Snowblower starters are tools that allow you to start even a gas-powered snow blower electrically. These are convenient snow blower accessories that solve a common problem users face in using gas powered snow blowers, which are complained about because they are hard to start.
The usual manual recoil start requires more effort than necessary and usually takes several tries before you can get the machine running. You haven’t even started blowing snow yet, but just starting the machine can already tire you out.
The solution to this common complaint is an electric starter kit, which allows you to connect your gas engine to a power supply and use electricity to get it running. Once the machine is up and running, you can disconnect the electric starter from the power supply and drive your gas snowblower away for a snow blowing session.
Electric starters use a simple button that you just have to press to get the machine started. Of course, it is much easier to push a button than to yank a recoil cord. Some snow blower models already come packaged with electric starters, while some are not.
If your snow blower does not have a starter kit, you can buy a kit separately if one is available for your snow blower brand and model. These additional accessories are worth the extra bucks because they make operating your snow blower way easier. Some machines, however, come with both: recoil as standard and electric start as backup. Electric starters may be used with two cycle and four cycle engines as long as you choose the right kit.
The invention of electric starters was an event worthy of celebration, especially among those who use large maintenance machines. Gas powered snow blowers, especially two stage models, are one of those because they have large engines. These easy start buttons are also highly beneficial for older adults who use snow blowers.
The Right Way of Using Snowblower Starters
Extension Cords. To use the electric start button, you need to connect the electric starter to a nearby power supply. If the power outlet is not near enough, you can also use an extension cord. Just make sure to choose one that is freeze-proof and waterproof to avoid any electrical mishaps. Also, make sure to check the gauge of the wire of your extension cord.
The common wire gauges are either 10 or 12 gauge, which is sufficient for most starters. If you use 14 gauge extension cords or smaller, the electric starts will most likely refuse to work at all. Make sure you know your extension cord’s gauge before connecting it to your starter kit. If you connect the kit to the wrong extension cord, one try is more than enough to cause the starter to burn out. As a result, you will need to buy a new starter kit altogether.
Power Supply. Snowblower starters, however, will require a certain level of power for them to work. Most of the time, this is at least 13 amps of power. Make sure your power supply has enough to make the starter work properly.
Circuit Breakers. When shopping for electric starter kits, look for those that are UL listed to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the kits. Also, take note that there is a possibility that using the electric starter may cause your circuit breaker to trip. Since electric starters require at least 13 amps usually and circuit breakers are designed to support up to 15 amps only, this means an electric starter will take up almost all the power capacity of the circuit breaker.
So before using your electric starter, check your circuit breaker’s capacity. If possible, use your starter kit with a 20 amp circuit breaker to avoid the hassle.
Once the kit is connected properly to the right power supply using the right extension cord, you just have to push the button and start clearing snow off your lawn or yard.
Shopping for Electric Starter Kits
If you’re looking for snowblower starters for accessory or replacement, it is highly recommended that you buy from the same manufacturer that produced your snow blower. Several leading snow blower brands offer optional electric starter kits for their gas-powered engines, so you won’t have difficulty finding one.
While some manufacturers allow you to buy by snow blower brand such as Ariens, Toro, or John Deere, you can also look for starters based on your engine brand, such as Tecumseh or Briggs and Stratton. These usually don’t go over $100, so they’re affordable enough, especially considering how much effort and time they can help you save.
