Snow Clearing Just Got Easier with the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Snow Blower
The winter blues are still in full swing in many parts of the U.S., and unfortunately, that can come with heaps of snow. If you’re ready for a gas-free snowblower upgrade, Milwaukee’s new M18 Fuel 21-inch model has some compelling features. Is it worth the switch? I’ll dig deeper into what this model has to offer so you know what to expect.
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Milwaukee M18 Fuel Snow Blower Overview
- Model: Milwaukee 3036
- Brushless Motor
- Peak Power: 7.5HP
- Clearing Width: 21 in
- Clearing Height: 12 in
- Throw Distance: 35 ft (front); 30 ft (side)
- Single Stage
- Max Runtime: 1750 sq. ft (w/ two 12.0Ah batteries)
- Gas Equivalence: 252cc
- Weight: 83 lbs
The 3036 is Milwaukee’s first M18 Fuel snow blower. The brand claims this model is the most powerful single-stage snow blower, reaching a peak 7.5HP. With a clearing width of 21 inches, it’s ideal for driveways, patios, sidewalks, and other residential outdoor snow clearing. Milwaukee tells us they designed it to clear snow up to 12 inches deep.
This snow blower has an adjustable chute that can be moved left and right, throwing snow up to 30 feet to the side and 35 feet to the front. The chute features an extra-wide design meant to reduce stalling by processing snow more efficiently.
The auger-propelled design also helps crews work faster and more efficiently. While the wheels aren’t forward-powered as we see in something like a self-propelled lawn mower, the rubberized auger pulls the snow blower forward as it hits the pavement, allowing for faster clearing than manual-push machines.
As a single-stage snow blower, Milwaukee recommends the 3036 only be used for clearing snow on paved surfaces. Those clearing heavy snow on uneven surfaces like gravel or hilly terrain should look into a 2-stage (or, in extreme conditions, 3-stage) snow blower.
Batteries and Runtime
This snow blower requires two M18 batteries for use, and it’s kitted with two 12.0Ah batteries (432 total Wh). Using those, you can clear up to 1,750 square feet per charge in snow around 6 inches deep. That translates to up to 11 car spaces, or a 500-foot section of 3.5-foot sidewalk.
There are a total of four active battery terminals, letting you add up to two additional batteries to extend your runtime.
Additional Features
- Handle-Mounted Headlights: Prevent snow buildup on the lights and illuminate the entire working area.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Snow Blower Price
This tool retails for $1,499 as a kit, including two M18 RedLithium Forge 12.0Ah batteries and a Dual-Bay Simultaneous Rapid Charger. Currently, Milwaukee does not offer this snow blower as a bare tool. Milwaukee backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty.
If you’re after more runtime, there are also several bundles at The Home Depot that offer additional batteries with your purchase. At the time of writing, we see a $1,999 kit including six batteries and two chargers, as well as a $2449 kit which includes six batteries, three chargers, and a backpack blower.
Should You Buy It?
If you’re tired of winter cord pulls, gas fumes, and excess noise, Milwaukee has made a compelling case for cordless power with the 3036 snow blower. While the $1500 startup price could be a barrier if you’re on a budget, the two kitted batteries will come in handy in the off-season for Milwaukee’s other M18 Fuel lawn care equipment.
However, it’s a single-stage unit, so it has some limitations just like single-stage gas models do. If you’re a professional who offers snow-clearing services, this is a solid choice for areas that receive lighter snowfalls or for those parts of the season when you don’t need the higher power and capacity of your 2-stage or 3-stage models.
