Snow plowing can be a rewarding and lucrative activity, especially in regions that experience heavy snowfall. Whether you’re looking to clear your own driveway, help out neighbors, or even start a small snow removal business, understanding the basics is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plow snow safely and effectively, even if you’re a complete beginner.
Understanding Your Equipment
Before you even think about hitting the snow, it’s essential to understand the equipment you’ll be using. This includes the plow itself, the vehicle it’s attached to, and any necessary safety gear.
Choosing the Right Plow
The first step is selecting the right plow for your needs. Plows come in various sizes and materials, each designed for specific applications. Smaller, lighter plows are suitable for personal use, such as clearing driveways, while larger, heavier plows are better for commercial properties or areas with significant snowfall. Consider the type of vehicle you’ll be using to determine the appropriate plow size and weight. Overloading your vehicle can be dangerous and cause damage.
There are primarily three types of snow plows:
- Straight blade plows: These are the most common and affordable type. They’re versatile and suitable for most residential and light commercial applications.
- V-blade plows: These plows have two blades that meet in the middle, forming a “V” shape. They’re excellent for breaking through deep snow and can be adjusted to scoop snow or push it to the side.
- Wing plows: These plows have an adjustable wing on one or both sides, allowing you to clear a wider path in a single pass. They’re typically used for larger areas and commercial properties.
Think about the usual amount of snow you get and the size of the area you want to plow. Consider steel for durability and heavier snow, while polyethylene (poly) plows are lighter and rust-resistant.
Vehicle Considerations
Not every vehicle is suitable for snow plowing. You’ll need a vehicle with sufficient power, weight, and traction to handle the added stress of pushing snow. Ideally, you should use a truck or SUV with four-wheel drive. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine its maximum towing capacity and whether it’s recommended for snow plowing. Never exceed the recommended weight limits.
Ensure your vehicle is in good working order before the snow season begins. This includes checking the tires, brakes, fluids, and battery. Consider installing heavier-duty suspension components to better handle the weight of the plow.
Essential Safety Gear
Safety should always be your top priority when plowing snow. Wear appropriate clothing, including warm layers, waterproof gloves, and a hat. High-visibility clothing is crucial, especially when plowing near roads or in low-light conditions. Invest in a pair of sturdy, waterproof boots with good traction. It’s also a good idea to carry a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a shovel in your vehicle.
Preparing Your Vehicle and Plow
Once you have the right equipment, it’s time to prepare your vehicle and plow for the snow season. This involves installing the plow, inspecting all components, and performing any necessary maintenance.
Plow Installation
Installing a snow plow can be a complex process, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Most plows come with a mounting system that attaches to the vehicle’s frame. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely and that the plow is properly aligned. If you’re not comfortable installing the plow yourself, it’s best to have it done by a professional.
Pre-Season Inspection
Before the first snowfall, thoroughly inspect your plow for any signs of wear or damage. Check the hydraulic hoses, cylinders, and pump for leaks. Lubricate all moving parts according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Inspect the cutting edge of the plow blade and replace it if necessary. A worn cutting edge will reduce the plow’s effectiveness and can damage the surface you’re plowing. Pay close attention to the lights and wiring on the plow to ensure they are working correctly.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your plow in good working order and prevent costly repairs. After each use, clean the plow thoroughly and remove any snow or ice buildup. Check the hydraulic fluid level and add fluid as needed. Store the plow in a dry place when not in use to prevent rust and corrosion.
Basic Plowing Techniques
Now that you’re prepared with the right equipment and knowledge, it’s time to learn the basic techniques of snow plowing.
Planning Your Route
Before you start plowing, take a few minutes to plan your route. This will help you avoid obstacles, minimize backtracking, and ensure that you’re clearing the snow in the most efficient way possible. Identify any potential hazards, such as parked cars, fire hydrants, or landscaping features. Determine where you want to pile the snow and make sure there’s enough space.
The First Pass
When plowing a driveway, start by making a pass down the center. This will create a clear path for your tires and make it easier to push the remaining snow to the sides. Angle the plow blade to direct the snow to the desired side. Overlap each pass slightly to ensure that you’re not leaving any snow behind.
