In the thick of winter, commercial snow removal demands equipment that won’t falter. That’s why finding the best commercial snow shovel—robust, comfortable, and versatile—isn’t just a choice; it’s a necessity for those braving the season’s harshest work. We’ve tested and compared the top shovels, so you can make an informed choice that balances strenuous snow removal with reliability and comfort. Dive in to discover your essential snow blower tool for the winter ahead.
Key Takeaways
- The best commercial snow shovels feature heavy-duty pushers for large areas. They have ergonomic designs to reduce strain and multi-functional shovels for different tasks. All excel in durability, efficiency, and comfort.
- Key features for optimizing commercial snow shovel performance are durable materials (like aluminum and steel for blades, and fiberglass for handles), blade design tailored to specific tasks, and ergonomic handle construction for user comfort and injury prevention.
- Safe snow shoveling involves proper lifting techniques. Take regular breaks and stay hydrated. Be aware of how the weather affects your body. Avoid stimulants to prevent overexertion and health risks.
Top Commercial Snow Shovels
As this year rolls in, the quest for the ultimate snow shovel continues. In this competitive field, manufacturers are constantly innovating to meet the diverse needs of commercial snow clearance. The best snow shovels on the market today are more than just tools; they’re reliable partners in the battle against winter’s relentless downpours. Whether you’re dealing with light flurries or heavy snow, the right shovel in your arsenal can make all the difference.
This year’s top contenders for the best snow shovels are:
- Robust heavy-duty snow pushers, capable of tackling large areas with ease
- Ergonomic snow shovels designed to minimize strain
- Multi-functional snow shovels that adapt to any task
Every category guarantees superior durability, efficiency, and comfort. There’s an ideal snow shovel for every need. Let’s explore the specifics and discover this year’s best snow shovels.
Heavy-Duty Snow Pushers
Heavy-duty snow pushers are essential for clearing heavy snow. They have large blades that move snow quickly and efficiently. This makes them perfect for commercial properties where time and labor matter. Their angled blade design easily pushes or plows snow, ideal for large areas like parking lots and driveways.
The Bully snow shovel features a wide scoop and a straight shaft, increasing its capacity to clear heavy snow. The Snowplow Original Snow Pusher and the Garant Snow Pusher 24 excel in quickly clearing large areas of light, fluffy snow. They move snow efficiently without requiring lifting.
The Suncast SC3250 18-inch Snow Shovel/Pusher Combo is ideal for versatility. It excels at plowing through and lifting snow, crucial for various snow-clearing situations.
Ergonomic Snow Shovels
Ergonomic snow shovels are a breakthrough in design, engineered to provide comfort and reduce the risk of injury during the repetitive motion of snow shoveling. With features like curved handles and multiple grip points, these shovels ensure proper posture and a reduced risk of back strain, making them an essential choice for commercial use where efficiency and worker safety are paramount. Models such as the ErgieShovel, Snow Joe Shovelution, and the True Temper bent handle design each bring unique ergonomic features that contribute to comfort and injury prevention during prolonged snow removal activities.
Ergonomically designed snow shovels offer more than just special features. It’s also about how the user shovels. Using these shovels with both hands and specific pushing techniques is crucial. This approach fully utilizes their ergonomic benefits. The design encourages upright posture and comfortable grips. This improves efficiency and lessens the physical strain on workers. It allows for sustained performance during lengthy snow removal tasks.
Multi-Functional Snow Shovels
In the unpredictable snow removal world, multi-functional snow shovels are essential. They’re like Swiss Army knives for professionals, perfect for pushing and lifting snow. Ideal for various tasks or if you want one tool for everything. Shop for snow shovels now and be ready for anything.
The Suncast SC3250 Combination Snow Shovel/Pusher Combo, celebrated as the best snow shovel, boasts an ergonomic design and excels in plowing, lifting, and tossing snow, making it a versatile tool for any snow scenario, including pushing snow.
