Husqvarna ST224 Snow Blower, 212-cc 5.9-HP, 24-Inch Snow Thrower, Friction Disc Transmission, Two Stage with Push Button Electric Start and Power Steering, Orange
The Husqvarna ST224 Snow Blower is a powerful, gas-powered machine designed for homeowners who need reliable snow removal for large driveways and paths. With its 212cc engine, two-stage system, and impressive 24-inch clearing width, this snow blower tackles heavy snowfalls with ease. It offers features like power steering, electric start, and adjustable controls, making it one of the most user-friendly options for handling deep or packed snow. Whether dealing with light powder or wet, heavy drifts, the Husqvarna ST224 delivers dependable performance in a durable package.
Pros:
Cons:
Features & Functionality
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The Husqvarna ST224 offers a range of features that cater to both performance and user convenience, making it a standout in its class. One of its most appealing aspects is the two-stage system, which significantly boosts its efficiency compared to single-stage models. In a two-stage system, the auger first collects the snow, then an impeller throws it out through the chute. This setup not only improves snow processing but also increases the distance the snow is thrown—ideal for larger areas where you don’t want piles of snow accumulating too close to the blower. This two-stage design, combined with the high-speed impeller, ensures that the snow is propelled far away from the clearing path, making it easier to maintain wide, open spaces like large driveways or pathways.
Another key feature is the electric start system, which is a real game-changer in cold weather conditions. Traditional gas-powered machines often require strenuous pulls to get the engine running, especially in freezing temperatures. The push-button electric start of the ST224 eliminates this hassle entirely, ensuring a smooth start every time, even when the mercury drops. This convenience, combined with the throttle control that allows you to idle down the engine when it’s not in use, improves both usability and fuel efficiency.
The adjustable chute and deflector also enhance the snow blower’s versatility. The remote chute control allows you to change the direction the snow is being thrown without stopping or repositioning the machine. You can rotate the chute up to 180 degrees, giving you full control over where the snow lands. The deflector lever, which adjusts the vertical angle of the throw, lets you fine-tune the height and distance of the snow being propelled. These intuitive controls are particularly useful when dealing with varying snow conditions, from light and fluffy snow that requires less effort to throw to wet, heavy snow that needs to be handled more aggressively.
Additionally, the power steering and semi-pneumatic tires with non-clogging tread enhance the overall maneuverability of the Husqvarna ST224. Power steering allows users to make sharp turns and navigate tight spaces more easily, which is a huge advantage for anyone dealing with obstacles like parked cars or tight walkways. The semi-pneumatic tires are designed to maintain traction even in deep snow, and their tread pattern ensures that snow doesn’t get packed into the tires, reducing the risk of slippage and minimizing maintenance.
Design & Build Quality
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Husqvarna is known for producing robust outdoor equipment, and the ST224 is no exception. Its sturdy construction includes a durable auger housing that can withstand the harshest winter conditions. The heavy-duty auger itself is equipped with covered ball bearings, which protect against wear and tear, ensuring a longer lifespan for the machine. This is particularly useful for homeowners in regions that experience long and intense winters.
The adjustable skid shoes add another layer of thoughtful design. These plastic shoes can be raised or lowered, depending on the surface being cleared. For example, if you’re working on a gravel driveway, raising the skid shoes prevents the auger from picking up loose stones. On the flip side, lowering them on a paved surface ensures the closest possible clean sweep of snow without damaging the ground.
One minor drawback is its weight. At 201 pounds, the ST224 is quite heavy, making it less portable for some users. However, the inclusion of power steering offsets this to a degree, but it’s something to consider for anyone who may struggle with heavier equipment.
Power & Performance
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When it comes to power, the Husqvarna ST224 excels with its 212cc engine, which provides 5.9 horsepower—a substantial amount for residential snow blowers. This robust engine allows the ST224 to power through varying snow conditions with ease, from light dustings to deeper, more compact snow. Its engine displacement of 212 cubic centimeters ensures that the machine has enough torque to handle wet, heavy snow, which can be particularly challenging for smaller or less powerful models. This power translates to a smoother and faster snow-clearing experience, especially in regions that experience frequent or heavy snowfalls.
The hydrostatic transmission is another important aspect of the ST224’s performance. This type of transmission, commonly found in higher-end models, provides a smoother and more reliable ride than traditional belt-driven systems. The six forward speeds and one reverse speed offer flexibility for different conditions. For example, the lower speeds allow for careful navigation in deep or wet snow, while the higher speeds make quick work of lighter snowfalls. The reverse speed, while only one step, is a useful addition for backing out of tight corners or repositioning the blower, although some users may find it slower than expected in certain situations.
The two-stage system is a critical element of the ST224’s performance. As mentioned earlier, this design uses both an auger and an impeller, which increases the snow-clearing capacity and distance. The ribbon auger used in the ST224 is a unique feature—it mixes air into the snow, making it lighter and easier to throw. This not only improves the efficiency of the snow-blowing process but also ensures that the impeller can throw the snow farther, up to 30-35 feet depending on conditions. Whether you’re clearing a large driveway, a long path, or a sidewalk, this increased throwing distance is a major advantage, preventing the need for multiple passes over the same area.
In terms of coverage, the 24-inch clearing width is an optimal size for most residential needs. It’s wide enough to cover a substantial area in fewer passes but still narrow enough to maneuver around obstacles or through tight spaces. The 12-inch intake height complements this by allowing the ST224 to handle snowfalls of up to a foot deep, which is ideal for moderate to heavy winter conditions. The machine is also capable of clearing up to 2,000 pounds of snow per minute, a significant capacity that reduces the time spent outside in cold temperatures.
A noteworthy point in the ST224’s performance profile is the noise level. At 100 dB(A), this snow blower is on the louder side, especially when compared to electric models. However, for a gas-powered machine of its size and power, the noise is within expected limits. For users concerned about noise, wearing hearing protection during operation can mitigate the impact. The 85 dB(A) sound pressure level at the operator’s ear is still significant, but again, it is a tradeoff for the power and performance delivered by the gas engine.
Storage & Maintenance
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While the Husqvarna ST224 offers excellent snow-clearing performance, it does require regular maintenance, like all gas-powered equipment. Routine tasks like changing the oil, checking the spark plugs, and refueling the 88.32 fl oz tank are necessary to keep the machine in top shape. It’s also important to ensure the friction-disc transmission remains properly lubricated for smooth operation over time.
Storage-wise, the ST224’s 58.5-inch length and 24-inch width can be cumbersome for those with limited space. While it may not fit easily in a small shed or garage, the interlock handle does offer some flexibility in folding down, making it slightly more compact for storage. For anyone in areas with heavy, consistent snowfalls, investing in a snowblower cover is a good idea to protect the machine from the elements when not in use.
Husqvarna’s semi-pneumatic tires are another plus in terms of maintenance. Their non-clogging tread design helps prevent snow buildup, reducing the need to stop frequently to clear the tires. These tires also provide excellent traction, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces, minimizing the need for additional maintenance on hard-packed snow or icy patches.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Husqvarna ST224?
The Husqvarna ST224 Snow Blower is a top-tier choice for homeowners in need of reliable, high-powered snow removal equipment. With its robust engine, user-friendly features like electric start and power steering, and excellent snow-throwing capacity, it’s ideal for those who frequently deal with heavy snowfall. While its weight and noise level may be drawbacks for some, its overall performance and durability make it a worthy investment for medium to large properties.
If you’re looking for a snow blower that can handle various types of snow, from light dustings to wet, heavy accumulations, and you have space for a larger machine, the Husqvarna ST224 should be at the top of your list.
