Snow Equipment Frequently Asked Questions
Snow Equipment FAQ
Before storing the machine in the off season, charge or discharge (by operating the machine) the batteries to between 40% and 60%.
Battery life (or battery capacity) is shortened when batteries are charged to 100% before storage.
A 50% charge is the optimal charge for ensuring maximum battery life. Storing batteries at this percentage will greatly reduces parasitic reactions; these reactions can cause inefficiencies to build up over time and reduce the amount of energy that the cell can store and output.
The temperature that the batteries are stored at will affect their long-term life. Storage for long periods of time at extreme temperatures will reduce the battery life (or battery capacity). Store the machine in a cool location (not below freezing) for optimal battery life.
From 12 parked cars up to 48 parked cars (depending on the model).
Not a shovel. The Snowmaster series single stage snowblowers are the best option. Light and self propelled.
Potato, potato.
Potato.
Covers, poly skid shoes, drift cutters.
The size of drive way and the strength/age of operator is very important when choosing the right snowblower.
Come into WPE Landscape Equipment and speak to one of our trained professional sales team. They will guide you to the unit that best suits your needs.
- Winged/extendable plows give you a wider scoop making it a better option for parking lots.
- V plows are good for cutting through snow on long laneways or driveways.
The Power Broom is excellent for sidewalk/pathway clearing; cleans right down to the surface.
A tracked snowblower is better for areas with heavier snowfalls. Tracks provide excellent traction.
- Gas usually has more power and can run all day.
- Battery blowers have almost no maintenance, and they are easy to turn on and off.
- Single stage snowblowers usually have rubber paddles which clean right down to the pavement/concrete.
- Two stage snowblowers have a second auger throwing the snow at a high speed. The throwing distance is further with the two stage snowblower than with the single stage.
- 3 stage snowblowers are only on Cub Cadet snowblowers. These snowblowers have a front auger ‘drilling’ into the snow.
Salt works quickly to lower the freezing point of ice so that it melts into a liquid. Unlike sand, salt is easier to clean up as it dissolves in water and is drained away by the melted ice and snow. One disadvantage to rock salt, however, is its ineffectiveness when temperatures are 15 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
- Pros – low maintenance, easy to operate, easy to store, no oil changes or fuel going bad.
- Cons – batteries can be pricey, multiple batteries needed for longer run times, usually not as powerful.
Snow Service FAQ
There can be a number of reasons why your snowblower will not start. The spark plug could be fouled; Carburetor might not be letting fuel get through; Old fuel.
Tire pressure could be low or one tire could be lower than the other. If it’s a geared snowblower, wheel or gear could be stripped. If it’s a self propelled snowblower, cables could need adjustment.
If it’s a single stage snowblower the paddles & scraper bar could be worn and, therefore, not making proper contact with ground. If it’s a dual stage snowblower, height adjustment could be off.
A shear pin could be broken. Auger gear or bearings could be worn out.
Your snowblower should be stored in a shed or garage during the off season. Fuel should be drained and tank filled (to avoid condensation) with Aspen or Moto-mix depending on the application.
Gas powered snowblowers can handle any area. Battery or rechargeable snowblowers can handle approximately 9-12 parking spaces depending on the type of battery and the wetness of the snow.
Gas powered snow blowers are typically pull start. Electric start is also available with access to power outlet on some models. Rechargeable units are easy; drop in the battery and go!
There are a number of reasons why your snowblower might not start. It could be lack of maintenance or lack of fuel prime; it could be the order in which you are doing the steps; or it could be that the safety features are not engaged or working correctly.
The best way to maintain your snowblower is to bring it in to WPE for annual service inspections! 😊
