Earthwise Electric Snow Shovel Durability Two Years On

The arrival of winter often brings a mix of emotions. On one hand, there’s the cozy charm of snow-covered landscapes and festive holidays. On the other, there’s the daunting chore of snow removal, often leading to aching backs and endless frustration. But what if tackling a fresh snowfall could be not just easy, but perhaps even enjoyable? As someone deeply familiar with lawn and garden tools, I’ve long recognized the struggles associated with traditional snow removal methods. Manual shoveling is undeniably strenuous, while larger snow blowers can be cumbersome for smaller, intricate spaces.

For years, I’ve kept a keen eye on the evolving landscape of electric snow shovels, intrigued by their promise of effortless snow clearing. Initially, I invested in a cordless snow blower, which proved an excellent solution for my main driveway. However, I still found myself resorting to manual labor for sidewalks, decks, and tight corners of my property. That’s when I had the opportunity to test the Earthwise 16-inch Electric Corded Snow Shovel, and it was an absolute game-changer. This compact powerhouse is, without exaggeration, a hundred times faster and significantly less exhausting than any traditional shovel I’ve ever used. It transformed a dreaded winter task into something remarkably efficient and, dare I say, almost fun. Here’s an in-depth look at why this innovative tool is poised to revolutionize your winter snow removal routine and why you, too, will come to appreciate its exceptional performance.

What is the Earthwise Electric Corded Snow Shovel?

Imagine a compact, powerful snow blower that effortlessly clears snow without requiring you to perform any heavy lifting. That’s precisely what the Earthwise SN70016, the specific model we put to the test, embodies. This innovative wheeled 16-inch snow shovel operates solely on electricity, eliminating the need for gasoline or battery charging. Weighing a mere 14 pounds, its design prioritizes being lightweight, compact, and highly portable. This allows it to navigate and clear snow from awkward or tight spaces that larger, more traditional snow blowers simply cannot reach, such as narrow pathways, intricate patio designs, or the top of stair landings.

Don’t let its size fool you; this machine is a snow-clearing marvel. It boasts an impressive capability, moving approximately 430 pounds of snow per minute, making quick work of accumulations up to 8 inches deep. The convenience of its corded electric power means you can simply plug it into a suitable outdoor extension cord, hit the push-button start, and get to work immediately. There are no fumes to contend with, no messy gas refills, and no frustrating waits for a battery to charge, offering instant readiness whenever Mother Nature delivers a snowfall. A standout feature contributing to its exceptional ease of use is the inclusion of 6-inch rear wheels. Unlike many other electric snow shovels that lack this crucial design element, these wheels provide a stable base, allowing the Earthwise snow shovel to stand upright on its own. This stability enhances maneuverability and reduces user fatigue significantly.

Furthermore, its lightweight nature makes it an ideal tool for anyone needing to clear snow from elevated surfaces like decks or porches with stairs. It’s light enough to be easily picked up and carried, or effortlessly pushed from one area to another with minimal physical exertion. This makes the Earthwise snow shovel not just a convenient alternative to manual labor, but a truly accessible and efficient snow removal solution for a wide range of users and property types.

Advanced Features: Precision Snow Throwing with the Earthwise Snow Shovel

One of the most impressive and practical features of the Earthwise 16-inch corded snow shovel is its highly intuitive directional output system. This allows users precise control over where the cleared snow is thrown, an essential aspect for efficient and tidy snow removal. At the base of the unit, a prominently sized directional knob facilitates easy adjustment of the throwing angle. Whether you need to direct snow to the left, right, or straight ahead, the lever is conveniently located and large enough to be operated effortlessly, even while wearing thick winter mittens or gloves. This thoughtful design eliminates the common frustration of fumbling with tiny, stiff controls found on lesser models. Crucially, because the Earthwise shovel stands upright on its own stable wheels, you don’t have to struggle to hold it or bend over uncomfortably to make these adjustments, further enhancing its user-friendliness.

My extensive testing of seven different electric snow shovels revealed a common flaw among competing models: many equipped with a directional chute featured small, often sticky adjustment dials that were prone to icing up, making them difficult or impossible to use in freezing conditions. The Earthwise, however, distinguishes itself with its generously sized and fluid directional knob. This superior design makes it a prime choice, particularly for individuals who suffer from back pain or have mobility issues, as it minimizes bending, twisting, and strain during operation. In addition to the main trigger handle, the Earthwise snow shovel is equipped with an auxiliary handle. This secondary grip point is easily adjustable for height, ensuring optimal comfort and handling for users of varying statures, allowing for a more natural and less fatiguing posture.

