How to Prevent a Clogged Snow Blower Chute
Updated
by
Juan Velez
A clogged snow blower chute is often a fact of life for those who clean up after every snowstorm. Clogs can occur in the top chute where the snow blows out, or in the auger where the snow first enters the machine. While they are usually not difficult to unclog, you can save yourself a lot of time and energy by taking some simple steps to prevent a clogged snow blower in the first place.
The Cause
A clogged snow blower is caused by ice or sticky snow building up either around your machine;s auger or in the discharge chute and not allowing snow to flow through as it normally would. Particularly icy snow will often cause more frequent clogs than soft, lightweight snow, but they are is always a possibility in any condition. Clogs can also be caused if the machine is not moving forward fast enough. The slower the machine moves, the slower the snow moves through it. And slow-moving snow is more likely to stick to surfaces.
Prevention
One way to prevent snow clogs in your snow blower is to use a non-stick snow blower spray. Like cooking spray, it keeps surfaces slippery and makes it difficult for snow to stick. Simply spray the aerosol liquid on the your snow blower's auger and inside the discharge chute. Non-stick snow blower spray can be found at most hardware stores. You can also use cooking spray or WD-40 as well. Another option is to move faster as you use your snow blower. The faster you move, the faster the snow flows through the machine, and the less likely you are to get clogs.
Unclogging
If you do get a clog while snow blowing, DO NOT attempt to unclog it with your hands or feet. Trust us, you will not like the results. Instead, turn your machine off and wait at least 10 seconds for it to fully stop. Use a broom handle or other long, stiff object to clear the blockage. Most snow blowers come with a tool for unclogging the machine as needed, and some even have a clip to attach it to the machine so it is with you at all times. This is the best way to clear a clog.
Clearing the Chute