The Emsco Group 1199 Bigfoot snow shovel features:
- Simple yet effective design
- Ability to clear snow from stairs and tight spaces with ease
- Optimized for shallow snow depths up to 4 inches
- Can adapt to different snow conditions, from light snow to wet, heavy snow, and even ice.
Their adaptability makes them a wise choice for those who need a versatile tool capable how much snow and of handling the unpredictable nature of winter weather.
Essential Features for Commercial Snow Shovels
Commercial snow shovels must have key features for maximum snow removal efficiency. The ideal shovel combines size, weight, ergonomics, and materials perfectly. For frequent heavy snow movers, lightweight and easy-to-maneuver shovels are crucial. They help prevent fatigue and keep productivity high.
Commercial snow shovels stand out for their durability. Winter’s harsh conditions subject these tools to constant wear and tear. Choosing a good snow shovel is crucial. It’s not just about preference. It’s a strategic decision affecting how long and how well you can clear snow.
Durable Materials
The backbone of any commercial snow shovel is the quality of its materials. Durability is key to preventing frequent replacements and ensuring the shovel withstands the rigors of winter over multiple seasons. The materials used in the scoop and shaft of a snow shovel, such as aluminum, plastic, and fiberglass, are carefully chosen to balance weight and rigidity for optimal performance.
Aluminum and steel are top choices for shovel blades due to their durability and wear resistance in heavy snow. A thick poly scoop can be a great alternative for the blade. Fiberglass handles are favored in commercial settings for their long-lasting durability over many winters. The AMES #12 Aluminum Scoop moves large volumes of snow with its sturdy, lightweight design. Adding a metal wear strip to the blade is wise, protecting the edge and extending the shovel’s lifespan.
Blade Design and Material
The blade is key in snow shovels, crucial for different snow-clearing tasks. Commercial shovels vary in design: plow-style for pushing, square or round nose for scraping, and flat blades for deep snow. Blade width matters too. Wider blades are great for driveways and sidewalks, while narrower ones work best for steps and footpaths.
Round-shaped snow shovel blades are best for pushing snow to clear paths. Flat blades are great for cutting into deep snow piles. Plastic shovels, light and non-stick, are gentle on surfaces like wood decks and pavements. In contrast, metal shovels, made of alloy steel or aluminum, break up hard-packed snow and ice well but must be used carefully to prevent damage.
A well-maintained metal blade, sharpened to a 45-degree angle, ensures efficient snow and ice cutting, with a shiny beveled metal edge indicating a properly sharpened blade.
Handle Construction
The shovel’s handle is more than a mere appendage; it’s the interface between human and tool, dictating comfort, ergonomics, and durability. There are several options for shovel handles, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Fiberglass handles triumph in strength and longevity, being waterproof, resistant to warping, and free from the pitfalls of rust like metal handles, or the maintenance needs of wooden ones.
- Metal handles, often aluminum, offer a lightweight option, though they need care to prevent rust and may feel heavier than alternatives like plastic.
- Plastic handles are maneuverable but susceptible to heat and sun damage.
Consider these factors when choosing the right handle for your shovel.
Ergonomic handles with ridges or cushioned D-grips are favored for their robust grip, which diminishes user fatigue and maintains a solid grip even in freezing temperatures. Telescoping handles provide compact storage and the flexibility to adjust to the user’s height, offering a leverage advantage and reducing back stress. The design variations such as straight, gooseneck, or curved contribute to the ease of use and the ergonomic advantage of the shovel, ensuring the handle length matches the user’s height is vital for preventing back strain and improving the shovel’s ease of use and durability.
Commercial Snow Shovel Accessories
A world of accessories exists beyond the snow shovel, aimed at improving the shoveling experience. Add-ons include ergonomic handles, protective gear, and maintenance tools. These transform a standard shovel into a customized tool for comfort and efficiency. For example, handle attachments significantly reduce strain during snow removal.