Powered by a robust 12-amp motor, this shovel is surprisingly capable. Depending on the consistency and density of the snow, it can powerfully propel snow up to 30 feet away, effectively clearing wide paths and reducing the need for multiple passes. The innovative dual-curved plastic auger is another key component contributing to its outstanding performance. Unlike some augers that struggle with denser snow, this design proved remarkably effective even in icy or heavily packed snow conditions. It effortlessly chews through stubborn snow and spits it out with impressive ease, significantly cutting down on the time and effort typically associated with clearing challenging snow types. This combination of powerful throwing, precise directional control, and an efficient auger makes the Earthwise Electric Corded Snow Shovel a formidable tool for a variety of winter conditions.

My Real-World Experience: Testing the Earthwise Snow Shovel in Heavy Northwestern Snow

My journey with the Earthwise corded snow shovel began several weeks before our region’s first significant snowfall, providing ample time for preparation. Upon arrival, the machine required some assembly, involving a handful of screws and bolts, most notably for attaching the wheels. While not overly complex, it did take a bit of focus to ensure everything was properly aligned and secured. Once assembled, I was eagerly awaiting the perfect opportunity to put it through its paces.

My back patio, characterized by its uneven, crumbling pavers, has always been a challenging area for snow removal. Its tight dimensions typically necessitate painstaking hand shoveling, largely because my Snow Joe cordless snowblower tends to get snagged on the irregular surface. Consequently, I was particularly excited to have a potentially superior tool to alleviate the arduous task of clearing this specific spot. Admittedly, testing a new tool in such a demanding environment is a tough ask, but I proceeded cautiously, mindful of avoiding any hidden gravel, debris, or stray sticks that might be concealed beneath the snow. A significant advantage here, however, proved to be the Earthwise shovel’s wheels, which allow the auger to be easily tilted upwards. This feature is invaluable when navigating surfaces that are not perfectly flat or smooth, providing a crucial margin of error and preventing potential damage to the auger or the surface itself.

The first snowfall was relatively light, accumulating only about an inch of very wet, slushy snow – not the ideal conditions for a true power test. Nevertheless, I was pleasantly surprised to observe that the Earthwise managed to effectively move this heavy, soupy slush. What truly impressed me was the distance it hurled the snow; the deeper the slush, the further it flew, demonstrating its power even with suboptimal snow types.

Handling Heavy, Wet Snow and Varied Terrain

Living in the Pacific Northwest, I was fortunate (or perhaps, unfortunate, depending on your perspective) to experience a variety of snow conditions, providing ample opportunities to further test the Earthwise snow shovel. During one particularly intense 24-hour period, we received a staggering 18 inches of heavy, wet snow. I utilized the Earthwise multiple times throughout this event to keep my patio and front porch area clear. This also allowed me to compare its performance directly against other powered shovels on diverse terrains. The Earthwise valiantly pushed through 6 inches of this dense, heavy snow. While it required a bit more effort and operated at a slightly slower pace compared to clearing the same depth of light, fluffy powder, its ability to tackle such challenging snow was still highly commendable and saved immense physical strain.

Clearing the main driveway, as expected, proved to be the least challenging task. Here, the Earthwise truly shone, allowing me to control it effortlessly with just one hand, much like pushing a lightweight vacuum cleaner. This left my other hand free to manage the extension cord, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted operation across the wider, flatter surface. The ease of maneuverability in such conditions was a clear testament to its ergonomic design and balanced weight.

For a final, slightly more unconventional test, I attempted to clear a narrow path for my small dog through the grass. With the snow already at least 8 inches deep, the wheels occasionally dug in, making it somewhat harder to maneuver compared to other electric shovels I had tested specifically for grass. However, putting that singular challenging task aside, my overall experience with the Earthwise snow shovel was overwhelmingly positive. It proved to be a highly effective tool that consistently transformed what would otherwise be a strenuous, time-consuming chore into a remarkably quick and easy task. From slushy, wet snow to ice-glazed crusts and light powder, the Earthwise snow shovel significantly simplified my winter routine, requiring a mere fraction of the time and effort compared to manual shoveling, and most importantly, being gentle on my back, wrists, and shoulders.

