In this Husqvarna ST224 review you’ll see why this has been a top selling two-stage snow blower for years but is it still worth buying in 2023?. Husqvarna finally combined the ST224 and ST224P, which now means this model has power steering and heated handle-grips. Also, the ST224 has a 212cc Husqvarna engine instead of the 208cc engine. This model has been around for several years, and the impression is that it has become more refined over the years — but has it? Is it better in 2023?
Table of Contents...
- 1 Editor Compares — Husqvarna ST224 vs TORO 60V Flex-Force (39924)
- 2 WEN SB24 / Best Value 2-stage Snow Blower under $1000
- 3 Husqvarna ST224 Review – Balanced
Cordless Can Outperform 2-Stage Gas Snow Blowers
As you’ll see, there’s more competition this year and battery powered 2-stage snow blowers are just as good as the ST224 — actually, the new cordless models from TORO and EGO are better, in my opinion.
I’ll show you why in a moment. It’s an exciting time to be buying a snow blower as we’ve finally reached the point where cordless snow blowers are as effective as gas-power. This is a massive achievement.
Let’s be honest, a good quality snow blower is not cheap, especially a 2-stage model. I’d never recommend anything I wouldn’t buy myself or recommend to a friend. I will tell you now, based on real data, the Husqvarna ST224 isn’t quite the snow blower it used to be, primarily because Husqvarna seems to be cutting corners and using cheaper components in places. Online customer complaints seem to heavily weighted around the premature breaking of parts.
Consider ➤ TORO Power Max 24″ / 2-Stage : Excellent Reliability
Costs a few hundred dollars more than the Husqvarna ST224.
TORO Makes excellent snow blowers compared to other brands. This is their Power Max series, considered an entry level model but far better than the top models from comparable brands. They have high standards. These are highly recommended for homeowners. The quality is fantastic and they’re packed with features you find on more expensive snow blowers, such as:
Heated handle-grips, LED headlight, self-propelled, proprietary anti-clogging system, one-handed control, Quick Stick Control makes shifting the chute effortless, hardened gears (no shear pins) so if the auger hits something hard it will intentionally stall, preventing damage. One of the best two-stage snow blowers. If you want the next level of TORO snow blowers ► look at the TORO HD Series.
Personally, I don’t think the ST224 is the best 2-stage for the money. My mind has changed from previous years. The market has changed and with it, my mind has changed to reflect the new reality. In 2023, you have some great options, most cost more than the ST224, but some are cheaper.
Truth is, it’s difficult to find a good snow blower under $1000 because these are complicated machines and quality components cost money. If I told you I invented a car that I can sell to you profitably for less than $5000, would you buy it? How good do you think it would be? Would it be safe to drive?
The same logic you applied to my car example is applicable to buying a snow blower. Quality demands the price is over $1000, and if it costs less, that means some of the components are not very durable. Something has to give. Do you want quality or cheap?
Alight, now let’s get to the main event and see how the ST224 compares with the TORO 60V — both are 24-inches.
Editor Compares — Husqvarna ST224 vs TORO 60V Flex-Force (39924)
We are in the middle of a revolution, at the intersection where battery technology will soon replace gas-powered machinery. For the first time in history, TORO has engineered a 2-stage 24″ snow blower that uses the same all-metal housing they use for the gas-powered snow blowers and instead of gasoline, it’s powered by their powerful Flex-Force cordless technology. How do these machines measure up?
Last winter I received an email from a woman who was struggling to maneuver her ST224 snow blower, she wrote to me and said : “I should have gotten the power steering model.” Thankfully power steering is standard. Imagine trying to drive your car through snow without power steering. Think about it. It will matter when you’re out clearing that snow.
Husqvarna ST224 – 24″ / 212cc
You might find it strange that I’m comparing a gas powered 2-stage snow blower with the newest battery powered 2-stage model from TORO, but I feel that buyers need to know that the market is different in 2023/23 compared to any other time in history.
I will say that this is the first time that cordless snow blower is equal to the quality and clearing capacity as a traditional gas-powered. Yes, I am telling you that the Toro 60V (39924) is equal to the ST224 and even better because you don’t have to inhale toxic fumes, and you never have to do maintenance.
