When winter in eastern Idaho unleashes its full force, burying your driveway, walkways, and business fronts in deep snow, a dependable snow blower becomes an absolute necessity. But getting the best performance out of your machine—especially during heavy snowfalls—takes more than just hitting the start button. As experts in snow removal serving the Rexburg area and beyond (up to 40 miles), we at Snow Monsters know that a combination of technique and maintenance is essential for mastering those deep winter snows.
Here are some key tips to help you remove large amounts of snow efficiently, and keep your snow blower running smoothly all season long.
Preparing for Heavy Snowfall
1. Choose the Right Snow Blower
Before the first big storm hits, ensure you have the right machine for your property’s needs. Single-stage snow blowers are great for light snow and small areas, but when facing heavy, wet snow (a common occurrence in eastern Idaho), a two-stage or three-stage snow blower is your best bet. These more powerful models can handle deeper snowfalls, and are perfect for larger properties with long driveways, parking lots, or larger commercial spaces.
Need help choosing the right snow blower? Snow Monsters can recommend the best snow removal equipment for your needs, or you can call us for professional services when the snow gets too heavy.
2. Adjust the Height Settings
Your snow blower’s height settings are critical during heavy snowfalls. Set it too low, and your machine might get bogged down or clogged. Set your snow blower to a higher clearing height to ensure it handles the deep snow without overworking. This adjustment helps prevent strain on the engine and keeps the blower moving smoothly.
3. Overlap Your Passes
When clearing heavy snow, overlap each pass slightly. This reduces the risk of overloading the auger with too much snow at once. Overlapping ensures that no snow is left behind, so you can avoid going over the same area multiple times—saving time and energy in the long run.
4. Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Resist the temptation to rush through snow removal. With heavy snow, pushing your blower too fast can lead to clogs and reduced performance. Move at a steady pace that allows the machine to efficiently handle the snow. Slower movements give the auger enough time to gather and discharge snow properly.
5. Keep the Chute Clear
Heavy, wet snow tends to clog the chute, reducing the machine’s efficiency. Regularly check the chute for blockages and use a snow-clearing tool to remove any compacted snow or ice. Keeping the chute clear ensures steady snow discharge and prevents downtime.
Snow Blower Maintenance for Peak Winter Performance
Proper maintenance is key to keeping your snow blower in top condition throughout the season. Here are some important maintenance tasks that can extend the life of your equipment and ensure it performs well in even the toughest conditions.
1. Inspect and Replace Belts
Regularly check your snow blower’s belts for signs of wear or stretching. Worn-out belts can severely impact performance, leading to potential breakdowns during crucial snow removal times. Replacing damaged belts in a timely manner can prevent more costly repairs down the road.
2. Change the Oil and Replace Spark Plugs
Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is vital. Change the oil and replace spark plugs as recommended to keep the engine running smoothly. Fresh oil and new spark plugs ensure your snow blower has the power it needs to tackle heavy snow without engine strain.
3. Inspect Skid Shoes and Scraper Bars
Your skid shoes and scraper bar take the brunt of the work as they glide over driveways and sidewalks. If they become worn, it could damage surfaces or hinder the blower’s performance. Inspect these parts regularly and replace them when necessary to maintain efficiency and avoid causing damage to your property.
Let Snow Monsters Handle the Heavy Snow for You!
While maintaining your snow blower is essential for homeowners and small businesses, sometimes the snowfall in eastern Idaho is too much to manage on your own. That’s where Snow Monsters comes in. We offer professional snow blowing services for homes, ranches, and businesses within a 60-mile radius of Rexburg, Idaho—including Idaho Falls, Ammon, St. Anthony, and Sugar City.
Instead of worrying about snowblower upkeep and long hours in the cold, let us handle the heavy snow for you! Our team is equipped with industrial-grade snow removal machines, and we’re on call throughout the winter to keep your property clear and safe.
Schedule Your Snow Removal Service Today!
Snow in eastern Idaho is relentless, but with the right techniques and professional support, you can stay ahead of winter’s worst. Whether you’re preparing your snow blower for personal use or need reliable snow removal for your property, Snow Monsters has you covered. Call us today to schedule your snow removal service and be prepared for whatever winter throws your way!
By choosing the right snow blower, following smart clearing strategies, and keeping up with routine maintenance, you’ll be ready to handle even the heaviest snowfalls this winter. But remember—when the snow gets too much to handle, Snow Monsters is here to help!