Pros of the Earthwise Electric Corded Snow Shovel

• Exceptional Ease of Use: Simple push-button start and lightweight design make it incredibly straightforward for anyone to operate, regardless of prior experience with power tools.
• Stands Upright Independently: Equipped with 6-inch rear wheels, this shovel remains stable and upright without needing assistance, a distinct advantage over many competitors that must be laid down when stopped.
• Effortless Start-Up: The push-button ignition eliminates the struggles of pull-cords or complex starting procedures common with gas-powered equipment.
• Adjustable Snow-Throwing Direction: Features a large, user-friendly lever for easily adjusting the output chute, allowing precise control over where snow is deposited, even while wearing winter gloves.
• Lightweight and Portable Design: At just 14 pounds, its ergonomic design ensures it’s easy to lift, carry, and maneuver around various obstacles and tight spaces, reducing physical strain.
• Powerful 12-Amp Motor: Capable of moving an impressive 430 pounds of snow per minute, tackling snow depths up to 8 inches with remarkable efficiency.
• Reliable 2-Year Warranty: Provides peace of mind and protection against manufacturing defects, highlighting the manufacturer’s confidence in its durability.

Cons of the Earthwise Electric Corded Snow Shovel

• Ear Protection Recommended: The powerful motor and auger can generate significant noise, making ear protection advisable during extended use for comfort and safety.
• Initial Assembly Required: Out-of-the-box, the unit requires some assembly, including attaching wheels and handles, which might take a novice user up to 1.5 hours.
• Tethered to a Cord: As a corded model, its operational range is limited by the length of your outdoor extension cord, requiring careful cord management to prevent tangles or accidental cuts.

Long-Term Performance: How the Earthwise Snow Shovel Held Up One Year Later

Given that some of our initial observations regarding the Earthwise Snow Shovel focused on its predominantly plastic body and its corded nature, we wanted to assess its long-term durability and performance. To achieve this, Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski was tasked with re-testing the very same Earthwise shovel that was evaluated last winter. This follow-up assessment aimed to determine how the device would perform after a season of use and storage, offering valuable insights into its longevity and continued effectiveness.

Katie reported positively on its sustained performance, noting, “It worked pretty well. It did a good job of throwing snow and getting down to almost clean pavement. We received about six inches of snow, and it cleared all of it in a single pass. Plus, I really appreciate that I didn’t have to concern myself with adding gas or dealing with engine maintenance.” This feedback reinforces the shovel’s consistent power and efficiency in basic snow-clearing tasks, highlighting the inherent benefits of electric operation.

However, Katie did reiterate some of the initial concerns, particularly regarding the tactile feel of the plastic components and the occasional trickiness in maneuvering the corded unit. “I would suggest only using this shovel on smaller, more defined areas, such as a patio, an entryway, or a sidewalk,” she advised. Her recommendation stems largely from the limitations imposed by its corded design. While excellent for compact spaces, the Earthwise Snow Shovel may not be ideally suited for expansive driveways where managing a long extension cord can quickly become a cumbersome and frustrating endeavor.

Katie also pointed out a practical ergonomic detail: “Be prepared to continuously hold down the trigger, which can become challenging with cold, gloved hands over extended periods.” This suggests that while powerful, the trigger mechanism could be a point of fatigue for some users. Ultimately, if budget allows, Katie’s experience led her to recommend the cordless alternative. “Truthfully,” she elaborated, “the cord is pretty obnoxious. You have to plug it into an extension cord, so the total cord length is entirely dependent on your extension cord. I frequently found myself getting tangled and worried about accidentally running over the cord. I truly believe the cordless version would be significantly better, especially for larger driveways, offering unparalleled freedom of movement.”

Product Comparison: Choosing the Right Earthwise Snow Shovel for Your Needs

Earthwise offers a range of electric snow shovels, each designed to cater to different snow removal requirements and preferences. Understanding the distinctions between these models will help you select the ideal tool for your specific property and lifestyle.

