Introduction: Southwestern Ontario’s Definitive Guide

Feeling trapped by endless snowfall with nothing but a shovel and dwindling patience? It might be time to upgrade to something new—a tractor snow blower that transforms your winter headaches into smooth, clear pathways (and possibly a nice side income).

Snow blowers in Southern Ontario are nearly a necessary part of life (especially after the winter we just had…). Winter doesn’t just bring hot chocolate and holiday cheer; it brings some incredible equipment purchasing opportunities too. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer looking to maximize your tractor’s year-round potential or a homeowner with a compact tractor searching for relief from backbreaking shoveling, a snow blower attachment might be your ticket to winter freedom.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about choosing the perfect tractor snow blower for your needs. I’ll tell you how these attachments work, the benefits they offer, features to look for when shopping, and even how you might turn your investment into a profitable winter business. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be armed with knowledge to make a confident purchase decision.

Ready to transform your winter workflow? 

Understanding Tractor Snow Blowers: The Basics You Need to Know

Before pulling out your credit card, let’s make sure you understand exactly what you’re buying and how it works. A tractor snow blower isn’t just a big box fan. Snow blowers are designed for everything a southern Ontario winter can throw at you (probably).

What Exactly Is a Tractor Snow Blower?

Tractor snow blowers are attachments designed to clear snow efficiently from driveways, sidewalks, farm paths, and other areas. Unlike standalone snow blowers, these powerful tools mount directly to your tractor, converting your existing equipment into a snow-clearing powerhouse.

How Does It Connect to Your Tractor?

These attachments typically connect to either the front or rear PTO (Power Take-Off) of your tractor. The connection system varies by model, but most use standard three-point hitches or quick-attach systems designed for your specific tractor make and model.

Power Source: Your Tractor Does the Heavy Lifting

One of the biggest advantages of tractor snow blowers is that they don’t need their own engine, or you to push it. Instead, they use the existing power of your tractor through the PTO system. This means you’re getting snow removal capability without investing in a separate powered machine.

The Mechanics: How Snow Gets Moved

At their core, all snow blowers use an auger system—essentially a rotating spiral blade—to collect and move snow. Depending on the model you choose, your snow blower will fall into one of two categories:

Single-Stage Snow Blowers

In a single-stage system, the auger does double duty—it both collects the snow and propels it through the discharge chute. These tend to be simpler, less expensive, and perfect for lighter snowfall areas.

Two-Stage Snow Blowers

Two-stage systems add an impeller (think of it as a powerful fan) behind the auger. The auger gathers the snow, and then the impeller launches it out through the chute. This design provides greater throwing distance and superior performance in heavy, wet snow—ideal if you’re tackling serious winter weather.

Size Matters: Clearing Width and Depth

Tractor snow blowers come in various sizes to match different tractors and workloads. Typical clearing widths range from compact 48-inch models to massive 10-foot commercial units. The right size depends on the scale of your snow removal needs and the horsepower of your tractor.

Directional Control: Pointing Snow Where You Want It

Nearly all modern tractor snow blowers feature adjustable chutes that let you control exactly where the discharged snow lands. Many premium models offer hydraulic controls that allow you to adjust the chute direction and angle without leaving your tractor seat—a feature you’ll appreciate when temperatures plummet.

7 Game-Changing Benefits of Using a Tractor Snow Blower

If you’re on the fence about investing in a tractor snow blower, these benefits might just push you over the edge. When winter strikes with full force, you’ll be glad you made the investment.

1. Efficient for Large Areas

Nothing beats a tractor snow blower when it comes to clearing large spaces quickly. With clearing widths often double or triple that of walk-behind units, you’ll finish the job in a fraction of the time. What might take hours with a handheld blower or shovel can be completed in minutes.

2. Handles Heavy Snow

Your tractor’s substantial power gives these attachments the ability to cut through deep, compacted snow that would stop lesser machines in their tracks. Even those intimidating plow-created berms at the end of your driveway won’t stand a chance against a quality tractor snow blower.

