How Wheel Loaders Can Make Snow Days Easier

Thu October 30, 2025
Darren Ashton and Eric Yeomans — SPECIAL TO CEG

As you prepare for another winter of snow removal, perhaps you're tuning up your skid steer or compact track loader or adding a blade to a truck.

But have you ever considered a wheel loader for this type of work? Let's take a look at what makes compact wheel loaders (CWLs) and larger models smart choices, depending on the size of your snowy job site.

Why a Wheel Loader?

Wheel loaders offer impressive versatility that you may not know you need until you experience it. For one thing, they can take on an impressive variety of attachments. Here are some good options for wintery work:

● A snow pusher blows it straight forward, which works well for moving large amounts of snow into a pile.

● A snow blower throws it up and away from the loader — typically into piles, but sometimes crews will blow the snow directly into a truck bed as they move in tandem.

● A plowing blade can be straight, angled or V-shaped, and can be adjusted to an angle that directs the snow where you want it to go.

● A rollout bucket provides increased dump height by hydraulically rotating the bucket forward at the top of its lift.

● A snow broom features a spinning brush that works well for tossing lighter, drier snow out of the way.

● A sand or salt spreader on the back of the machine allows you to multi-task by providing traction where you just cleared the snow. (Not all regions or brands offer this, so check with your equipment dealer.)

Make sure that your attachment is wider than the loader so your wheels don't pack uncleared material, and add a counterweight to larger models for stability if necessary.

The wheels themselves are another big advantage. Tracks might reduce ground disturbance or give better flotation in soft conditions, but those are not factors when we're talking about frozen ground or finished surfaces like asphalt roads and concrete parking lots. Wheels are kinder to these surfaces, and they're typically less costly and complex to repair or replace.

Tracks have a lot more moving parts than wheels, and the fewer moving parts you have in cold temps, the better. Plus, tracks are more likely to get snow packed into them, compromising your traction.

Visibility also is critical in wintery conditions, and there can be significant differences across machine types. For compact equipment, a CWL offers a higher vantage point than a skid steer or track loader and often has a larger window or windshield so the operator can see more of their surroundings. On larger models, a 360-degree camera system can eliminate blind spots with a combined bird's-eye view, reducing the risk of collision with pedestrians, equipment or other obstacles.

In general, wheel loaders are operator friendly, and they maneuver better for lifting and dumping. With their array of features and attachment compatibility, it's smart to work with your local dealer to determine the options that will work best for your needs.

Factors in Wheel Loader Selection

If you're moving snow on sidewalks or in a small area — especially where buildings or other obstacles are a factor — a CWL below 75 hp is the right fit. For bigger snow removal jobs like commercial properties and school parking lots, you'll want a model above 75 hp, and for even larger sites like airports and large retail centers, models up to 300 hp will be most efficient.

Key features to look for:

● The best possible lighting — This work is often done at night or very early in the morning. LED lights are especially advantageous.

● A hydraulic quick coupler — In frigid temperatures, you'll appreciate every minute saved when swapping attachments.

● High-flow hydraulics — These allow an attachment to operate at full speed and torque, even under heavy loads.

● Heated mirrors — It's definitely a perk to be able to keep them clean without leaving the warmth of the cab.

● Winter tires — These enhance safety and performance in cold conditions by improving traction, reducing stopping distances and boosting fuel efficiency.

You also should look for models that offer the ability to select full differential locks for the front and limited slip for the rear. This transfers power to the wheel(s) with more grip, preventing one wheel from spinning out while others remain stationary.

This should go without saying, but make sure to operate at a speed that will keep you in control. Snow can hide obstacles (like chunks of ice and manhole covers) that can cause damage to your machine or injure the operator. The importance of regular maintenance checks also can't be overstated.

Additional Considerations

If you run a diesel machine with more than 74 hp, DEF also is part of the equation. DEF issues can cause a lot of costly damage, so it's essential that you manage it correctly. Most modern machines include heating elements to keep DEF from freezing while in operation, but storage and handling are another story.

DEF should be stored at temperatures between 12 and 86°F, in a container that allows room for expansion. You should regularly check it for clarity. If it's warm enough for any crystals to have dissolved but it's still cloudy or off-color, that could indicate contamination or quality issues. It may be wise to use insulated dispensing systems to avoid line blockages and choose a wheel loader that has DEF sight gauges and a splash guard to reduce chances of contamination.

Electric loaders also can work for snow removal in many regions. These machines are significantly quieter, which can be an advantage for nighttime and early morning work. Fully electric machines also eliminate the need for fuel, DEF and other engine-related supplies, which can offset their higher purchase price faster than you might think. Talk with your dealer or OEM about using a battery-powered machine in cold weather — you may be surprised how well it can work.

Whether you love or dread the snow, we can all agree that having the right equipment to handle it makes all the difference. If a wheel loader could be that solution for you, talk to your equipment partner now before the first flakes fly.

(Reprinted with permission from Volvo. Darren Ashton is the product manager — compact equipment and Eric Yeomans is the product manager — large wheel loaders of Volvo Construction Equipment)

This story also appears on Construction Equipment Guide.