For those primarily dealing with stairs, narrow walkways, or very confined spaces, the Earthwise Electric 12-inch Corded Snow Shovel presents a highly convenient and maneuverable option. Its key differentiator is the absence of wheels, making it easier to lift and carry, especially up and down steps. Being narrower than its 16-inch wheeled counterpart, it excels in tight spots. This 12-inch shovel is best suited for clearing up to 5 inches of snow and is powered by a 10-amp motor, moving approximately 300 pounds of snow per minute. While not as powerful as the 16-inch version, its compact size makes it an excellent choice for easy storage in a closet or small utility space, appealing to those with minimal snow-clearing needs or limited storage.

If the thought of being constantly tethered to an extension cord while clearing snow is a deterrent, Earthwise’s cordless options, including their cordless snow blowers and shovels, are worth serious consideration. The Earthwise SN74016 Cordless snow shovel, for instance, shares many specifications with the corded model discussed in this review. It features the same 16-inch clearing width and 8-inch clearing depth, along with 6-inch wheels and a dual-blade auger. The undeniable advantage of this cordless model is its significantly greater mobility and freedom of movement, allowing you to clear snow anywhere on your property without electrical outlet proximity. However, it’s important to note a few trade-offs: the cordless model is approximately 5 pounds heavier due to the battery, and it necessitates the purchase and maintenance of a battery and charger, adding to the initial cost and requiring pre-charging before use.

Ultimately, the choice between Earthwise models boils down to your specific property layout, the typical volume and depth of snow you encounter, and your personal preference regarding mobility versus continuous power. For smaller, defined areas where an outlet is easily accessible, the corded 16-inch model reviewed here is an exceptional and cost-effective choice. For intricate areas or stairs, the 12-inch corded variant shines. But for ultimate freedom and larger areas, a cordless option, despite its battery considerations, might be your best bet.

What Other Reviewers Are Saying About the Earthwise Electric Snow Shovel

The Earthwise electric snow shovel consistently surpasses the expectations of a wide range of customers, earning high praise for its performance and convenience. Many users, initially skeptical of a compact electric unit, are pleasantly surprised by its power and efficacy.

Amazon customer William Grieszmer, for example, awarded it a five-star review, detailing his satisfaction: “Easy to assemble (around 20 minutes) and does a very good job of throwing the sidewalk snow on my city sidewalks. It works well to clean up down to minimal thickness, but it’s important to note it’s not intended to absolutely clean the sidewalk; additional scraping or treatment would be needed for that. However, this power shovel performs admirably for its intended purpose. It’s much lighter and far more maneuverable than even the smallest electric classic snowblower. I am extremely satisfied with the product.” His review highlights the balance between power and portability, a common theme among positive feedback.

Another Amazon customer, Kristin, articulated a sentiment many users with physical limitations share, poignantly asking, “Where was this 30 years ago?” She elaborated on her personal experience: “I have been involved in snow removal for 35 years in Central Pennsylvania, a wooded area. When we do get snow, it can be utterly exhausting, especially without the aid of machines. My decks and pressed concrete cannot be scraped with ‘metal’ tools, making this ‘shovel’ a major advantage. Due to horrendous spine and joint issues, not to mention a hip replacement, this thing made snow removal so much more comfortable. I sincerely hope it lasts forever!” Kristin’s testimony powerfully underscores the Earthwise’s role as a back-saving solution for individuals facing physical challenges.

Jeffrey N. Gawne also shared his positive experience, stating, “This was an easy-to-assemble, powerful little snow thrower! I used it this past winter for my decks and sidewalks. There are times when I simply don’t want to get the large walk-behind snowblower out. This unit is directional, offering the flexibility to throw snow from about 45 degrees left to 45 degrees right. It sailed through the winter with flying colors. You do need to be careful around kids, pets, etc.; the whirling plastic blades out front are quite powerful, like a woodchipper, so exercise caution around deck posts. I specifically chose a corded model so I wouldn’t have to worry about batteries running down. In my opinion, this is definitely worth the money.” Jeffrey’s review reinforces the value proposition, the convenience for specific tasks, and offers practical safety advice.

Collectively, these reviews paint a consistent picture: the Earthwise Electric Snow Shovel is a lightweight, powerful, and highly effective tool that offers significant relief from the physical demands of manual snow shoveling, making it a beloved addition to many homeowners’ winter arsenal.