Subsequent Passes
After the first pass, work your way outwards, pushing the snow towards the edges of the driveway. Avoid pushing too much snow at once, as this can strain your vehicle and make it difficult to control the plow. If the snow is deep, take multiple passes, gradually removing layers of snow.
Dealing with Deep Snow
Plowing deep snow requires a different approach than plowing light snow. Instead of trying to push the entire mass of snow at once, take smaller bites. Angle the plow blade to one side and gradually shave off layers of snow. You may need to make several passes to clear the area completely. Consider using a V-blade plow for deep snow, as it can break through the snow more easily.
Backing Up
Backing up while plowing can be tricky, especially in snowy conditions. Before backing up, make sure the area behind you is clear of obstacles and pedestrians. Use your mirrors and backup camera to guide you. Back up slowly and carefully, making small adjustments as needed.
Advanced Plowing Strategies
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start to explore more advanced plowing strategies to improve your efficiency and effectiveness.
Stacking Snow
Stacking snow involves piling it in a designated area. This is useful when you have limited space or when you need to keep the snow from blocking sidewalks or driveways. To stack snow, angle the plow blade and push the snow into a pile. Gradually build the pile higher, making sure it’s stable and won’t collapse. Avoid stacking snow near buildings or other structures, as the melting snow can cause water damage.
Windrowing
Windrowing involves pushing the snow into a long, narrow pile, or windrow. This technique is often used on roads and parking lots to clear a wide path quickly. To windrow snow, angle the plow blade and push the snow to one side. Continue making passes, overlapping each one slightly, to create a continuous windrow.
Down Pressure
Some plows have a down pressure feature that allows you to apply additional force to the blade. This can be helpful for scraping packed snow or ice from the pavement. Use down pressure sparingly, as it can put extra stress on your vehicle and the plow.
Plowing in Different Conditions
The best plowing techniques can vary depending on the type of snow and weather conditions.
- Wet, heavy snow: This type of snow is difficult to push and can easily overload your vehicle. Take smaller bites and use a V-blade plow if possible.
- Dry, powdery snow: This type of snow is easier to push but can blow around in the wind. Try to plow with the wind to minimize the amount of snow that blows back onto the cleared area.
- Icy conditions: Plowing in icy conditions can be dangerous due to reduced traction. Use caution and drive slowly. Consider using salt or sand to improve traction.
Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount when plowing snow. Here are some important safety considerations to keep in mind.
Visibility
Visibility can be significantly reduced during snowstorms. Make sure your headlights and taillights are working properly. Use extra caution when plowing near roads or intersections. Consider using flashing lights or strobe lights to increase your visibility to other drivers.
Awareness
Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards. Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Avoid plowing near children playing in the snow.
Fatigue
Snow plowing can be physically demanding, especially in cold weather. Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue. Stay hydrated and eat nutritious meals.
Communication
If you’re plowing for others, communicate with them regularly to ensure they’re satisfied with your work. Be responsive to their needs and address any concerns promptly.
Maintaining Your Work Area
Once you’ve cleared the snow, it’s important to maintain the area to prevent ice buildup and ensure the safety of pedestrians and vehicles.
Salting and Sanding
Salting and sanding can help to melt ice and improve traction. Apply salt or sand to sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots after plowing. Use a spreader to distribute the salt or sand evenly.
Ice Dams
Ice dams can form on roofs when snow melts and refreezes at the edge of the roof. This can cause water to back up under the shingles and damage the roof and interior of the building. Remove snow from the roof to prevent ice dams from forming.
Cleanup
After the snow season is over, clean your plow and vehicle thoroughly. Inspect all components for damage and perform any necessary repairs. Store your plow in a dry place to protect it from the elements.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently and safely plow snow, whether you’re clearing your own property or helping others in your community. Remember to prioritize safety, maintain your equipment, and adapt your techniques to the specific conditions. Happy plowing!
What type of plow is best for a beginner?