3. Wide Coverage Reduces Passes and Time

With clearing widths ranging from 4 to 10 feet, you’ll make fewer passes to clear the same area. Fewer passes mean less time spent in the cold, less fuel consumed, and less wear on your equipment—a win all around.

4. Put Snow Where You Want (Or Need) It

The adjustable discharge chute gives you complete control over where the snow lands. Need to avoid certain areas like freshly shoveled walkways or delicate landscaping? Or turn your flat yard into the ultimate sledding hill? Simply adjust your chute direction and throw distance accordingly.

5. Stay Comfortable While Getting the Job Done

Perhaps the most appreciated benefit is staying warm inside your tractor cab (if you have one) while the attachment does the hard work. No more freezing fingers, aching back, or wind-chapped face—you’ll be comfortable regardless of the weather conditions outside.

6. Lower Physical Strain, Higher Productivity

Snow removal is notoriously hard on your body. The twisting, lifting, and pushing can lead to injuries and exhaustion. Shovelling can actaully be dangerous for your heart. Snow shoveling can be hazardous to your heart | American Heart Association With a tractor snow blower, the machine handles the physical work while you simply steer—keeping you healthier and more productive all season long.

7. Turn Winter Into a Profit Center

For farmers, contractors, or enterprising individuals, a tractor snow blower opens up lucrative commercial snow removal opportunities. When fields are dormant or construction slows in winter months, snow removal services can provide a valuable income stream. Many owners report recouping their investment in just one or two seasons of commercial work.

Features to Consider When Buying Your Tractor Snow Blower

Ready to make your purchase? Here’s your checklist of essential features to evaluate before making your final decision.

Tractor Compatibility: The Foundation of a Good Match

Before anything else, confirm that the snow blower you’re eyeing is compatible with your specific tractor model. Consider:

• Horsepower Requirements: Most manufacturers specify the minimum horsepower needed. Don’t cut it close—having extra power provides better performance & fuel efficiency.
• PTO Type and Speed: Ensure your tractor’s PTO matches the snow blower’s requirements, typically 540 or 1000 RPM.
• Mounting System: Verify the attachment method works with your tractor’s configuration—whether it’s a three-point hitch, front mount, or loader attachment.

Size Selection: Finding Your Sweet Spot

Choosing the right size involves balancing several factors:

• Clearing Width: Match this to the areas you’ll be clearing. Narrow driveways might only need 48-60 inches, while parking lots could require 72+ inches.
• Snow Depth Capacity: Consider your region’s typical snowfall depth. Models designed for deeper snow will be taller.
• Tractor Power Match: Ensure your tractor has the horsepower to run the size you choose well.

Construction Quality: Built to Last Through Harsh Winters

Snow removal is punishing work for any equipment. Look for:

• Heavy-Gauge Steel Construction: The main housing should be thick enough to withstand impacts from hidden obstacles.
• Reinforced Cutting Edge: This takes the brunt of the work and should be replaceable when worn.
• Quality Gearbox: Look for cast iron construction and sealed bearings that can handle the torque.
• Protected Drive Components: Chains and shear pins should be properly shielded from snow and ice buildup.

Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage: Matching Your Snow Conditions

If you’re clearing snow every storm, which happens quite often around Ontario, you need to make sure you have the right blower for the area you’re clearing.

• Single-Stage: More affordable and sufficient for frequent passes with lighter, drier snow up to about 8 inches deep.
• Two-Stage: Worth the additional investment for areas that receive wet, heavy snow or regular accumulations exceeding 10 inches.

Control Systems: Ease of Operation Matters

The best snow blower is one you can operate comfortably:

• Hydraulic Controls: Premium models offer hydraulic chute rotation and deflector adjustment from inside your cab.
• Manual Controls: More affordable but require stopping to make adjustments.
• Remote Electric Controls: A middle-ground option that allows adjustments without hydraulics.

