Milwaukee’s newest offering, the M18 Fuel cordless snow blower (model 3036-22HD), presents a compelling alternative to traditional gas-powered machines.
My initial testing revealed a surprisingly capable device, exceeding expectations compared to a two-season-old competitor.
However, a closer examination highlights certain limitations that warrant consideration.
I conducted two primary tests: the first, clearing approximately six inches of snow using a single set of M18 FORGE 12Ah batteries, and the second, tackling two inches of heavier snow with a total of four batteries.
Throughout these evaluations, the blower demonstrated remarkable reliability, avoiding stalls even under significant battery load.
Despite its power, the machine didn’t achieve the pristine driveway finish of some older models, generating considerable snow spray that required frequent chute adjustments.
I attributed this primarily to the machine’s design and the nature of the snow itself, though a slight breeze may have contributed.
While the wheels performed adequately during operation, maneuvering the blower across even shallow accumulations proved challenging, reflecting a preference for the greater mobility of larger, two-stage snow blowers.
Notably, a small amount of moisture was observed within the battery compartment during the second test, though I don't anticipate this being a recurring issue.
The controls are intuitive, featuring a power button, safety bar, light toggle, and battery power gauges.
Adjusting the chute direction and height is straightforward, though some fine-tuning may be necessary for optimal snow dispersal.
Despite its size and a slightly cumbersome assembly process, the blower’s compact vertical storage design offers a space-saving advantage.
Overall, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel snow blower is a potent cordless option, but its specific characteristics suggest it’s best suited for homeowners seeking a high-performance unit rather than those prioritizing effortless portability.