December 2025 EnergyWiseSM Tip: Blown Away
December 2025 EnergyWiseSM Tip: Blown Away
By: Energy Efficiency Program Manager Cory Fuehrer
Is this the winter you finally have had enough of shoveling now? Data analyzed by the Center for Injury Research and Policy found that annually, snow shoveling leads to about 100 deaths and 11,500 emergency room visits in the U.S. Of those treated for injuries, about 15% resulted from the shovel itself.
Maybe it’s time to consider an electric snowblower? Cordless, battery-electric blowers can clear paths up to 24 inches wide through as much as 20 inches of snow. Unlike their gas-powered counterparts, they require very little maintenance, run relatively quietly, are usually lighter and start with just a push of a button. When it comes to one of the quickest, least labor-intensive ways to dig out after a big snowstorm, they are hard to beat. Also, consider the following additional advantages:
Single-Stage and Two-Stage
Electric snowblowers are available in both single-stage and two-stage models. Single-stage units are lighter and easy to maneuver. They use a single auger to both scoop and discharge snow and are best suited for light to moderate snowfalls. Two-stage snowblowers have an additional impeller, which helps throw the snow further while handling heavier snow more effectively.
Power Source
Unlike their underpowered, corded predecessors, most electric snowblowers today run off rechargeable batteries for about 30 to 45 minutes on a single charge, which is about how long a tank of gasoline powers a gas snowblower. Operating time can be extended with multiple batteries.
Compact and Easy to Store
Electric snowblowers take up significantly less space, making them ideal for garages with limited storage space.
Maintenance
Unlike gas-powered units that require oil changes, tune-ups and gasoline stabilization or draining for extended periods of storage, electric units require almost no maintenance. To keep an electric snowblower running season after season, simply store the charger and batteries indoors when they aren’t being charged or used. Since batteries do not hold the same amount of charge when the temperature drops below freezing, storing and charging them indoors ensures the greatest run time. Both electric and gas snowblowers last around 10 years with proper care and maintenance. However, electric snowblowers require much less effort to maintain.
Cost
Gasoline-powered snowblowers usually have a higher purchase price, as well as fuel and maintenance costs when compared to electric snowblowers. This is especially true when evaluating smaller or single-stage units.
Your local public power provider, in partnership with Nebraska Public Power District, also offers EnergyWiseSM incentives to their customers who purchase an electric snowblower. Contact them or visit www.energywisenebraska.com for more details.