The EziMate BackEZ attachment boosts snow shovel ergonomics. It easily attaches to any shovel shaft, enhancing comfort. These innovations make the job easier and extend both the tool’s and user’s capabilities. They ensure snow removal is about smart, sustainable work, not just brute force.
Snow Shovel Attachments
Attachments can change how you shovel snow, making it safer and more efficient. A second handle, like on the Ergieshovel, can cut back strain. It lets the user lift snow with less bending. Ergonomic handles, like the BackEZ EVR-Grip, attach to shovels. They help with ergonomics and lower back pain risk.
Compact and highly durable shovels, like the Voile Telepro Mini Avalanche Shovel, are essential for specific tasks. They are great for emergency snow removal and fit easily in a vehicle. On the other hand, a roof rake, such as the True Temper Telescoping Roof Rake, helps remove snow from roofs. It prevents ice dam formation, especially at the eaves. These tools offer extra functionality and a customized approach to snow clearance. They meet the unique needs of the environment and the user.
Protective Gear
When facing the harsh conditions of winter, protective gear becomes an essential ally. Layered clothing, preferably made from synthetic fibers, provides superior perspiration wicking and helps regulate body temperature during extended periods of snow shoveling. These layers allow individuals to adapt to the varying intensities of work and weather, maintaining a comfortable body temperature throughout the snow removal process.
Proper attire is not just about comfort; it’s a safety measure to prevent hypothermia, a potentially dangerous drop in body temperature that can occur when shoveling snow in cold conditions. Ensuring adequate protection against the elements is crucial when preparing for any snow shoveling task, as it allows you to focus on the job without the distraction of discomfort or the risk of health issues.
Maintenance Tools
The longevity of a snow shovel is greatly influenced by its maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your snow shovel in top condition:
- Use blade sharpeners, such as files, coarse abrasive stones, or handheld grinders, to keep the cutting edge sharp.
- Regularly inspect the blade and handle for any signs of wear or damage.
- Replace any worn or damaged parts, such as blades and handles, to extend the life of the shovel and avoid the need for a complete replacement.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your snow shovel lasts for many winters to come.
Some snow shovels have replaceable blades for easy swaps when damaged. Replacement parts make maintenance cost-effective, extending the shovel’s life. Investing in these parts keeps your shovel in top condition. This reduces frequent replacements and prepares you for every winter.
Safety Tips for Commercial Snow Shoveling
Safety in snow shoveling goes beyond avoiding immediate injuries. It’s about long-term health and productivity. High-quality commercial snow shovels are key to preventing injuries. This leads to cost savings and higher employee productivity. The right tools and safety practices create a more efficient and safer work environment.
We’ll cover essential snow shoveling safety tips in the next sections. These include proper lifting, the importance of breaks, and weather considerations. These guidelines aim to keep you and your team safe and productive during winter.
Proper Lifting Techniques
Lifting heavy snow is a common part of snow removal, and doing it incorrectly can lead to back strain or more serious injuries. To avoid this, it’s essential to maintain a basic lifting stance:
- Bend at the knees, not at the back.
- Keep the shovel close to your body as you lift.
- Stability is key, so stand with feet hip-width apart.
- Lift with your legs bent.
By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of injury while lifting heavy snow.
Warming up before starting to shovel is another critical safety tip. Just like with any physical activity, warm-up exercises such as walking or marching in place prepare the muscles for the task ahead, making them work more efficiently and reducing the risk of injury. A few minutes of preparation can make a significant difference in how your body handles the stress of lifting and moving heavy snow.
Snow Shoveling Breaks
Taking breaks during snow shoveling is crucial for safety. Regular breaks prevent overexertion, reducing the risk of injuries or serious health issues. Like a marathon runner avoids constant sprinting, shoveling snow demands respect for its cardiovascular and muscular challenges.
