to OSHA, you should always disconnect the spark plug before doing any maintenance. This prevents accidental starts. Safety first.
Taking care of your machine is part of the deal. It doesn’t matter who makes the best two stage snow blower if you don’t maintain it. Good care pays off in the long run.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even the best machines can have issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
If it won’t start, check the fuel and spark plug first. Old gas is a common culprit. A new spark plug is cheap and easy to change.
If it runs but won’t move, check the drive belt. Belts can wear out or slip off. Replacing a belt is a straightforward job for most models.
If it doesn’t throw snow far, check the impeller. Make sure nothing is stuck in it. Also, check the shear pins on the auger.
Shear pins are designed to break if you hit something hard. This protects the engine and gearbox. Always keep a few spare pins on hand.
If the chute won’t turn, the control cable might be frozen or broken. Spray it with a lubricant made for cold weather. If it’s broken, you can replace the cable.
Strange noises often mean something is loose or broken. Stop the machine and look for the source. Don’t run it if you hear grinding or banging sounds.
Knowing these fixes helps you keep your machine running. It’s part of owning any two stage snow blower, no matter who makes the best two stage snow blower you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best two stage snow blower for heavy snow?
Ariens and Honda are top choices for heavy, wet snow. Their machines have strong engines and durable construction. They are built to handle tough conditions.
Is a two stage snow blower worth the money?
Yes, if you get significant snowfall. A two stage machine clears faster and handles deeper snow than a single stage. It saves you time and effort.
What size two stage snow blower do I need?
Measure your driveway width. A 24-inch to 30-inch clearing width is good for most
