CAT CLASS: HQ-10629

Up to 22 in Walk-Behind Snow Blower

Walk-behind snow blowers up to 22 inches clearing width are single-stage machines designed for walkways, decks, and car-length driveways in light, dry snow. These compact units use a single auger to collect and discharge snow in one motion, making them well-suited to small residential areas with infrequent or shallow accumulation. For larger driveways or heavier snow conditions, the 22–28 inch band offers two-stage capability and greater throwing distance.

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Models

Brands

Cat classes

Pick a size class — capacity and reach differ across the range.

Key specifications

Specification	Typical range	What it means
Clearing Width	10–21 in (25.4–53.3 cm)	Single-pass width; multiple passes required for standard two-car driveways
Stage	Single-stage	Auger contacts the pavement and throws snow directly; less effective in wet or deep snow
Power Type	Electric (corded or battery)	Common in this size class; some gas models available at the upper end of the band

How to choose

This size class is appropriate for clearing walkways, steps, decks, and single-car driveways in regions with light, powdery snow accumulations typically under 6 inches. Single-stage design limits performance in wet, heavy, or compacted snow. For longer driveways, accumulations exceeding 8 inches, or consistent wet snow, the 22–28 in Walk-Behind Snow Blower band provides two-stage capability, self-propulsion, and greater throwing distance. No smaller walk-behind size class exists; hand shoveling remains the alternative for narrower paths or very light snow.

What this size handles

Clearing a 20-foot residential walkway after a 4-inch snowfall
Removing light snow from a front porch or deck
Single-car driveway with total area under 400 square feet
Clearing steps and entryways at small commercial storefronts
Maintaining sidewalks in regions with frequent light, dry snow
Apartment building walkways and small access paths

Safety & operation

Single-stage augers contact pavement and can pick up gravel, sticks, or debris; avoid use on loose-surface driveways
Discharge chutes throw snow at high velocity; maintain clear zone ahead and avoid directing output toward people, vehicles, or windows
Corded electric models present trip hazards and require outdoor-rated extension cords; never use in standing water
Store fuel-powered units with stabilized gasoline or empty tanks to prevent carburetor clogging during off-season

Transport & logistics

Compact dimensions allow transport in most SUVs, minivans, or pickup truck beds without a trailer
Electric models typically weigh 30–60 lb; manual lifting into vehicles is common
Gas models at the upper end of the band may require two-person lifting or a loading ramp

Power & supply

Corded electric models require 120V outlet within extension cord range; GFCI protection recommended for outdoor circuits
Battery-powered models operate on manufacturer-specific lithium-ion packs; runtime typically 30–45 minutes per charge
Gas-powered units in this band use small four-cycle or two-cycle engines requiring gasoline and periodic oil changes

Frequently asked

What is the difference between single-stage and two-stage snow blowers?

Single-stage machines use one auger that contacts the ground to collect and throw snow in a single motion, limiting them to lighter, dry snow on paved surfaces. Two-stage units, found in the 22–28 inch and larger bands, add an impeller behind the auger for greater throwing distance and handle heavier, wetter snow without the auger touching pavement.

Can machines in this size class clear a standard two-car driveway?

A 20-foot-wide, 40-foot-long two-car driveway requires multiple overlapping passes with a 10–21 inch clearing width, making the task time-intensive. For driveways exceeding 400 square feet or frequent use, the 22–28 inch band offers faster coverage and self-propelled drive systems.

Are electric models in this band suitable for wet or heavy snow?

Electric single-stage models are designed for light, dry snow; wet or heavy accumulations overload the motor and clog the chute. Gas-powered units in the upper range of this band provide more torque, but two-stage machines in the 22–28 inch class are better suited to consistently heavy or wet conditions.