Winter – a season of serene landscapes blanketed in snow, but with that beauty comes the daunting task of snow removal. As someone who has battled the winter blues and backaches from shoveling, I found solace in the Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded 12Amp Snow Shovel. In this review, I’ll share my journey with this powerful snow-clearing companion, providing insights into its features, benefits, and a touch of real user experiences.
Things to Consider Before Investing in a Snow Shovel
Before delving into the specifics of the Earthwise SN70016, let’s consider the broader context of snow removal. The ideal customer for a snow shovel is someone who values efficiency, ease of use, and a reliable solution for clearing snow from driveways, sidewalks, and outdoor spaces. If you live in an area with occasional snowfall and prefer a hassle-free alternative to traditional shoveling, a snow shovel like the SN70016 could be a game-changer.
However, if you reside in an area with heavy and frequent snowfall, where deeper snow accumulations are common, you might want to explore more robust options like gas-powered snow blowers. The Earthwise SN70016 is designed for light to moderate snow removal, making it perfect for those who want a quick and efficient solution without the maintenance requirements of gas-powered alternatives.
Consider the size of the area you need to clear, the average snowfall in your region, and your physical capabilities. The SN70016 is an excellent choice for smaller to medium-sized properties with occasional snowfall, providing a balance of power and maneuverability.
Presenting the Earthwise SN70016 Snow Shovel
The Earthwise SN70016 boasts a 12-amp motor, offering the power equivalent to a gas-powered snow thrower. With a 16″ snow clearing width, 8″ snow cleaning depth, and the ability to move up to 430 lbs of snow in just one minute, this electric snow shovel means business. Its features include 6″ rear wheels for easy maneuverability, an adjustable support handle for user comfort, and a dual-curved auger blade for efficient snow removal.
Pros:
- Strong Motor: The 12-amp motor operates at high speed, throwing snow far away with impressive force.
- Lightweight: Despite its power, the unit is reasonably lightweight, aided by two supporting wheels, making it easy to move between surfaces and positions.
- Affordable Replacement Parts: Earthwise offers affordable replacement parts, ensuring that maintenance won’t break the bank.
- Price: With a mid-80s price tag, the SN70016 provides an attractive and affordable solution for snow removal needs.
Cons:
- Plastic Auger: The rigid, brittle plastic nature of the auger raises concerns about durability, especially when encountering debris or frozen objects.
- Parts Price in Comparison: Replacement parts, while affordable individually, can accumulate to more than half the cost of the entire unit, prompting a consideration of whether it’s worth replacing parts or investing in a new unit.
Features & Benefits of the Earthwise SN70016
1. Powerful 12-Amp Motor
The heart of the SN70016 lies in its 12-amp motor, a robust powerhouse that operates at high speed, efficiently clearing snow with the aggression needed for winter chores. This motor, while strong, also contributes to the unit’s overall lightweight design.
Benefits:
- Efficient Snow Removal: The high-speed motor allows the snow shovel to clear up to 430 lbs of snow in just one minute, providing a quick and effective solution for snow-covered surfaces.
- Lightweight Maneuverability: The powerful motor doesn’t compromise the unit’s weight, making it easy to move and transport between different areas.
2. 16″ Snow Clearing Width
With a snow clearing width of 16 inches, the SN70016 covers a substantial area in each pass. This width is ideal for smaller to medium-sized properties, ensuring efficient snow removal without excessive manual effort.
Benefits:
- Time-Efficient: The 16″ clearing width allows for swift snow removal, reducing the time and effort required to clear driveways, sidewalks, and other outdoor spaces.
- Suitable for Residential Use: Designed for light to moderate snowfall, the width is well-suited for residential properties with occasional snow accumulation.
3. Adjustable Support Handle
The SN70016 is equipped with an adjustable support handle, providing users with the flexibility to customize the handle height without the need for additional tools. This feature enhances user comfort during snow clearing activities.
