If you live in an area that receives frequent or heavy snowfall, you know that once all the flurries have settled, someone has to clear the driveway and sidewalks.

When a foot or two of fresh snow drops, a good snow blower can quickly become your new BFF.

Perhaps you don’t own a snow blower yet, but you’ve been thinking about purchasing one. After all, the very thought of breaking out the snow shovel is causing a slight twinge in your back.

Mike, aka FlyingHDsod, from our Community Forums would like to offer you some advice on how to choose the right snow blower for your needs — and get you in out of the cold a little sooner.

In the first video he’ll explain the features and benefits of single-stage snow blowers, like the ones from Toro that have easy-start systems that will usually crank after one or two pulls. You’ll also get invaluable tips on how to keep your snow blowers running at peak efficiency, and learn how to check critical equipment parts on your blower for signs of wear.

For bigger jobs, jump ahead to learn more about our two-stage snow blowers.