Final Verdict: The Earthwise Electric Corded Snow Shovel – Your Winter Back Saver

There’s no doubt in my mind: the Earthwise Electric Corded Snow Shovel will unequivocally make your winter life considerably easier. As someone who has endured the rigors of manual snow removal for years, I can confidently say I would choose to let this machine effortlessly lift 430 pounds of snow per minute any day, rather than subject my aching back to the strain. Beyond the physical relief, this tool is an incredible time-saver. The prospect of heading out the door for work in the morning no longer means rising two hours earlier to frantically clear snow before it freezes into an unyielding block. This is truly a device that exemplifies ease of operation and maneuverability, making snow removal an almost effortless task.

A feature I particularly appreciate and that sets this machine apart is its exceptional stability. Unlike many other electric snow shovels that tend to tip over when you pause, the Earthwise stands upright independently, thanks to its well-designed wheeled base. This means you can easily stop to adjust the cord, change the angle of the snow output, or simply take a brief break without the frustration of bending over repeatedly to pick it up off the ground. This thoughtful design makes it incredibly user-friendly, especially for seniors or individuals who struggle with lifting heavy loads. The only minor challenge I’ve encountered is maintaining a continuous grip on the trigger, which can become tiring for some during longer clearing sessions.

For a medium-duty snow thrower, the power and durability of this machine are remarkably substantial, all while maintaining a feather-light profile. The auger’s ability to slice through chunky, compacted snow is impressively effective, and throughout my extensive testing, I have never experienced issues with clogging or overloading the motor. Furthermore, unlike the significant vibrations often associated with larger, more powerful gas-powered snow blowers, the Earthwise operates smoothly and without noticeable vibration, enhancing user comfort during operation.

While I don’t expect any snow shovel, especially one largely constructed from plastic, to last forever, Earthwise offers a reassuring two-year warranty. They also provide readily available replacement parts for wear-and-tear components like the scraper blade or belts, extending the tool’s lifespan significantly. I sincerely wish I had invested in an electric snow shovel years ago. Even though I already own a traditional snowblower, this handy snow removal tool possesses the agility to access places my larger machine simply cannot. While the cord can be a little cumbersome at times, the overall benefits of its featherweight design, stable operation, and powerful performance far outweigh this minor inconvenience. Priced at under $125, it’s a far more affordable investment than multiple trips to the chiropractor to alleviate winter-induced back pain.

Where to Buy the Earthwise Electric Corded Snow Shovel

Why continue to break your back shoveling snow when the Earthwise electric snow shovel is specifically designed to perform all the heavy lifting for you? This remarkably lightweight 14-pound machine possesses the agility and compact form factor to access and clear areas where traditional, bulkier snowblowers simply cannot reach. All this comes at a mere fraction of the cost associated with larger, more complex machinery. The Earthwise is a highly popular product and often sells out quickly due to high demand, so ensure you grab yours today on Amazon. Once you have it, you’ll be able to effortlessly clear your deck, patio, or sidewalk of any type of snow, whether it’s slushy, heavy, or powdery, transforming a dreaded chore into a manageable task.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Snow Shovels

How do you assemble an Earthwise snow shovel?

Assembling the 16-inch Earthwise corded snow shovel is a straightforward process that primarily requires patience and a careful read of the directions to attach the various components. I’ll confess that I’m not naturally mechanically inclined, and tool assembly has historically been a challenge for me. So, when I first unboxed the unit and laid out the parts—11 screws and bolts of varying lengths, two wheels, an axle, several handle sections, plastic-covered wing nuts, the main motor base, and a folding handle housing the wiring—I admit I felt a moment of panic. However, I’ve learned that patience truly is the best tool for any assembly project. Equipping myself with screwdrivers, some motivating tunes, and a cup of coffee, I meticulously read the instructions and proceeded one step at a time.

To assemble the Earthwise snow shovel, follow these general steps:

• First, align the main handle sections, snap them securely together, and then fasten them with the provided bolt.
• Next, plug the elongated handle into the base unit, which houses the motor and the auger mechanism.
• Secure these two primary pieces by inserting four Phillips head screws.
• Proceed to screw in the auger’s directional knob, ensuring it is firmly in place but still allows for smooth rotation.
• Mount the wheels onto their designated bracket, and then secure this entire bracket assembly to the main machine body.
• Finally, attach the auxiliary handle, adjusting it to your preferred height and angle for maximum comfort. Once these steps are completed, your Earthwise snow shovel is ready to roll!

