First storm watch · 25 winter products rated · prices re-checked weekly through January

Guides

Oct 2026

First winter: the essentials checklist for new snow-country homeowners

You do not need a garage full of gear. You need six things before the first storm, in this order, and a reason to skip the rest.

Oct 2026

Space heaters: which type for which room, and the rules that keep them safe

Every 1,500-watt heater makes the same heat. The differences are noise, how it spreads, and what happens when a blanket lands on it.

Oct 2026

Before the first storm: the pre-season snow blower checklist

An hour in October saves the carburetor swap in January. Gas machines want fresh fuel and oil; battery machines want a warm place for the packs.

Oct 2026

The trunk kit: what rides in the car from November to April

Three layers, one bag and a broom: seeing out, getting unstuck, and staying warm if you cannot.

Oct 2026

Battery or gas: which snow blower for your winter

Battery two-stage machines now clear a wet two-car driveway; what they still cannot do is wait a week between storms. Where you live decides.