The ST224 has been a top selling gas snow blower for many years. It’s a good buy and well-priced. This year Husqvarna has discontinued the ST224P model which has power steering. Instead, they have one model with all the best features, including power steering and heated handle grips.
The rating for this model should be higher but it seems that Husqvarna has decided to use cheaper components in areas where there’s a lot of stress and a quality part would be the right choice. I’ve noticed an increase in complaints due to parts breaking prematurely and this is my primary concern and something you need to consider and research more before you decide what to buy.
Now, let’s compare the ST224 to the new TORO Flex-Force 60V cordless.
TORO E24 60V – 24″ / 39924
This cordless 60V E24 model from TORO is a work of genius and it’s different than other cordless snow blowers because it’s made from heavy-duty steel but TORO engineers have simply integrated their electrical power system to work flawless with their gas powered design.
Most people think that battery power means you have to give up power and snow clearing capacity but with this TORO you do not. It has all the bells and whistles you would want, including heated handle grips, power steering, it’s self propelled and so much more.
This is the best 2-stage snow blower for homeowners. If you have a larger property then I recommend getting a 3rd battery. Ah yes, this has an innovative 3rd battery slot which allows you to extend your running time but they don’t force you to buy two more batteries like other cordless snow blowers.
Besides the fact this TORO cordless performs flawlessly as a snow blower, it’s superior to the ST224 for several significant reasons. Let’s begin with the fact that it’s actually quiet. Imagine a quiet snow blower. And, there’s no maintenance to worry about, and lastly, you don’t have to inhale toxic emissions. Now, look at all of the features:
For more recommendations of the latest and greatest 2-stage snow blowers for the 2023/23 winter season read our buying guide on the best 2-stage snow blowers for the money. Here you’ll find many diverse options, including Husqvarna snow blowers.
You probably doubt that cordless snow blower could be as good as gas and you would have been right two years ago, but in 2023 everything’s different. Watch this and see what you think. Don’t take my word for it…
Video / TORO 60V Flex-Force in Deep Snow
Don’t Buy No Name Brands with No Warranty
Why does this matter? Because you want to have confidence that if your snow blower has problems that the manufacturer will provide support under your warranty and also that a few years down the road you can still find parts if you need them. Most people don’t consider the long-term when spending a lot of money. Never buy the cheapest snow blower from a no-name brand. You might as well throw away your money. Having said all of that, Husqvarna is a brand you can trust and you know will be around for years to come, making support and parts always easy to come by.
Quick Review: Ariens Deluxe Series / 24″ to 30″ — 2-Stage
Best Heavy-Duty Homeowner Gas Snow Blower
Available in four different sizes to match your snow clearing requirements:
FEATURES —
OVERVIEW —- ARIENS Deluxe
The Ariens Deluxe series of snow blowers is at the top of the list for quality homeowner snow blowers. Most brands save their best technology for the commercial or premium series but Ariens begins their snow blower lineup with a premium series and only gets better from there. This is a fundamental problem with the philosophy that most snow blower manufacturers have and it makes no sense whatsoever.
What you find on most brands is their “residential” default series is cheaply made and sold for $700 to $1000. They use cheap components and pay little attention to the long-term durability of the snow blower, nor do they care all that much about how effective it is at clearing snow. Their goal is primarily focused on selling an inexpensive snow blower at the cost of quality and snow clearing ability. I find this infuriating, especially after hearing countless stories of disappointment and frustration from homeowners who have spent their hard earned money on cheaply made models.
This is where Ariens is different. They don’t make garbage. Period. All of their snow blowers are excellent. You see, they put engineering and quality first and then determine what price they should sell it at. This makes sense and this is why Ariens has an excellent reputation. They make exceptional snow blowers first. Why would a brand intentionally design a inadequate machine knowing that it will break down sooner rather than later? Why do brands make bad business decisions?
