Snow Blower Accessories Worth Adding: A Practical Guide

Your snow blower is a powerful tool, but the right accessories can make it more efficient, durable, and comfortable to use. Some add-ons are essential for certain conditions, while others are nice to have.

This guide breaks down the most common snow blower accessories and explains who benefits most from each, so you can decide which ones are worth the investment.

Protecting Your Investment: Covers and Skid Shoes

Snow blower covers shield your machine from rain, snow, and UV damage when stored outdoors. They prevent rust, cracked plastic, and clogged chutes.

If you don’t have a garage or shed, a cover is a low cost way to extend the life of your blower. Look for a breathable, waterproof cover that fits your model snugly.

Skid shoes (also called scraper shoes) are adjustable wear pads that protect the bottom of the housing and control the clearance between the auger and the ground.

They are especially valuable if you have a gravel driveway, uneven pavement, or a delicate surface like interlocking pavers. Skid shoes prevent the metal housing from scraping and extend the life of the auger.

For more on choosing the right machine for your surface, see our guide on two stage snow blowers and how they handle different terrains.

Tackling Tough Snow: Drift Cutters and Shear Pins

Drift cutters are metal or plastic blades that mount on the sides of the auger housing. They slice through deep, dense snow and break up crusty drifts before they reach the auger, reducing clogging and improving throw distance.

If you live in an area that gets heavy, wet snow or frequent drifts, drift cutters can save you time and frustration. They are most effective on two stage and three stage blowers.

Spare shear pins are a must have for any two stage or three stage snow blower. Shear pins are designed to break if the auger hits a hidden rock or ice chunk, preventing damage to the gearbox.

Always keep a few extras on hand. Without them, a broken pin can halt your clearing mid storm. If you are still deciding between machine types, our article on choosing a snow blower explains the differences in maintenance needs.

Enhancing Visibility and Comfort: LED Lights, Heated Handles, and Cabs

LED lights brighten your path when clearing snow before dawn or after dusk. Many newer models come with built in lights, but aftermarket kits are easy to install.

If you often clear snow in low light conditions, LED lights improve safety and let you see ice patches or obstacles. They are especially useful on larger driveways where darkness can hide hazards.

Heated handles keep your hands warm in subzero temperatures. This accessory is a game changer for anyone who clears snow for long periods or lives in a region where winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing.

People with arthritis or poor circulation will appreciate the added comfort. Heated handles are usually available as aftermarket grips or integrated on higher end models.

Cabs (enclosed cabs or soft sided enclosures) provide full protection from wind, snow, and cold. They are most beneficial for owners of large, ride on snow blowers or those with very long driveways.

A cab turns a cold chore into a tolerable one, but it adds bulk and cost. For most homeowners with walk behind blowers, a good coat and gloves may be enough.

Powering Up: Extra Batteries and Electric Start

Extra batteries are essential for cordless electric snow blowers. If you have a large property or need to clear multiple passes, a single battery charge may not be enough.

Having a second battery lets you swap and keep working without waiting for a recharge. When evaluating battery powered models, consider runtime and the cost of additional batteries.

For a deeper look at battery performance, check our analysis of battery powered snow blowers.

Electric start is a convenience feature on gas snow blowers that lets you turn the engine with the push of a button instead of pulling a cord.

It is especially helpful for older users, anyone with limited upper body strength, or when the engine is cold and hard to start. Electric start adds a bit to the upfront cost, but many find it worth the ease.

If you are comparing gas models, our guide to snow blower costs can help you weigh features against budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a cover for my snow blower?

If you store your snow blower outdoors, a cover is strongly recommended. It protects against moisture, rust, and UV damage. If you store it in a garage or shed, a cover is optional but still helps keep dust off.

Can drift cutters be added to any snow blower?

Most two stage and three stage snow blowers have mounting points for drift cutters. Some single stage models may not support them. Check your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s accessory list before purchasing.

Are LED lights worth it for occasional use?

If you only clear snow during daylight hours, lights may not be necessary. But if you ever find yourself clearing snow in the early morning or evening, even occasional use benefits from improved visibility and safety.

How many shear pins should I keep on hand?

Keep at least two to four spare shear pins. They are inexpensive and small, so storing a few in your garage or tool kit ensures you won’t get stuck mid storm if one breaks.

Is electric start worth the extra cost?

For anyone who struggles with pull starts, lives in a very cold climate, or wants hassle free starting every time, electric start is a worthwhile upgrade. It adds convenience and reliability, especially for gas models used infrequently.

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