Benefits:
- Ergonomic Design: The adjustable handle allows users to find the most comfortable position, reducing strain and fatigue during extended use.
- User-Friendly: The easy-to-adjust handle accommodates users of varying heights, promoting a personalized and enjoyable snow clearing experience.
4. 6″ Rear Wheels
Facilitating easy maneuverability, the SN70016 is equipped with 6″ rear wheels. These wheels play a crucial role in balancing the weight of the unit and ensuring smooth movement over different surfaces.
Benefits:
- Enhanced Mobility: The rear wheels contribute to the overall lightweight design, making it effortless to move the snow shovel over snowy surfaces.
- Stability: The two supporting wheels provide stability during operation, allowing users to navigate through layers of snow with ease.
5. Dual-Curved Auger Blade
At the forefront of snow removal efficiency is the dual-curved auger blade. This component enables the SN70016 to cut through snow up to 16″ wide and 8″ deep, ensuring a thorough clearing process.
Benefits:
- Effective Snow Cutting: The dual-curved auger blade efficiently cuts through snow, providing a wide clearing path with each pass.
- Throwing Distance: Capable of throwing snow up to 30 feet, this auger blade ensures that cleared snow is deposited at a considerable distance, preventing immediate reaccumulation.
6. Thermal Protection
Ensuring the safety and longevity of the unit, the SN70016 features thermal protection. This protective mechanism prevents the motor from overheating during prolonged use, enhancing the overall reliability of the snow shovel.
Benefits:
- Motor Longevity: Thermal protection safeguards the motor from overheating, extending its lifespan and ensuring consistent performance over time.
- User Safety: The inclusion of thermal protection prioritizes user safety by preventing potential damage to the motor due to excessive heat.
User Reviews: Real Experiences with the Earthwise SN70016
Review 1:
I recently acquired the 16″ power shovel, and it exceeded my expectations during a real test case of 3″ of snow with a hard glaze of ice. Assembling the unit was straightforward, taking about 20 minutes. While the provided manual could be more user-friendly, it didn’t pose a significant challenge.
The unit performed flawlessly, effortlessly throwing snow far away with a powerful, aggressive throw. Clearing a wooden deck covered in 3″ of snow was a breeze, and the two midsize wheels provided stability. However, the unit’s sensitivity to uneven surfaces presented a minor challenge on my wooden deck. Adjusting the tilt or maintaining a tilt throughout resolved this issue.
Pros:
- Very strong motor with an aggressive snow throw.
- Lightweight design with helpful supporting wheels.
- Affordable replacement parts available.
- Attractive mid-80s price tag.
Cons:
- Concerns about the durability of the plastic auger.
- Replacement parts’ cost in comparison to the unit may make it more economical to buy a new one.
Review 2:
Having used the SN70016 twice on 2-3 inches of snow, I found it to be a convenient and back-friendly alternative to shoveling. It takes a bit of practice to maneuver, requiring a switch to gloves with better grip. The snow throw is fast and aggressive, requiring careful direction. Assembling it with the help of a YouTube video was a smooth process.
Update: The machine performed admirably on 4-6 inches of snow, proving its effectiveness even in heavier snowfall. While the cord can be cumbersome, and grippy gloves are necessary, the SN70016 stands out as a reliable snow-clearing beast.
Conclusion: Embrace Effortless Snow Removal
In conclusion, the Earthwise SN70016 Electric Corded 12Amp Snow Shovel stands as a reliable ally in the battle against winter’s icy grip. With its powerful motor, efficient snow clearing width, and thoughtful features like adjustable handle support and thermal protection, it caters to the needs of users seeking a convenient and effective snow removal solution.
While concerns about the plastic auger’s durability and the cost of replacement parts may linger, the SN70016’s overall performance, user-friendly design, and attractive price point make it a keeper for those dealing with light to moderate snowfall. Embrace the winter season without the backaches and struggles – let the SN70016 do the heavy lifting for you. Click here to explore the Earthwise SN70016 and bid farewell to winter woes.