The Cheapest Ariens 2-Stage : Classic 24 / 920025
And by the way, Ariens makes their snow blowers in the USA. People buy their snow blowers because they know they can depend on them. They are a premium brand and yes, their 2-stage snow blowers cost more than $1000, but so what — their snow blowers actually clear deep snow and they don’t break prematurely. You can be sure your money won’t be thrown in garbage. My philosophy is that it’s far better to spend more money on something of quality and that will accomplish the task it’s intended for, instead of buying a cheap product that’s frustrating to use and doesn’t do what it’s supposed to do effectively.
Ultimately you have to decided how you want to spend your money. Most good 2-stage snow blowers cost more than $1000. The only sub-$1000 model I’d truly recommend is probably the WEN
WEN SB24 / Best Value 2-stage Snow Blower under $1000
Preparing for Winter
Winter is becoming increasing more unpredictable nowadays and you rarely know if it’s going to be a season of heavy snowfall or not. Already in Sept 2019, the Northern Rockies had over 4 feet of snow. Winter hasn’t even begun and yet, here we are with unprecedented amounts of snow. The Farmers’ Almanac predicts a colder than normal winter for 66% of the US. Who knows how it will all play out, but early indicators point to a cold snowy winter. Do you live in a region susceptible to major snowfalls?
Surviving Winter
The first thing you need is a snow blower. If you have property you need an effective way to clear that snow. The Husqvarna ST224 and the ST224P (has power steering) are designed for deep wet snow over up to about 12-inches, and for light fluffy snow, these can handle snow up to about 18-inches. The type of snow actually matters so consider that when trying to decide on the right snow blower.
These Husqvarna 2-stage snow blowers are capable of the clearing heavy snow under challenging conditions, but they do have their limits. There are more powerful snow blowers on the market, which we’ll look at. Don’t expect them to handle 2 feet of snow. If you live in Buffalo, NY, well, you probably need something more powerful.
If you truly want to be ready for winter then you should consider a portable generator to keep your refrigerator powered so your food won’t spoil, as well as the ability to power all of your important devices. Trust me, when the power goes out, for whatever reason, especially if it’s freezing cold outside, a portable generator will be a lifesaver, allowing you to run a portable heater, alongside your fridge, and other life essential devices.
Power Steering now Standard | Husqvarna ST224
Let’s take a closer look at the Husqvarna ST224 so you can decide whether or not it’s the right model for you.
Husqvarna ST224 Review – Balanced
Designed to handle deep snow under harshest conditions. The Husqvarna ST224 is a feat of engineering as it will power through anything you throw at it. Self-propelled and comes with practical heated handles to keep your hands toasty warm even when the air temperature is freezing.
VIDEO | Impressive Snow Clearing Ability — Husqvarna ST224
Husqvarna is synonymous with quality. When it comes to power equipment the Husqvarna brand should be at the top of your list. If you’re ever uncertain which brand product to buy just buy Husqvarna and it will be money well spent. And no, I don’t work for Husqvarna but you can’t argue with a company that’s been around since 1689. That’s not an error. Husqvarna has been around for over 325 years.
Watch this short video on the history of Husqvarna:
You can also read this PDF document showing the history of Husqvarna. I don’t think most people realize the rich history of Husqvarna and the fact that they make more than great chainsaws for consumers and professionals. Case in point : Husqvarna snow blowers are also highly regarded and well-made. If you don’t believe me, just read the customer reviews.
Features / Husqvarna ST224
Can throw snow up to 35 feet, allowing you to clear large areas of snow with ease.
Features : Husqvarna ST224
| Friction disc transmission | 208cc Husqvarna LCT 4-Cycle Engine |
| Work in the dark : LED headlights | Interlock handle for single hand control |
| Heated handle grips | Loop handle for optimum grip and control |
| Differential lock for optimum traction | Clearing stick to clean snow from chute |
| Heavy-tread X-trac tires | 5-year engine warranty |
| Plastic skid shoes : Prevents damaging surfaces | Quiet muffler reduces noise |
| Steel construction / Ribbon auger | Throttle control for easy idling down |
| Aluminum auger gearbox | Remote Chute & Deflector Control |
| High speed impeller : Throws snow 35 ft. | 4 height positions |
| Six forward speeds & one reverse | Electric Starter |
Documents for the Husqvarna ST224 :
- View or download the MANUAL.
