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Toro Power Shovel Review
Toro Power Shovel 5 Star Rating: Cheapism Best Pick
Summary:
38361
Definitely not meant for heavy work, this lightweight, light power electric shovel has a telescoping handle and should clear a 12-inch path in up to six inches of snow. Users say it works well on smaller areas where a big snow blower won't fit, but gripe that holding the "on" button while clearing the snow gets tiring.

The Toro Power Shovel helps lots of people get through snowy winters. Designed for clearing light snow, it also works wonders on deeper accumulations in small spaces like decks, porches, stairs, and between parked cars, according Toro Power Shovel reviews. The specs suggest using this cheap electric shovel in no more than six inches of snow, and consumers report in Toro Power Shovel reviews on Amazon that it easily blows through that much powdery snow but slows a bit when set against denser snow or icy crystals; one says that the plastic impeller blades aren't suited for packed snow. Deeper snows pose more of a challenge but can be vanquished, users assert. Toro Snow Shovel reviews on Home Depot, for example, suggest attacking deep snow by layering off several inches at a time. One user, however, reports feeling some achiness the next day from holding the shovel aloft as he worked. Another common strategy involves shoveling at intervals during the course of a storm. This cheap snow shovel also scores points with users for its light weight and compact size. Women and seniors claim it's easy to operate and one reviewer says it's much like vacuuming.

This snow shovel is not without its faults. Two stand out: the straight-on throw and the lack of a lock for the trigger. It's all too easy to blow the same snow over and over, say Toro Power Shovel 38361 reviews, because the discharge points forward. The front-only discharge is a really big problem if the wind is blowing the snow toward you. Experts at Review Snow Blowers suggest starting at the center of the driveway and aiming the Power Shovel towards the sides. Users note that trial-and-error eventually leads to an efficient snow-clearing strategy for your property, such as holding the unit at a slight angle or walking at an angle. Another irritant, according to Toro Power Shovel reviews, is having to actively hold the power button "on" as you proceed. Doing so while shaving a top layer of deep snow is particularly tiring, one reports; another says a longer switch that you could hold with your hand instead of just fingers would be an improvement. A few consumers also wish for wheels to facilitate pushing.

This inexpensive power shovel weighs less than 13 pounds and appeals to consumers who don't feel capable of handling a large, wheeled snow blower. It's compact enough to store almost anywhere, including a closet in the house or from a hook in the garage. The 13.5-inch assembled width makes it slightly wider than a regular shovel; it clears a path 12 inches across and up to six inches deep. The electric Toro Power Shovel features 7.5 amps of power that can process up to 300 pounds of snow a minute and throw it up to 20 feet ahead. The telescoping handle can be adjusted for height and angle. The body and critical components are plastic.

This is a good choice for light-duty snow removal and detail work. As long as you understand the limitations of the Toro Power Shovel, you will not be disappointed. For the most part, it beats the manual shovel by a mile.

by Elizabeth Sheer (Google+ Profile) – September 20, 2011
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