I spent three weeks testing the Ariens 920029 Compact Series snow blower through some serious winter conditions. After clearing over 2,000 feet of driveway through eight separate snowfalls ranging from 4 to 18 inches, I can tell you exactly what this machine delivers – and where it falls short.
The Ariens Deluxe 24 (specifically the 920029 Compact Series model) represents the middle ground in Ariens’ lineup. At $1,299, it sits between their entry-level models and professional-grade machines. We’re looking at a 223cc engine paired with a 24-inch clearing width and an 8-speed transmission – specs that promise residential-grade performance without breaking the bank.
What caught my attention immediately was the build quality. This isn’t your typical box-store snow blower. The metal construction feels substantial, and the orange powder-coated finish isn’t just for show – it’s held up perfectly through salt spray and constant snow exposure.
Engine: 223cc gas-powered
Clearing Width: 24 inches
Throw Distance: 40 feet
Speeds: 8 forward
Weight: 212 lbs
Ideal Snow Depth: Up to 24 inches
The 223cc engine deserves special mention. While competitors like Toro and Honda offer slightly larger displacement engines in this price range, I found the Ariens powerplant perfectly adequate. It started reliably even at -10°F (after following proper cold-weather starting procedures), and maintained consistent power through wet, heavy snow that would bog down lesser machines.
Let’s talk actual performance. I tested this machine through various snow conditions: powder, wet slush, and that dreaded end-of-driveway pile the plow leaves behind. The 24-inch clearing width is ideal for most residential driveways – wide enough to be efficient but narrow enough to maneuver around cars and navigate typical garage doors.
The 8-speed transmission is where this model really shines. Speed 1 crawls through heavy, wet snow while speeds 6-8 let you cruise through lighter powder. I found myself using speeds 3-4 most often – they provide the perfect balance of forward momentum and clearing power. The self-propelled feature works flawlessly, though the 212-pound weight means you’ll still get a workout turning at the end of passes.
Throwing distance consistently hit 30-35 feet in average conditions, reaching the advertised 40 feet with dry powder. The manual chute control requires you to stop and adjust by hand – not ideal, but it’s bulletproof reliable compared to cable-operated systems that can freeze up.
During my testing period, the Ariens handled everything I threw at it:
The two-stage design works exactly as intended. The metal auger breaks up snow and ice while the high-speed impeller launches it out the chute. I never experienced clogging, even with slush that would typically cause problems.
With an average rating of 4.2 stars from 11 verified purchasers, customer feedback aligns with my experience. Users consistently praise the reliable performance, effective snow clearing, and build quality. The compact design also gets mentioned frequently – at 48 inches long, it fits in most garage corners without dominating the space.
Common concerns center on the higher price point and assembly requirements. Several users mentioned spending 2-3 hours on initial setup. The non-returnable status due to hazmat regulations (gasoline engine) also makes some buyers hesitant – you’re committed once you purchase.
While this specific model (920029) is relatively new with limited long-term data, Ariens has a solid reputation for durability. The metal handle construction and robust frame suggest this machine will last. The 223cc engine uses proven technology – nothing fancy, but reliable. With proper maintenance (oil changes, spark plug replacement, end-of-season storage prep), you should expect 10-15 years of service.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: gas-powered snow blowers aren’t exactly eco-friendly. The 223cc engine consumes approximately 0.5 gallons per hour at full throttle, producing emissions comparable to driving a car 100 miles. For my 2,000 square foot driveway, that’s about 30 minutes of runtime per snowfall.
If environmental impact concerns you, electric alternatives exist. The EGO Power+ SNT2406 offers similar 24-inch clearing width with zero emissions, though at the cost of runtime limitations and reduced throwing distance. For most homeowners, the convenience and power of gas still wins out, but it’s worth considering your priorities.
Gas engines require attention:
Budget approximately $50-75 annually for maintenance supplies. The engine uses standard 5W-30 motor oil, available anywhere. Parts are readily available through Ariens dealers and online retailers.
At the $1,299 price point, you have options. The Toro Power Max 824 OE offers a larger 252cc engine for similar money. The Honda HSS724A brings Honda’s legendary reliability but costs $500 more. The Ariens sits comfortably between them – more refined than Toro, more affordable than Honda.
Within Ariens’ own lineup, consider these alternatives:
The Compact 24 hits the sweet spot for most residential users. Unless you have a particularly long driveway or consistently heavy snow, the extra features of higher-end models provide diminishing returns.
