Ice covered windows, slippery sidewalks, and slushy streets don't make for a very good time. Clear the snow in less time by following the P&P Small Engines Snow Clearing Guide. With the right snow thrower and snow clearing technique, you can make the winter season a little easier on yourself.

 
Using the Right Snow Thrower

One of the easiest ways to decide on the right snow thrower is to evaluate the snowfall in your area. You don't need a big, powerful snow thrower for just a little snow, just like a little single-stage snow thrower won't do much good if you're trying to clear those tricky, three feet high drifts.
 
If your area only receives a light snow, a single-stage thrower will do the job. For medium to large cleanups of heavy snow, invest in a two-stage snow thrower. For extremely wet and heavy snow, we suggest a three-stage snow thrower.
 
Designate the Driveway

When everything's covered in snow, how can you tell where you need to start and stop your snow thrower? We suggest outlining your walkways and driveway with reflector stakes prior to the first heavy snowfall, if possible. By outlining these areas, you can help protect plants and hedge roots.
 
Pick the Pile Up Zone

When snow throwing, you want to make sure you're not allowing the snow to build up on the foundation walls or sides of your home. If snow ends up in those areas, it can melt, refreeze, and previous cracks have the potential to widen. In a worst case scenario, these cracks can open wide enough to let water seep into the walls of your home, causing unnecessary water damage and rotting wood.