For me, a novice at such tasks, the entire process took about an hour and a half. It’s worth noting that other users have mentioned the directions aren’t always the most user-friendly. However, more experienced or mechanically adept individuals have reported completing the assembly in as little as 20 minutes.

What is the best kind of snow shovel to buy?

When it comes to snow removal, the “best” shovel is unequivocally the one that minimizes your physical effort and performs the heavy lifting for you. In modern terms, this almost always points towards an electric snow shovel, whether it’s battery-powered (cordless) or corded. Having personally tested seven different electric snow shovels, my conclusion is clear: a power shovel is vastly superior and significantly easier to use than any conventional manual shovel. These powered alternatives reduce strain, save time, and make the arduous task of snow clearing far more manageable, especially after a heavy snowfall. The best choice for you will depend on factors like your property size, typical snow depth, and preference for corded vs. cordless mobility.

Who makes the best battery-operated snow shovel?

During my comprehensive testing of various battery-powered snow shovels, I found that many models performed commendably, each with its own strengths. If you’re seeking a truly robust and heavy-duty workhorse capable of tackling more demanding conditions, the Ego Power+ Multi-Head Snow Shovel Kit consistently proved to be a top contender, delivering impressive power and versatility. Alternatively, for a solid choice that balances ample power with an affordable price point and a lighter body, the Snow Joe Cordless Snow Shovel stands out as an excellent option. Both of these brands offer reliable performance for those who prioritize the freedom of cordless operation.

Are battery-operated snow shovels worth it?

Both cordless and corded electric snow shovels are absolutely worth every penny if their primary function is to eliminate the back-breaking labor traditionally associated with manual snow removal. The convenience and physical relief they offer are invaluable. However, there are specific considerations when it comes to battery-operated snow shovels, primarily centered around battery runtime. If you have a large area to clear, are dealing with particularly heavy or deep snow, and the battery runs out mid-task, you could face hours of waiting for it to recharge. This can be a significant drawback in urgent situations or during continuous snowfall.

A corded snow shovel, on the other hand, offers continuous power, ready to go whenever Mother Nature strikes, without any concern for battery life. Corded units also generally weigh less than their battery-powered counterparts because they don’t carry the added weight of a battery pack, making them less fatiguing to maneuver over extended periods. However, the inherent beauty and primary advantage of a cordless snow shovel lie in its untethered mobility. If you enjoy the freedom of routinely clearing your neighbor’s walk, or have a property with areas far from an electrical outlet, you will undoubtedly appreciate the unrestricted movement offered by a battery-operated snow shovel. Ultimately, whether you choose a corded or cordless model, you’ll experience significantly less effort and time spent cleaning up your property, transforming a dreaded winter chore into a much more manageable task.

Why You Can Trust Our Expert Reviews

My career has been dedicated to the meticulous testing and evaluation of various products, which is precisely why I feel confident and well-qualified to share my insights on this particular Earthwise model with you. My assessment goes far beyond merely researching product features and sifting through online reviews—though those steps are certainly part of my comprehensive process. For this review, I put the Earthwise Electric Corded Snow Shovel through rigorous, real-world testing multiple times, including tackling a formidable 18 total inches of snow that fell within a challenging 24-hour period. As anyone familiar with Northwestern snowstorms can attest, they are no trivial matter, providing an ideal, demanding environment for a thorough evaluation.

Furthermore, it’s important to emphasize that Family Handyman, the esteemed publication backing this review, upholds incredibly high standards for how we vet and test all products. Our commitment to fair, unbiased, and exhaustive testing practices has been a cornerstone of our reputation since 1951. You can trust that our recommendations are based on objective performance data and genuine user experience, not on superficial impressions.

To ensure this story remains current and robust, we also engaged Caitlyn Fitzpatrick, an experienced editor and writer with a rich background in commerce content, cultivated through her extensive work at prestigious outlets such as Trusted Media Brands, Hearst Digital Media, and more. Her expertise ensures that the updated content is not only accurate but also presented with clarity and authority, reflecting the highest journalistic standards.