- View or download the DATA SHEET.
Overview :
The Husqvarna ST224 is designed for clearing heavy snow. It’s the perfect snow blower if you live in an area where snow storms are common year after year. It has a 24″ clearing width and a 23″ intake height. This machine can process a lot of snow in a short amount of time with its 208cc Husqvarna engine.
Advantages of a two-stage snow blower?
A two-stage snow blower like the Husqvarna ST224 is ideal if you live in region where a typical snowfall is above 8-inches. Also, it’s self-propelled so it’s much easier to handle and maneuver if you have inclines or hills to traverse.
A two-stage snow blower uses an auger to collect the snow, and uses an impeller to throw the snow far away from the machine. The Husqvarna ST224 can throw snow up to 35 feet, which is a good distance to collect the snow far away from where you’re clearing.
If you live in an area where the snowfall accumulation is moderate (under 8″) then I recommend buying a single stage snow blower. They’re designed for light-duty snow clearing whereas the Husqvarna ST224 is engineered for heavy snowfall.
✓ Learn more by reading : Single Stage Snow Blower vs Two Stage Snow Blower This is a common question people want to know more about. Hint : A 2-stage snow blower is built to clear heavy wet snow, and regular fluffy snow in depths of over 8-inches. A single stage is for fluffy snow under 8-inches.
Main Features| Husqvarna ST224
Two-stage system: Snow is fed into the housing by an auger and then discharged through the chute by the high-speed impeller.
Skid Shoes: Fully adjustable and used to adjust height of scraper bar from the ground. The skid shoes are reversible for a longer lifespan.
Skid plates/shoes are located on each side of the auger housing and adjust the clearance between the scraper bar and the ground surface. Adjust skid plates evenly to proper height for current surface conditions.
✓TIP: For removal of snow in normal conditions, such as a paved driveway or sidewalk, place skid plates in the highest position (lowest scraper clearance) to give a 1/8″ clearance between the scraper bar and the ground. Use a middle position if the surface to be cleared is uneven.
Handle height adjustment: Adjustable handle height allows you to find the ‘sweet spot’ when it comes to comfort. We’re all different heights so don’t overlook the importance of being able to adjust the height.
Ribbon auger: The ribbon auger mixes air into the snow, which makes the snow easy to handle and thereby ensures efficient clearing.
Electric starter: Connect to a power outlet and start the engine by pressing a button. Our starter system ensures that you’ll never have to worry about a dead battery.
How to use the Electric Start:
The Husqvarna ST224 is equipped with both a 120 Volt A.C. electric starter and a recoil starter. The electric starter has a three-wire power cord and plug which is designed to operate on the standard 120 Volt A.C. household current.
- Insert safety ignition key (tied to recoil start cord) into ignition slot until it clicks. DO NOT turn the key. Keep the extra safety ignition key in a safe place.
- Place ON / OFF switch in “ON” position.
- Move choke control to “FULL” position.
- Push the primer three (3) times.
- Connect the power cord to the engine.
- Plug the other end of the power cord into a three-hole grounded 120 Volt A.C. receptacle.
- Push starter button until engine starts.
LED headlights: Husqvarna gave put a lot of thought into the design of these headlights. They give the Husqvarna ST224 a face, and some style. When the snow is falling at 3am in the morning and you pull out this snow blower, simply turn on the LED lights and you’ll be able to see where you’re going. Not all snow blowers have headlights, but the good ones do and in my opinion, should be on all snow blowers for your own safety.
Heated handle grips: Your hands are the most vulnerable to getting cold when you’re outside blowing snow and since they are the only thing you are using to control the ST224 it becomes even more important to ensure that your hands are comfortable. It may seem like a small feature but in fact the heated hand grips are one of the best features on this Husqvarna snow blower. Having warm hands while your work makes it easier for you maneuver the snow blower, but more importantly, you’ll be much happier while you’re out in the cold. And when you’re done, you can go inside for a well-deserved cup of hot chocolate.
