Why December Is the Worst Time to Buy a Snow Blower
Most of us are impulse buyers and do not always plan far ahead, especially when it comes to the weather. One of the most common mistakes people make with winter preparation happens every year. When the first snowfall arrives in early December, many rush to their local garden center or department store to buy a snow blower.
The problem is that it has already snowed and may continue to snow heavily for days. Roads can be difficult to navigate, stores become crowded, and long checkout lines are common. Everyone is in a hurry, impatient, and simply wants to get the job done and head home. In some cases, it may even be impossible to reach a store due to poor road conditions. When that happens, many people are left stuck and unprepared.
So, when is the best time to get your snow blower?
Summer
It may sound strange, but summer can actually be the best time to buy a snow blower or any winter related equipment. Seeing a snow blower delivered to your home during the warmer months might look a little odd, but the savings often make it well worth it.
Manufacturers typically release their new winter models early, which puts significant pressure on pricing for older or previous year models. This creates an opportunity for buyers to find excellent deals well before winter arrives.
One downside to shopping locally in the summer is that most retailers are focused on lawn mowers, weed trimmers, and other warm weather tools. Snow blowers may be stored away or not displayed at all. Fortunately, online retailers sell snow blowers year round, making it easy to browse and purchase from the comfort of your home.
Consumer Reports recommends shopping toward the end of summer or early fall. We encourage shoppers to start looking by the end of August, when availability is still strong and discounts are often at their best.
Spring
Late winter and early spring can be the second best time to purchase a snow blower. Retailers are eager to clear out winter inventory to make room for spring and summer products. Because of this, prices are often deeply discounted.
While selection may be more limited than in summer, shoppers can still find solid options and good value, especially if they are flexible on model features or brand.
Fall and Winter
This is generally the worst time to buy a snow blower. Most people wait until snow is already falling or severe weather is forecasted. Retailers are well aware of this increased demand, and prices tend to rise accordingly.
By this time, older models have usually sold-out during spring and summer sales, leaving only newer and more expensive options. Another issue is that new snow blower models often lack reviews. Without real world feedback, it is difficult to know whether a new model has design flaws or quality concerns. Once a model has been tested by consumers and receives positive reviews, it becomes a much safer purchase.
Being prepared ahead of winter weather can save you time, stress, and money. Thinking ahead and purchasing a snow blower during the off season allows you to avoid last minute panic, crowded stores, and higher prices when winter conditions hit.
After living for about 10 years in the north-east, now we have shifted to south and it pleases me to think that I don’t have to worry about snow and snow blowers anymore! Having said that, I absolutely agree that winter isn’t a good time to buy a snow blower as they sell out on great discounts during spring time!
Great advice, especially for anyone who tends to shop in a rush. The comparison between buying off season versus during peak winter was really clear. I will be keeping this in mind next year instead of scrambling once the forecast turns snowy.
Great advice, especially for anyone who tends to shop in a rush. The comparison between buying off season versus during peak winter was really clear. I will be keeping this in mind next year instead of scrambling once the forecast turns snowy.
I agree! Seasonal price hikes are the best time to get separated from your money if you don’t plan ahead. I always try to buy such items after the season ends. I buy them on sale and store them away for a rainy, snowy, hot and/or much needed day!
This is such a helpful reminder that timing really matters when it comes to big seasonal purchases. Buying ahead in the summer or early fall makes so much sense and can save a lot of stress and money once winter weather hits. Sending this to my husband since we were just talking about buying one.
Yes, you are very right! Buying anything in the off-season is always a good idea. Low demand will dictate lower prices that suit your pocket.
This was a good read!
I used to work at a hardware store where we dreaded those first big storms because of the angry crowds. Planning ahead in August is a much better way to avoid that seasonal price hike.
I live in the South, we don’t get snow here, so I never thought about having better “seasons” to purchase. I guess it’s similar to us, and not getting a generator right at the start of hurricane season.
This was such a practical and timely reminder that smart winter planning actually starts months before the snow arrives. I really appreciated the insight about summer and spring pricing because most of us only think about buying a snow blower when the first storm hits and stress takes over. Your tips make preparation feel less like panic shopping and more like a strategy, especially for those of us living in snowy regions.
I don’t need a snow blower but I can see why it’s the worst time to buy during the winter months! It’s better to be prepared and buy it ahead of time to get ahead of the weather. Plus, it’s probably on a better discount during the summer months!
Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com
NEVER buy a snow thrower in the winter. You want to buy them in the summer when demand is low and the stores need to offload them.
The best time to buy any product is when it isn’t the season for it and therefore it is in less demand. Prices most often drop to allow for the lower demand. It makes sense to buy in summer when they are readily available and not in demand and then store it ready for the snow over winter. It is so convenient that these things can be bought easily online all year round.
Taking note of this great information for winter, or, after reading this, for the upcoming summer to buy a snow blower! Thanks for sharing this!
I’ve been thinking about getting a snow blower for a while and this year I read we are going to get a lot of snow. It’s the beginning of Sept…I know I’ve missed the August window. …maybe I will get lucky. Glad I read this, it might just save me some money. Thanks.