Testing SKIL's 20" Snow Blower Kit

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Post on Jan 07, 2025

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Testing SKIL's 20" Snow Blower Kit: A Winter Warrior's Tale

So, you’re staring out the window at a blizzard that looks like it’s trying to swallow your house whole. The driveway's a frozen wasteland, and you’re contemplating a life of blissful snow-bound hibernation. But wait! You've got a new toy: the SKIL 20" Snow Blower Kit. Let's see if this little guy lives up to the hype, shall we?

First Impressions: Unboxing the Beast (or, a Rather Friendly Beast)

Unboxing the SKIL 20" snow blower felt less like a Herculean task and more like assembling a slightly more complex IKEA bookshelf. (Okay, maybe that's a little dramatic, but you get the picture.) The instructions were clear, the parts were well-labeled, and the whole process took about 20 minutes. No missing bolts! A small victory, my friends, a small victory.

Aesthetics: Form Meets…Well, Function

Let's be honest, it's not going to win any design awards. This isn't a sleek, Italian sports car of snow-removal machines. It's practical, sturdy, and gets the job done. The bright orange is...well, it's orange. Visible, certainly, which is helpful when you’re battling a blizzard that’s trying its best to obscure everything.

Power and Performance: The Heart of the Matter

This is where things get interesting. The SKIL 20" boasts a 13-amp motor, which, on paper, sounds pretty impressive. In reality, it’s a solid performer for smaller to medium-sized driveways. I wouldn't recommend tackling a snowdrift the size of Mount Everest with it, but for everyday winter maintenance, it’s a champion.

The Test: Snow Day Showdown!

My first real test came with a surprise 6-inch snowfall. Now, that’s not a blizzard, but it was enough to make my driveway look like a scene from Frozen. I fired up the SKIL 20", and let me tell you, it handled the fluffy stuff with surprising ease. The 20-inch clearing width made short work of the path.

Dealing with the Icy Menace: A Different Story

The real challenge came when a layer of ice formed underneath the fresh snow. Here, the SKIL 20" struggled a bit. The auger did its best, but the ice proved to be a tougher opponent. I had to make multiple passes, and it required a bit more effort. This highlighted a crucial point: This snow blower excels at fresh snow, but battling packed ice is a more demanding task, even for more powerful machines.

Ergonomics: A Comfortable Experience (Mostly)

The controls are straightforward and easy to use. The chute rotation is smooth, and the speed control is responsive. However, after about 30 minutes of continuous use, my back started to ache a little. The handle design could be improved for longer durations of operation. It's certainly not a deal-breaker, but an ergonomic upgrade would be a welcome addition.

Assembly and Maintenance: Simple and Straightforward

As mentioned earlier, assembly was a breeze. Maintenance is also relatively straightforward; cleaning the auger is a simple task, and the machine is generally easy to maintain.

Value for Money: A Solid Investment?

Considering its price point, the SKIL 20" Snow Blower Kit offers excellent value. It's a reliable machine for homeowners with smaller to medium-sized driveways. It may not be suitable for heavy-duty snow removal or extensive ice clearing, but for typical winter maintenance, it punches well above its weight.

The Verdict: A Worthy Winter Ally

The SKIL 20" isn't a miracle worker, but it’s a reliable and efficient snow blower for those who need a capable machine without breaking the bank. It excels at clearing fresh snow, and while it struggles with packed ice, that's a challenge for almost all electric snow blowers in its class.

Durability: Built to Last?

Only time will tell, but the initial build quality seems promising. The materials feel robust, and the overall construction appears durable enough for several winters of use. Further testing will be needed for a definitive answer.

Noise Level: A Surprisingly Quiet Operator

One unexpected positive: it’s surprisingly quiet compared to some of its gas-powered counterparts. This is a definite plus for those who appreciate a bit of peace and quiet, even during a snowstorm.

Ease of Storage: Compact and Convenient

Its compact design makes storage relatively easy, a big plus for those with limited space. It’s significantly easier to store than a larger gas-powered model.

Customer Support: The Unsung Hero

I haven't had to contact customer support yet, but online reviews suggest a generally positive experience.

Features and Specifications: A Deep Dive

For detailed specifications and features, be sure to check the manufacturer's website.

Alternative Options: Considering the Competition

While the SKIL 20" offers great value, researching alternative options in the same price range is always recommended.

Long-Term Performance: The Ultimate Test

Long-term performance will be the true measure of this machine's durability. I'll update this review after a full winter's worth of use.

Conclusion: A Winter Helper, Not a Wonder Worker

The SKIL 20" Snow Blower Kit is a solid choice for homeowners who need a reliable and affordable way to clear their driveways of fresh snow. It’s not a professional-grade machine, but it’s more than capable of handling typical winter conditions. Remember, it's a tool, not a magic wand. Use it wisely, and it'll serve you well.

FAQs:

1. Can the SKIL 20" handle deep snow? While capable, it performs best in moderate snowfall. Deep, packed snow may require multiple passes or even a more powerful machine.

2. How long does the battery last? This is a corded electric model; it doesn’t use a battery. You’ll need a readily available power source.

3. What type of maintenance does it require? Regular cleaning of the auger and occasional lubrication are recommended. Consult the owner's manual for specific instructions.

4. Is it suitable for steep inclines? While it can manage gentle slopes, avoid using it on steep inclines to prevent accidents and damage to the machine.

5. What is the warranty on the SKIL 20"? Check the manufacturer's website or the packaging for the specific warranty details. Warranty periods can vary.