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The Best Snowblowers for Buffalo, NY: Be Ready for Winter's Worst

Nov. 16 2024 Buying Guide By Hamburg Honda

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Buffalo winters are known for their intense snowfalls, courtesy of lake-effect snowstorms that can blanket the city with feet of snow overnight. When heavy snow becomes the norm, a reliable snowblower is a must-have. Whether you need a machine for frequent deep snow or lighter clearing, here’s a guide to the best snowblowers for Buffalo winters, including two standout Honda models that offer excellent performance and durability.

1. Honda HSS1332ATD – Best for Large Areas with Deep Snow

Recommended for: Large driveways and areas that experience frequent, heavy snowfalls.

The Honda HSS1332ATD is a beast when it comes to clearing heavy, wet snow. With a 32-inch clearing width and a powerful two-stage engine, this model can handle even the deepest snowbanks that Buffalo is known for. It’s self-propelled and easy to maneuver, and the electric start ensures you’re ready to go even in frigid temperatures. With an adjustable chute, you can direct the snow exactly where you want it, making it ideal for wide driveways and large properties.

  • Pros: High power, wide clearing path, electric start, adjustable chute.
  • Cons: Higher price, large size might be too much for smaller spaces.

2. Honda HSS928ATD – Best All-Around Honda Model for Buffalo

Recommended for: Homeowners who need a balance of power, maneuverability, and durability.

The Honda HSS928ATD is an excellent all-around snowblower for Buffalo winters. With a 28-inch clearing width and robust two-stage engine, it’s powerful enough to handle heavy snow while being more compact and maneuverable than the HSS1332ATD. This model is a favorite among Buffalo residents who want a reliable, easy-to-use snowblower for clearing driveways and sidewalks after major storms. Like the HSS1332ATD, it features an electric start, adjustable chute, and hydrostatic drive for smooth operation.

  • Pros: Great balance of size and power, easy to maneuver, adjustable chute, electric start.
  • Cons: Slightly less powerful than the HSS1332ATD, may take a bit longer on very large areas.

3. Toro Power Max HD 828 OAE – Best for Efficiency and Anti-Clogging

Recommended for: Buffalo residents needing solid performance with anti-clogging capabilities.

The Toro Power Max HD 828 OAE is a two-stage snowblower that’s built for efficiency. Known for its reliability, this model features Toro's patented Anti-Clogging System (ACS), which helps prevent clogging in heavy, wet snow. With a 28-inch clearing width and excellent maneuverability, it’s great for medium to large driveways. The Quick Stick chute control allows for easy direction changes, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want a durable, user-friendly machine.

  • Pros: Anti-Clogging System, easy to use, good for large areas.
  • Cons: Noisy operation, slightly less power than some high-end Honda models.

4. Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO – Best for Steep Driveways and Slippery Conditions

Recommended for: Homes with steep driveways that require strong traction and extra power.

The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO offers excellent performance on steep and slippery surfaces. Its 28-inch clearing width and powerful two-stage engine make it suitable for Buffalo’s heaviest snowfalls. This model’s auto-turn steering and large wheels provide excellent traction on icy driveways, while its heated handlebars keep your hands warm during cold days. It’s an ideal choice if you have a steep driveway that needs regular clearing.

  • Pros: Heated handlebars, great traction, powerful performance on icy slopes.
  • Cons: Heavy and may be too powerful for smaller driveways.

5. Cub Cadet 2X 26 HP – Best Mid-Range Option

Recommended for: Homeowners looking for reliable performance without a premium price.

The Cub Cadet 2X 26 HP is a solid mid-range option for Buffalo winters. It provides a 26-inch clearing width and a powerful two-stage engine, making it a great choice for medium-sized properties. This snowblower is packed with features like LED headlights, heated grips, and a push-button electric start, providing a great balance of performance and convenience without breaking the bank.

  • Pros: Good price-performance ratio, electric start, heated grips, LED lights.
  • Cons: Not as powerful as higher-end models, can struggle with extremely deep snow.

6. Honda HS720AS – Best for Smaller Areas and Light Snow

Recommended for: Lighter snowfall and smaller areas such as sidewalks or small driveways.

For residents with lighter snow-clearing needs, the Honda HS720AS is a dependable single-stage snowblower that’s lightweight, compact, and budget-friendly. With a 20-inch clearing width, it’s ideal for sidewalks, decks, and small driveways. This snowblower is powered by a Honda engine, providing reliable performance in moderate snow up to 12 inches. Plus, it features an electric start and is very easy to maneuver—perfect for city residents who need a compact snowblower for Buffalo’s lighter snowfalls.

  • Pros: Lightweight, easy to store, great for light snow.
  • Cons: Not suitable for heavy or deep snow.

7. Snow Joe iON18SB – Best Eco-Friendly Option for Light Snowfall

Recommended for: Environmentally conscious users with light snow-clearing needs.

The Snow Joe iON18SB is a cordless, battery-powered snowblower for those looking for an eco-friendly option. It’s ideal for smaller areas and light snowfalls, with an 18-inch clearing width and a quiet, low-maintenance design. Its lithium-ion battery provides up to 50 minutes of run time, making it suitable for clearing sidewalks and short driveways after light snowfalls. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for an easy-to-store, environmentally friendly machine for lighter snow duties.

  • Pros: Eco-friendly, quiet operation, lightweight.
  • Cons: Limited power and run time, not suited for heavy snow.

Choosing the Right Snowblower for Buffalo, NY

When deciding on the best snowblower for Buffalo winters, consider your needs based on property size, snow volume, and budget. Here’s a quick recap:

  • For Heavy Snow and Large Areas: The Honda HSS1332ATD is top of the line for Buffalo’s toughest snowfalls, with the Honda HSS928ATD providing a slightly more compact but powerful option.
  • For Medium to Heavy Snow: The Toro Power Max HD 828 OAE and Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO are both excellent choices, offering reliable performance with added features like anti-clogging and great traction.
  • For Lighter Snowfall or Smaller Areas: The Honda HS720AS and Snow Joe iON18SB are easy to maneuver, eco-friendly options for Buffalo residents who face lighter snow.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo’s winters are no joke, but with the right snowblower, you can handle any snowstorm that comes your way. At Hamburg Honda, we offer a selection of top-quality snowblowers, including Honda models that are built to tackle Buffalo’s heaviest snowfalls. Don’t forget to visit our Winter Open House on November 22-23 to see these snowblowers in action, enjoy special deals, and prepare your home for winter!

Ready to find your perfect snowblower? Visit Hamburg Honda for expert advice and exclusive winter equipment offers.