A straightforward, easy-to-operate plow is ideal for beginners. Consider a lighter-duty, personal-use plow designed for smaller vehicles like ATVs or light trucks. These plows typically feature simple controls, often utilizing a winch or electric actuator for lifting and angling. Straight blade plows are generally easier to master than more complex V-plows or winged plows, offering a good balance between affordability and functionality for residential snow removal.
Another important consideration is the plow’s mounting system. Opt for a quick-attach system that allows for easy installation and removal of the plow when not in use. Look for models that come with clear and concise installation instructions and readily available support in case you encounter any difficulties. Simpler systems minimize the learning curve and allow you to focus on mastering the art of plowing itself.
What safety precautions should I take before plowing snow?
Before you even start the engine, ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check the tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. Make sure your windshield wipers are functioning properly and have plenty of washer fluid. A vehicle in poor condition is a hazard, especially when combined with challenging winter conditions.
Also, familiarize yourself with the area you’ll be plowing. Identify any obstacles, such as mailboxes, fire hydrants, or landscaping features. Clear any loose objects like children’s toys or garden decorations that could be damaged or become projectiles. Wearing appropriate winter gear, including warm clothing, gloves, and boots, is also crucial for your safety and comfort.
How do I properly angle the plow blade?
Angling the plow blade is crucial for efficiently moving snow and preventing it from piling up in front of your vehicle. Generally, angling the blade to one side allows you to push the snow away from the area you’re clearing, creating a clear path and preventing the snow from repeatedly pushing against the vehicle. The angle you choose depends on the amount of snow and the space available.
Experiment with different angles to find what works best for your situation. A shallower angle is often better for light snow or when clearing narrow areas, while a steeper angle is more effective for heavy snow or when you have plenty of space to push the snow away. Remember to adjust the angle as needed to maintain control of your vehicle and prevent the plow from becoming overloaded.
How fast should I drive while plowing?
Plowing snow requires a slow and steady pace. Excessive speed can lead to loss of control, damage to the plow or vehicle, and increased risk of accidents. A speed of 5-10 mph is generally recommended, depending on the snow depth and conditions. It is always better to go slower rather than faster, especially when learning.
Maintaining a consistent speed allows the plow to effectively move the snow without bogging down or causing the vehicle to strain. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking, as these can destabilize the vehicle and cause the plow to lose contact with the ground. Smooth and controlled movements are key to successful and safe snow plowing.
How do I deal with deep or heavy snow?
Deep or heavy snow can be challenging to plow, but with the right technique, it’s manageable. Instead of trying to remove all the snow in one pass, take multiple passes, gradually shaving off layers of snow. This reduces the strain on the plow and vehicle and prevents the plow from becoming overwhelmed.
Another helpful technique is to back drag the snow away from obstacles or buildings before attempting to push it forward. This involves lowering the plow and driving backwards to pull the snow away, creating a clear path for subsequent passes. Adjusting the plow angle to a steeper setting can also help break up heavy snow and make it easier to move.
How often should I plow after a snowfall?
The frequency of plowing depends on the rate of snowfall and the desired level of clearance. Ideally, plowing should be done multiple times during a heavy snowfall to prevent the accumulation of deep snow. Plowing more frequently is easier on both the equipment and operator than dealing with a large accumulation of snow at once.
As a general guideline, aim to plow every few inches of snowfall. This prevents the snow from becoming compacted and icy, making it easier to remove. Waiting until the snow stops falling can result in a much more difficult and time-consuming task. Regular plowing also minimizes the risk of ice buildup and improves overall safety.
What maintenance is required for a snow plow?
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your snow plow operates efficiently and reliably. After each use, thoroughly clean the plow blade and frame to remove any snow, ice, or salt. Salt, in particular, can corrode metal surfaces if left unattended. Lubricate all moving parts, such as hinges and pivots, to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Before the start of each plowing season, inspect the plow for any signs of damage or wear. Check the cutting edge for excessive wear and replace it if necessary. Inspect the hydraulic lines and fittings for leaks and tighten or replace them as needed. Properly storing the plow during the off-season, covered and protected from the elements, will help extend its lifespan.