X-trac, heavy-tread tires: Extra traction in deep and icy snow. It’s the same as having snow tires on your car. You wouldn’t use summer tires on snow, at least you shouldn’t. These tires are designed to stick to slippery conditions and prevents the snow blower from sliding around, which can also be dangerous.
Chute cleaning tool: It goes wherever you go. If you snow sticks to your chute, this is the tool to use.
6 Forward / 1 Reverse Speed : Slower speeds are best used for heavier snowfalls and faster speeds are for light snow and/or transporting the snow thrower. If you’re new to using a two-stage snow blower I recommend starting with the slower speeds until you’re comfortable with operating the snow thrower.
Controlling the Husqvarna ST224
Self-propelling, forward and reverse movement of the snow thrower, is controlled by the traction drive control lever located on the left side handle.
- Squeeze traction drive control lever to handle to engage the drive system.
- Release traction drive control lever to stop the forward or reverse movement of the snow thrower.
Throwing Snow
The auger rotation is controlled by the auger control lever located on the right side handle.
- Squeeze auger control lever to handle to engage the auger and throw snow.
- Release the auger control lever to stop throwing snow.
I recommend downloading and reading the manual to get a better idea of how to setup and operate the ST224.
Tech Specs (Husqvarna ST224):
- Weight: 196.6 lbs
- Blower type: Two-stage
- Working width: 24 inch
- Auger diameter: 30.5 cm / 12 “
- Number of impeller blades: 3
- Engine manufacturer: LCT
- Cylinder displacement: 208 cc
- Net power at preset rpm: 4.7 kW @ 3600 rpm
- Horsepower: 6.3 hp / 4.7 kW
- Gross Torque: 9.5 lb-ft
- Fuel tank volume (with reserve): 0.69 gal.
- Transmission type Friction: Disc
- Transmission steps forward: 6
- Transmission steps reverse: 1
- Tire size: 380 mm / 15 “
- Handle height adjustment: 4 steps
- Base machine, length: 58.5 inch
- Base machine, width: 24 inch
- Base machine, height: 40.5 inch
- Sound pressure level at operators ear: 88.4 dB(A)
- Sound power level, measured: 99 dB(A)
- Sound power level, guaranteed (LWA): 105 dB(A)
- Vibrations handles: 5.74 m/s²
If you want to explore other two-stage snow blowers models then read our in-depth article.
Husqvarna Snow Throwing Tips
- Go slower in deep, freezing or heavy wet snow. Use the drive speed control, NOT the ON / OFF switch, to adjust speed.
- It is easier and more efficient to remove snow immediately after it falls.
- The best time to remove snow is the early morning. At this time the snow is usually dry and has not been exposed to the direct sun and warming temperatures.
- Slightly overlap each successive path to ensure all snow will be removed.
- Throw snow downwind whenever possible.
- Adjust the skid plates to proper height for current snow conditions. See “TO ADJUST SKID PLATES” in this section of the manual.
- For extremely heavy snow, reduce the width of snow removal by overlapping previous path and moving slowly.
- Keep engine clean and clear of snow during use. This will help air flow and extend engine life.
- After snow-throwing is completed, allow engine to run for a few minutes to melt snow and ice off the engine.
- Clean the entire snow thrower thoroughly after each use and wipe dry so it is ready for next use.
VIDEO | See these Husqvarna Snowblowers Up Close
Husqvarna ST2227 / 27″ Gas Snow Blower
254cc / 27″ clearing width / Power Steering / Available at Tractor Supply
The Husqvarna ST230P is a step up from the ST224 and the Husqvarna ST224P (power steering) in terms of power. It has a 291cc engine so expect this to clear snow at a much faster rate and overall be more efficient in deep snow. It has a clearing width of 30 inches and a snow removal height of 12 inches.
For the full review, read our dedicated article : Husqvarna ST230P Review
Features:
- Steering Assist.
- Ribbon auger.
- X-trac, heavy-tread tires.
- LED headlight/s
- Electric starter
- Remote chute rotator
- Includes clearing stick to clear snow stuck on the chute.
- It works regardless of surface type
- Clears snow up to 18 inches.
