The Center for Climate Change Communication reports that over half (56%) of Americans believe extreme weather, like heavy snow, could be a serious problem for their communities in the next 10 years. If you live in a snowy area, you know how tough it can be to clear snow from your driveway or yard. Luckily, if you own an ATV or UTV, removing snow doesn’t have to be hard work. All you need are the right tools and simple tips. You can then use your vehicle to clear snow quickly and safely. Learn easy ways to make residential snow removal faster and easier this winter below.
Use a Snow Plow Attachment for Residential Snow Removal
According to the Federal Highway Admnistration, over 70% of roads in the U.S. are in snowy areas that receive more than 5 inches of snow each year. A snow plow attachment for your ATV or UTV makes clearing snow quick and easy. The blade can be angled to push snow to the side instead of piling it up in the middle.
Choose a strong blade that fits your ATV or UTV. Adjust the blade’s angle to match the area you’re clearing. It’s a great way to make winter driveway maintenance easier.
Keep the blade at the right height to avoid scraping the ground. Go slowly to avoid damaging your driveway or equipment. Make sure everything is working well.
All in all, snow plow attachment is a great way to clear large areas without much effort. Take care of your blade by cleaning and storing it properly after use. These simple steps help it last longer and stay in good condition.
Add Chains to Your Tires
Adding tire chains gives your ATV or UTV better grip on icy or slippery roads. The chains keep your tires from slipping and help you push snow more easily. They’re a simple and affordable way of ensuring snow safety.
Chains prevent tires from spinning out, which can cause accidents. They also help your vehicle move over hills or uneven surfaces. However, use them appropriately to ensure faster and easier snow removal.
Make sure the chains fit your tires correctly. Check that they’re tight before you start clearing snow. Broken or loose chains can be dangerous and make the job harder.
Install a Salt or Sand Spreader
A salt or sand spreader is a great tool to melt ice after plowing. But does it make walkways and driveways safer by stopping ice from forming again? Let’s find out why you would use a salt or sand spreader below:
- Keeps paths safe from ice
- Gives vehicles a better grip on slippery areas
- Saves time by treating ice right after plowing
- Helps prevent accidents caused by hidden ice patches
Spread salt or sand evenly to avoid using too much, which can harm plants or surfaces. Always follow the instructions for loading and using the spreader. Check the equipment before you start to ensure it is working properly.
Use a Snow Blower Attachment
A snow blower attachment works well for heavy or wet snow. It cuts through thick snow and throws it far away, leaving a clear path behind. These attachments are ideal for areas with a lot of snowfall.
Some blowers use various mounting systems, making attaching them to your ATV, tractor, or skid steer easy. They save time and effort by fitting most vehicles quickly. As such, you can start snow shoveling right away.
Always work in straight lines to clear snow evenly. Keep an eye on the blower to ensure it doesn’t get clogged with wet snow. Clean the attachment after use to keep it running smoothly.
Above all, stay safe by keeping your hands and clothing away from moving parts. Stick to the instructions while using and maintaining the attachment. Proper care helps avoid accidents and extends its lifespan.
Set the Proper Blade Height
Adjusting the plow blade height is important to avoid damaging your driveway. It prevents rocks or debris from being picked up while snow plowing. Here are tips for setting the blade height:
- Raise the blade slightly on bumpy areas
- Check the ground for hidden obstacles before plowing
- Avoid lowering the blade too much, as it can damage your driveway
- Inspect the blade for wear and tear before each use
Using the wrong blade height can harm your vehicle or your clearing surface. So, take your time and work carefully. Also, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Warm Up Your ATV/UTV Before Starting
Let your ATV or UTV warm up fully before you start clearing snow. Preheating ensures the engine and hydraulics work properly, lowering the risk of breakdowns while working.
Warming up can increase engine lifespan by reducing wear from cold starts. However, according to a recent Applied Energy study, more than 30 minutes of heating can increase fuel use and emissions by 26%-37%. To save fuel, warm up your vehicle for a few minutes before you begin.
Always check your vehicle during the warm-up process for leaks or strange sounds. A quick inspection helps avoid problems while plowing. Taking a few minutes to warm up can make snow removal techniques easier and safer.
Use Proper Technique
Using the right technique makes plowing easier and protects your vehicle. Push snow in straight lines and move it to the sides of the driveway or yard. Avoid piling snow in one spot, as it can create problems later.
For deep snow, start with light passes to remove the top layers. This reduces strain on the plow and prevents damage to your equipment. Work steadily and take breaks if needed to avoid overworking your vehicle.
Lastly, check your surroundings before you begin to avoid hitting obstacles and clear snow early to stop it from piling up too high.
Residential Snow Removal Made Simple and Fast With Eagle Plows
Clearing snow doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right attachments and techniques, your ATV or UTV can help you get the job done quickly and safely. Eagle Plows from HitchDoc Outdoors make residential snow removal easy and reliable.
Don’t let snow slow you down this winter. HitchDoc Outdoors makes Eagle Plows in the USA with strong materials and smart designs built to last. Create a custom plow system for your ATV or UTV to match your needs today.