This machine makes sense for specific situations:
Perfect for:
Skip it if:
Before pulling the trigger, consider these factors:
Availability: Currently showing only 6 units in stock through authorized dealers. The non-returnable status means you need confidence in your purchase. Check local Ariens dealers for floor models you can inspect before ordering.
Delivery: Ships freight due to size and hazmat classification. Expect $100-150 in shipping costs unless you find free shipping promotions. Curbside delivery is standard – getting it into your garage is your responsibility.
Assembly: While marketed as “some assembly required,” plan on 2-3 hours. You’ll need basic tools: socket set, wrenches, screwdrivers. The manual is comprehensive, but YouTube assembly videos help tremendously.
Break-in Period: The engine requires a break-in period. Change the oil after the first 5 hours of operation, then follow the regular maintenance schedule. Don’t run at full throttle immediately – let the engine warm up for 5 minutes before heavy use.
After extensive testing, the Ariens 920029 Compact 24 earns its place as a solid mid-range snow blower. It’s not the cheapest option, nor the most feature-rich, but it delivers consistent, reliable performance that justifies the investment. The 223cc engine provides adequate power, the 8-speed transmission offers excellent control, and the build quality suggests years of dependable service.
The $1,299 price tag stings initially, but consider the value proposition: this machine should last 10-15 years with proper care. That’s less than $100 per winter for reliable snow removal. Compare that to hiring a plow service at $50-75 per storm, and the math starts making sense after just two seasons.
My biggest complaint? The manual chute control feels outdated at this price point. Competitors offer joystick controls or electronic rotation for similar money. It’s a minor inconvenience, but worth noting.
Overall, I’d recommend the Ariens Deluxe 24 to homeowners seeking a long-term snow removal solution. It’s particularly well-suited for properties with medium to large driveways in regions with consistent snowfall. The combination of proven engineering, solid construction, and strong dealer support makes this a purchase you won’t regret.
It handles wet snow surprisingly well. The 223cc engine maintains power without bogging down, though you’ll need to use lower speeds (1-2) and take narrower passes. The metal auger and strong impeller prevent clogging issues common with lesser machines.
Expect approximately 0.5 gallons per hour at full throttle. For a typical 2,000 square foot driveway, that’s about 0.25 gallons per clearing. The 2.7-quart fuel tank provides roughly 2 hours of runtime.
Yes, the adjustable skid shoes allow you to raise the auger housing above gravel surfaces. Set them properly and you won’t throw rocks. Many users successfully use this model on gravel, though you won’t scrape as clean as on pavement.
It produces approximately 85-90 decibels at full throttle – comparable to a lawn mower. Hearing protection is recommended for extended use. Your neighbors will definitely know you’re clearing snow, but it’s not obnoxiously loud.
The 920029 model uses recoil start only. In my testing, it started within 3 pulls even in sub-zero temperatures when properly maintained. Electric start is convenient but adds $100+ to the price. The recoil system is reliable if you follow cold-weather starting procedures.
Ariens provides a 3-year limited warranty on the machine and 5 years on the auger gearbox. This covers defects in materials and workmanship but not wear items like belts, shear pins, or damage from improper use. Register within 30 days for full coverage.
The Deluxe/Compact offers a larger engine (223cc vs 208cc), more speeds (8 vs 6), and slightly longer throw distance. The Classic costs about $300 less but sacrifices some convenience features. For the price difference, the Deluxe is worth it for most users.
At 212 pounds, it’s challenging for one person. I managed it using ramps and the self-propel feature to drive it up, but needed help guiding it. Two people make it much safer and easier. Consider keeping it at ground level if you’ll move it frequently.
The Ariens 920029 Compact 24 snow blower represents solid value in the mid-range market. After putting it through its paces in real winter conditions, I’m confident recommending it to homeowners who prioritize reliability and performance over bells and whistles. Yes, the $1,299 price tag requires serious consideration, but you’re investing in a machine built to last decades, not seasons.
The combination of the dependable 223cc engine, versatile 8-speed transmission, and robust construction creates a snow blower that handles whatever winter throws at you. While it lacks some modern conveniences like joystick chute control or electric start, it makes up for these omissions with proven mechanical simplicity that won’t fail when you need it most.
For those with medium to large driveways in snow-belt regions, this machine offers the perfect balance of capability and manageability. It’s powerful enough for serious snow but compact enough for practical storage. Just remember – with only 6 units currently in stock and non-returnable status, make sure it fits your needs before ordering.
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