How many snowblowers are injured each year?

The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates that 3,000 persons are treated in emergency rooms in the United States for snow-blower injuries each year. Another study estimated at least 5.3 injuries per 1,000 machines occur annually (5).

Can a snowblower hurt you?

Most snow blower injuries, Dr. Shapiro says, occur on the hands and can range from cuts and lacerations to full-blown amputations. Heavier, wetter snow is more likely to cause injury, he adds, because it’s the type that often causes a blockage in the machine.

How many years do snowblowers last?

Average lifespan of an average snowblower, with average care.. probably 15 to 25 years.. Original quality and level of care are the two most important factors.. the same model can last 10 or 50 years, depending on how its cared for..

Can snow be too high for snowblower?

Generally speaking, any snowblower should be able to handle snow up to the depth of its bucket. Nearly all 2-stage machines should be able to handle 1-foot with ease. Most should be able to handle two feet with ease.. After that, it depends on the individual snowblowers size and strength.

What can you not do with a snowblower?

Snow Blower DON’TS

1. Don’t leave a running snow blower unattended.
2. Don’t clean out the chute or augers with your hands or feet.
3. Don’t point the chute at buildings, cars, or people.
4. Don’t refuel while the engine is on.
5. Don’t start the snow blower in an enclosed area.

Can I use 5w30 in my snowblower?

Snowblowers operate in frigid temperatures, so the most important factor to consider is viscosity. Use motor oil with a low-temperature viscosity rating, such as 5W-30 or 5W-20, to ensure the snowblower starts easily and runs smoothly.

How much does it cost to fix a snowblower?

What a snowblower tuneup costs. The average price for a single-stage snowblower tuneup typically ranges from $60 to $120, while the average for a dual-stage blower usually runs from $80 to $200. Professionals have advanced training that will let them fix mechanical problems discovered.

Can you use a snowblower with 2 inches of snow?

This Old House recommends using a snow blower if there’s at least 2 inches of snow on the ground. Speed is also a factor for snow blowing, according to Consumer Reports. The best practice for clearing snow is to start in the middle of the surface you’re clearing, blowing the snow toward one edge of the driveway.

Can you use a snowblower in heavy wet snow?

Wet, Heavy Snow It doesn’t matter if you’re using a single or two stage snowblower when you’re fighting wet and heavy snow—clogs are likely.

Is it worth having a snowblower?

You may already know how to shovel snow and its pros and cons. There are also advantages and disadvantages to snowblowing, and it may not be worthwhile to buy a snowblower. While some people need a snowblower as shoveling is too physically demanding, others may find shoveling takes less time for the typical driveway.

What’s the difference between SAE 30 and 5W 30?

5w30 is mostly used on cars and trucks. SAE30 is a straight 30 weight oil used on your lawn mower and other 4 cycle outdoor equipment. SAE30 weight oil is rated only at the full operating temp of the engine. This means it is much higher than 30 when cold.

Can I use regular car oil in my snowblower?

Can I use car oil in my snowblower? Yes. Snowblowers, like cars, are 4-cycle engines, so they use the same type of motor oil. Make sure to use a motor oil weight with a low-temperature viscosity rating, such as 5W-30.

What are the dangers of using a snow blower?

Snow Blower Safety Each year, hundreds of thousands of people suffer serious damage to their fingers or hands due to the improper handling of snow blowers. Most commonly, the tips of the fingers need to be amputated, so preventing the injury initially is key. Injuries usually occur when the snow is heavy, wet, or has accumulated several inches.

How many people have been injured by snowblowers?

Protip: Don’t stick your hand in one of these without turning it off first. (AP Photo/The Herald-Palladium, Don Campbell) Since 2003, roughly 9,000 Americans have lost a finger (or two, or three) to a snowblower-related injury, according to estimates derived from Consumer Product Safety Commission data.

How many people die each year from snow shoveling?

Heart-related problems made up only 7% of snow shoveling injuries. However, all deaths due to snow shoveling were caused by heart problems. Adults over 55 were 4.25 times more likely than younger people to have heart-related symptoms while shoveling. Most snow shoveling injuries occurred in adult men.

What kind of injuries can you get from shoveling snow?

Snow shoveling can sometimes lead to bad backs, broken bones, head injuries, and even deadly heart problems.