Additional Features Worth Considering

These extras can make a significant difference in performance:

• Skid Shoes: Adjustable height controls to prevent scraping on gravel or uneven surfaces.
• Drift Cutters: Side extensions that help funnel taller snow drifts into the auger.
• Serrated Auger: More effective at breaking up compacted or icy snow.
• Chute Extension: Provides greater throwing distance for better snow placement.

Maintenance Requirements: Counting the Long-term Costs

Factor in ongoing care when calculating the true cost of ownership:

• Lubrication Points: Fewer grease fittings generally mean easier maintenance.
• Part Availability: Choose brands with readily available replacement parts.
• Seasonal Storage Needs: Consider space requirements and preparation procedures.

Going Commercial: What You Need for Professional Snow Removal

If you’re considering offering snow removal services to generate extra income, your equipment needs go beyond basic functionality. Here’s what to prioritize for commercial operations.

Commercial-Grade Construction is Non-Negotiable

When customers are counting on you, equipment failure isn’t an option:

• Heavy-Duty Components: Look for commercial models with reinforced augers and housings.
• Industrial Gearboxes: These should be designed for continuous operation over many hours.
• Hydraulic Drive Systems: These provide better control and durability than mechanical drives for heavy use.

Efficiency Features Save Precious Time

In commercial snow removal, time truly is money:

• Maximum Clearing Width: The wider the better for commercial applications—look for 72 inches or more.
• High-Volume Capacity: Two-stage designs with large impellers move more snow faster.
• Quick-Change Attachments: Systems that allow rapid switching between plowing and blowing save valuable time between jobs.

Visibility and Safety Become Critical

When working in residential areas or busy commercial properties:

• Enhanced Lighting: Consider adding auxiliary lighting to improve visibility in pre-dawn or evening hours.
• Safety Markers: Flags or reflectors on the edges of your equipment help prevent damaging property boundaries hidden under snow.
• Clean Discharge Pattern: Commercial models should throw snow with precision to avoid hitting buildings, vehicles, or pedestrians.

Supplemental Equipment for Complete Service

Offer more value (and increase your revenue) with complementary services:

• Salt/Sand Spreaders: A rear-mounted spreader can provide ice control immediately after snow removal.
• Push Blades: Some situations call for plowing rather than blowing—having both options increases your versatility.
• Commercial Liability Insurance: Not equipment per se, but absolutely essential when providing services to others.

Marketing Your Snow Removal Service

Once you’ve invested in quality equipment, make sure potential customers know about your services:

• Create Simple Service Packages: Offer tiered options based on driveway/lot size and service frequency.
• Develop Seasonal Contracts: These provide guaranteed income and customer commitment.
• Highlight Your Equipment Advantage: Emphasize the thoroughness and cleanliness of snow blower removal versus traditional plowing.

best Tractor Snow Blowers

The best tractor snow blowers in our humble (but admittedly biased) opinion are:

1. Normand Snow Blowers: For larger areas, commercial use, and long stretches of roads.
2. MK Martin Snow Blowers: For individual use, some commercial use, and large properties.
3. Used snow blowers can be a cost effective alternative for many people.

Granted, there are many options on the market, but we chooses to sell these because they work well and have good value for the cost.

Conclusion: Making Your Final Decision

Armed with this knowledge, you’re now ready to select the perfect tractor snow blower for your specific needs. Remember that the right choice depends on your unique combination of tractor specifications, property characteristics, typical snowfall patterns, and budget constraints.

While quality snow blowers represent a significant investment, they can transform your winter experience from a dreaded chore to a quick, even satisfying task. And for those with an entrepreneurial spirit, your tractor snow blower might just become one of your most profitable equipment purchases, creating a steady income stream during otherwise slow winter months.

When winter arrives and the first heavy snow blankets your property, you’ll appreciate the confidence that comes from knowing you’re fully prepared to clear it quickly and effectively. No more waiting for plowing services or exhausting yourself with manual shoveling.