Top-Rated Snow Blower For Wet Snow: Preventing Clogging

Wet snow is notoriously difficult to clear because of its heavy, sticky nature. Unlike light, powdery snow, wet snow clumps and tends to clog the auger and chute of many snow blowers, causing frustration and inefficiency during snow removal. If you live in a region prone to heavy, wet snowfall, selecting a snow blower designed to handle these conditions is critical for a smooth, hassle-free winter.

This actionable guide explores the best snow blowers for wet snow and offers practical tips to prevent clogging, ensuring your snow clearing tasks are done effectively and efficiently.

Understanding Wet Snow and Why It Causes Clogging

Wet snow has a higher moisture content than dry snow, making it heavier and stickier. When you try to clear wet snow with a standard snow blower:

• The snow can compact inside the auger housing.
• It sticks to the chute walls, blocking discharge.
• The heavy snow increases strain on the motor or engine.
• The blower may stall or slow down, requiring frequent stops to clear jams.

Because of this, snow blowers designed for wet snow emphasize power, auger design, and efficient chute clearing mechanisms.

Key Features to Look For in a Snow Blower for Wet Snow

When shopping for a snow blower that excels in wet snow, consider these crucial features:

1. Powerful Engine or Motor

Wet snow is heavy and requires strong mechanical force to break up and throw it clear. Gas-powered two-stage or three-stage snow blowers with engines above 200cc typically offer enough torque to handle wet snow efficiently. High-voltage battery-powered models with robust motors can also perform well for moderate wet snow.

2. Auger Design

• Two-stage and three-stage blowers have an auger that collects snow and an impeller that propels it out, reducing clogging.
• Look for augers made with durable, non-stick materials or designs that minimize snow buildup.
• Some models use augers with serrated edges or paddles to better break up and feed wet snow into the impeller.

3. Wide and Adjustable Discharge Chute

• A wider chute allows for better snow flow, reducing the chance of buildup.
• Adjustable chute direction and deflector angles help you control where the heavy wet snow is thrown, preventing backflow or clogging.

4. Heated Handles or Chute

• Some advanced models offer chute heating elements that prevent snow and ice buildup inside the chute.
• Heated handles provide operator comfort but don't directly prevent clogging.

5. Anti-Clogging Features

• Auger housing with a smooth, tapered interior prevents snow from sticking.
• Chute clean-out tools or ports make it easier to clear blockages.
• Impeller speed control allows you to adjust throwing power to match snow conditions.

6. Self-Propelled Drive System

• Wet snow is heavier, so a self-propelled system with multiple speeds reduces operator fatigue and improves control on slippery surfaces.

Top-Rated Snow Blowers for Wet Snow in 2025

1. Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO (Two-Stage)

• Engine: 306cc Ariens AX engine
• Clearing width: 28 inches
• Key features: Heavy-duty auger with serrated edges, durable steel construction, wide discharge chute, and self-propelled drive.
• Why it's good for wet snow: Powerful engine and aggressive auger design reduce clogging, and the wide chute efficiently throws heavy, wet snow.

2. Honda HSS928AATD (Two-Stage Track Drive)

• Engine: 270cc Honda GX270 engine
• Clearing width: 28 inches
• Key features: Track drive for superior traction, large auger with serrated edges, electric start, and wide adjustable chute.
• Why it's good for wet snow: The tracked drive ensures stable operation in slippery, wet conditions, and the robust auger reduces clogging.

3. Toro Power Max 826 OXE (Two-Stage)

• Engine: 252cc Toro OHV engine
• Clearing width: 26 inches
• Key features: Power Curve technology for reduced clogging, heavy-duty auger, adjustable chute, and electric start.
• Why it's good for wet snow: Specifically engineered to reduce snow buildup, Power Curve design minimizes clogging by moving wet snow efficiently through the chute.

4. EGO Power+ SNT2102 (Battery-Powered Single-Stage)

• Battery: 56V lithium-ion
• Clearing width: 21 inches
• Key features: Brushless motor with high torque, auger designed for wet snow, variable speed controls, and LED headlights.
• Why it's good for wet snow: Lightweight with excellent torque for wet snow, variable speed gives operator control to prevent jams.

5. Snow Joe Ultra SJ623E (Corded Electric Single-Stage)

• Power: 15-amp motor
• Clearing width: 18 inches
• Key features: High-torque motor, anti-clogging auger design, lightweight frame, and adjustable chute.
• Why it's good for wet snow: Affordable and efficient for light-to-moderate wet snow, with design features that help prevent clogging.

Actionable Tips to Prevent Clogging with Wet Snow

Even the best snow blowers can clog if not used properly. Follow these strategies:

• Clear snow frequently: Don't wait for deep accumulation; clear multiple times during a storm.
• Adjust speed settings: If your snow blower allows, operate at slower speeds when snow is heavy and wet to reduce strain and clogging.
• Keep chute clean: Frequently check and clear the discharge chute using a chute-cleaning tool or stick---never use your hands.
• Use non-stick spray: Apply a silicone-based spray inside the chute and auger housing before use to reduce snow buildup.
• Avoid icy patches: Wet snow combined with ice can create blockages; salt or sand your driveway beforehand.
• Let the snowblower warm up: For gas models, allow the engine to warm up fully to maintain optimal power.
• Throw snow downwind: Aim to discharge snow in the direction of the wind to avoid backflow into the chute.

Final Thoughts

Wet snow is a tough challenge, but with the right snow blower and proper techniques, clogging can be minimized or avoided entirely. Two-stage and three-stage gas-powered models with powerful engines and advanced auger designs lead the pack for heavy, wet snow conditions, while battery-powered options provide quieter, lower-maintenance alternatives for moderate snowfalls.

Invest in a snow blower with anti-clogging features such as serrated augers, wide discharge chutes, and self-propulsion. Combine that with smart snow removal habits---like frequent clearing, speed adjustment, and chute maintenance---and you'll enjoy a safer, more efficient winter.

If you want help selecting a model that fits your specific climate and budget, feel free to ask!