During breaks, staying hydrated is crucial. Snow shoveling is as strenuous as a workout. Keeping hydrated prevents dehydration in cold temperatures. It’s easy to miss dehydration signs in the cold. Set reminders to take breaks and drink water. This can be a lifesaver during long snow removal sessions.
Weather Considerations
Snow shoveling depends on weather conditions. Knowing how cold affects the body is key for safe snow removal. Cold makes the heart work harder to keep warm, raising heart risk. Shoveling snow adds to this strain. It’s crucial to be aware of your health and limits when doing this.
Avoid stimulants like caffeine or nicotine before shoveling snow. They can raise your heart rate and narrow blood vessels, straining your heart. Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite, especially during breaks. These conditions are serious health risks in snow-clearing activities. Dress right for the cold, take breaks in warm places, and skip stimulants. This is how you stay safe while shoveling snow in cold weather.
How to Choose the Right Commercial Snow Shovel for Your Needs
With the multitude of snow shovels available, choosing the right one for your specific needs can seem daunting. Factors such as the type and amount of snow you’ll be dealing with, the size of the area to be cleared, and the physical capabilities of the user all play into the decision-making process. The weight of fresh snow can vary dramatically, influencing the type of shovel required for efficient snow clearance.
Specialized shovels, such as the Voilé Telepro Mini Avalanche Shovel, are invaluable. They slice through thick snowbanks and clear tight spaces around tires, steps, or narrow city streets. Knowing your specific challenges and required shovel functionality helps you choose the right tool for commercial snow removal tasks.
Case Studies: Commercial Snow Shovels in Action
Real-world examples offer the best insight into how commercial snow shovels perform under various conditions. Through research and hands-on testing each winter since 2013, a wealth of knowledge has been accumulated, showcasing the effectiveness of different snow shovels in action. These case studies are a testament to the importance of choosing the right tool for the job.
Whether it’s a property management team efficiently removing snow and clearing a large parking lot with a heavy-duty snow pusher or a small business owner keeping the sidewalk safe with an ergonomic snow shovel, the right choice in equipment can make all the difference. By understanding the practical applications of these tools, you can better appreciate the value they bring to snow removal efforts.
Summary
As we wrap up this comprehensive guide to the top commercial snow shovels of 2024, we’re reminded of the crucial role these tools play in managing winter’s challenges. From the durable, heavy-duty pushers designed for large-scale snow clearing, to the ergonomic shovels that protect against strain, and the multi-functional models that offer versatility, this roundup has highlighted the importance of selecting the right shovel for your needs.
Remember, investing in quality tools not only enhances efficiency and safety but also contributes to long-term cost savings. As the snow falls, take pride in knowing you’re well-equipped to handle whatever winter throws your way. Your snow shovel isn’t just a tool; it’s a trusted ally against the elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do plastic snow shovels work?
Yes, plastic snow shovels can work well, as long handle because they are designed with a non-stick coating and are resistant to bending or warping. However, there is a potential risk of breakage or snapping.
What can I put on a plastic shovel to keep snow from sticking?
To keep snow from sticking to a plastic shovel, spray both sides with oil-based nonstick cooking spray. This will act as a lubricant and prevent the snow from sticking.
What is the most efficient snow shovel pattern?
The most efficient snow shovel pattern is to shovel a line straight down the driveway to the middle, bisecting the area in two, and then push the snow away from the middle while traveling down the new path. This technique minimizes extra movements and maximizes efficiency.
What’s the best material for a snow shovel blade?
It depends on the task at hand – aluminum and steel are robust and ideal for breaking up hard snow and ice, while plastic blades are lightweight and non-abrasive, suitable for delicate surfaces. and scraping ice
Can ergonomic and commercial snow shovels really help prevent back pain?
Yes, ergonomic commercial snow shovels are designed to promote proper posture and reduce the risk of back strain, making them a smart choice for preventing back pain during snow removal.
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