- two-stage system with high throwing capacity
- industry exclusive 4-position height adjustment
- adjustable handles for optimal comfort
- Friction-disc transmission
Ariens Sno-Tek — 920402 / DISCONTINUED
Two-stage snow blower with a 24-inch clearing width.
Features:
- 9.5 ft/lb, 208cc Sno-Tek engine with 120V electric start delivers the power you need to handle a variety of snow conditions.
- Interlocking control levers allow for one-handed operation, freeing the other hand to reposition the chute without stopping.
- Robust all-steel dash panel and controls withstand the elements.
- Durable polymer chute with 2.5x Quick Turn and 205-degree rotation.
- Remote chute deflector to easily control the height of the snow plume.
- 24-inch wide, 20-inch tall housing features a rolled top lip and offset leading edges for unmatched strength and durability.
- Top-load aluminum gear case with alloy steel gears and synthetic gear oil ensure long life.
- Large, freeze-resistant 12-inch, 3-blade high-speed impeller throws snow fast and far for quick, efficient snow removal.
- Serrated steel augers relentlessly work through packed snow and ice pulling it into a powerful impeller.
- Aggressive 13″ x 4″ Polar Trac tires provide traction to overcome slippery conditions.
- Pin-lock axle that provides maneuverability when unlocked, or maximum traction when locked.
This Ariens Sno-Tek is one of the highest rated snow blowers on the market. It starts right away, handles easily in deep snow and can plow through 2 feet of snow with ease. Overall this is an excellent 2-stage snow blower in this price range. It’s engineered for homeowners who live in areas where heavy snowfalls are expected year after year.
Husqvarna ST330T | **Discontinued
414cc / Clearing width: 30″ / Intake height: 23″
Features:
- Two-stage system: Snow is fed into the housing by an auger and then discharged through the chute by an impeller.
- Track drive system: Our track drive system ensures efficient accessibility of hard packed snow and slopes. Low ground pressure and grip safe cleats provide solid traction and sturdiness.
- Power steering: Convenient trigger control power steering allows superior maneuverability in adverse conditions.
- Hydrostatic drive system: Infinitely variable hydrostatic drive system provides convenient driving with optimum control.
- Heavy-duty auger housing: The robust and durable auger housing gives sturdy operation, efficient snow clearing and long product lifetime.
- Heavy-duty auger: The robust auger gives first-class results operating in frozen as well as in extremely wet snow.
- Cast iron auger gearbox: Heavy-duty auger gearbox for maximum durability (10-year warranty).
- Electric starter: Connect to a power outlet and start the engine by pressing a button. Our starter system ensures that you’ll never have to worry about a dead battery.
View or download the MANUAL for the Husqvarna ST330T.
Video | Husqvarna ST330T
Husqvarna ST 330T has been developed for landowners who need a high-capacity, robust and durable snow thrower with superior traction that comfortably clears large areas. It has been designed for frequent use in all snow conditions, 15-60 cm.
The efficient track drive system ensures accessibility on hard packed snow as well as on slopes. For easy operation, it features a two-stage system, hydrostatic transmission and power steering. Throughout, it has heavy-duty components for maximum durability in all conditions, such as its robust auger housing, cast iron auger gear box and cast iron impeller. Features heated handle grips, LED headlight and electric starter for work in all weather conditions.
YakTrax Pro | Snow Clearing Safety Gear
The Yaktrax Pro will help make snow clearing less risky. Designed to instantly give you improved traction and safety of packed snow and ice. They fit over most footwear. Inexpensive and effective.
As you know, pushing around a heavy snow blower on icy surfaces has risks. Safety should always be your primary concern. Having the YakTrax under your feet will make it easier to use your snow blower by giving you a more stable surface while you work in challenging conditions. A definite must if you care about your personal safety.
Features:
- Spikeless, ultra lightweight design.
- 360° of traction with patented skid lock coil system.
- Durable natural rubber outerband for flexible fit.
- Abrasion resistant 1.4mm steel coils.
- Removable strap ensures secure fit.
- Heel tab allows for easy installation and removal.
- Shaped coil.
