If you’re looking to buy your first snowblower or upgrade to a bigger machine, knowing the different snowblower types can make you a smarter shopper.

Single- or two-stage snowblowers — which is best for you? Choosing the best snowblower for your needs really depends on the type of snow you have to move. Both single-stage and two-stage machines are great for clearing snow from your driveway and sidewalk, but they remove the snow differently, and each works best in different types of snow situations.

How Toro Snowblowers Work

Single- and two-stage machines remove snow using different throwing actions. With a single-stage snowblower, a high-speed rotor gathers and throws the snow in one efficient motion. This type of snowblower cleans down to the pavement, eliminating the need to go back and shovel or sweep. Single-stage machines are great for most paved driveways and sidewalks. Because they clean down to the pavement, they should not be used on unpaved surfaces. They are best used to clear 2” to 9” of snow at a time and work well in wet slushy snow (due to the scooping action of their rubber paddles).  For deeper snows — regardless of whether you’re using a single-stage or two-stage model -- it is always best to clear it in the middle of the storm and again at the end. 

A two-stage snowblower is typically bigger and more powerful, making it a good choice for deep snow. If you live in an area that receives a lot of snow each year, a two-stage snowblower can be the way to go. It’s perfect for tackling “lake effect” snow, snowfalls of 12 inches or more, or big snow drifts. Toro two-stage machines first gather the snow in with a heavy-duty, serrated auger. Then, a high-speed impeller takes over, launching the snow from the chute, and throwing it out of your way. Two-stage snowblowers are perfect for large driveways, gravel surfaces, and compacted snow.  

Toro has developed an online tool to help you choose your next snowblower. Visit the snow selector tool to help determine which model is right for you.   

Look for Toro’s line of snowblowers at your local authorized Toro dealer or buy online at www.torodealer.com. Select models can be purchased at The Home Depot stores. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205. 

About the Toro Company: The Toro Company (NYSE: TTC) is a leading worldwide provider of innovative turf, landscape, rental and construction equipment, and  irrigation and outdoor lighting solutions.  With sales of more than $1.9 billion in fiscal 2012, Toro’s global presence extends to more than 90 countries through strong relationships built on integrity and trust, constant innovation, and a commitment to helping customers enrich the beauty, productivity and sustainability of the land.  Since 1914, the company has built a tradition of excellence around a number of strong brands to help customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, and agricultural fields.  

This press release is presented without editing for your information.   GRIT  does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase.      

This season, trade in that shovel for the convenience of a Toro electric snowblower. With the #1 brand of electric snowblowers in the U.S., Toro offers three environmentally friendly options with power that will surprise you. The Toro Power Shovel®, the new 1500 Power Curve® and the 1800 Power Curve® are all easy-to-use and virtually maintenance free. Just plug them in, and you’re ready to take on whatever Mother Nature dishes out.

Toro 1800 Power Curve  

The 1800 Power Curve is perfect for removing snow from small driveways, patios and sidewalks. This single-stage snowblower pairs the features you need with the advantages of electric power. Thanks to Toro’s patented Power Curve technology, the 1800 Power Curve can throw up to 700 pounds of snow per minute, tossing it up to 30 feet out of the way. With the Power Curve system, a curved rotor with wide paddles clears snow down to the pavement.  Its powerful 15 amp motor gives it the highest power-to-width ratio in its class.
 
Weighing only 25 pounds, this snowblower is simple to maneuver and compact enough for easy storage. Best of all, the 1800 Power Curve is packed with all the handy “extras” you need to get your task completed quickly. Toro's Zip Deflector allows you to change -- and then lock -- the angle of the thrown snow to match your needs, while the quick-turn chute lever makes adjusting the direction of snow fast and easy. An ergonomic handle and larger wheels keep you in control and comfortable. When you’re ready to take on the latest snowstorm, just plug in the 1800 Power Curve and go. Since it’s electric, there is no need for gas or oil.

This nimble, virtually maintenance-free machine retails for $319.99 (MSRP) and is covered by a two-year full warranty (see retailer for warranty details).

New Toro 1500 Power Curve  

The new 1500 Power Curve offers another great electric option for snow removal. Its 15-inch clearing width can take on walkways and small driveways with ease. This machine uses Toro’s Power Curve technology to move up to 500 pounds of snow per minute, throwing it up to 25 feet away. The direction of the thrown snow can be easily changed with the chute lever that doubles as a lift handle.  It also features Toro's patented Zip Deflector technology and an easy-to-use chute lever.

Its unique controls allow you to easily and intuitively use either hand to operate the snowblower.  The ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to operate, and with Qwik Key™ starting, the removable key doubles as the on/off switch.

This compact snowblower is simple to use and easy to store. It weighs only 25 pounds and is covered by a two-year full warranty (see retailer for warranty details). Look for this new machine at Toro dealers and select retailers starting at $219.99 (MSRP).

Toro Power Shovel 

Save time – and your back – with the Power Shovel. This powerful machine does the work for you, tackling snow up to six inches deep on any hard surface. It’s the perfect tool for cleaning snow from patios, walkways and decks. The Power Shovel is also great for those lighter snowfalls when your snow removal service doesn’t cover the job, or for clearing areas where a larger snowblower won’t reach.

Weighing only 13 pounds, the Power Shovel is lightweight, maneuverable and easy to use. When not in use, it’s simple to store – even indoors.  It’s a great gift for any homeowner, from single-family dwellers to townhome owners.

This eco-friendly, electric shovel retails for $119.99 (MSRP) and is covered by a two-year full warranty (see retailer for warranty details). Look for the Power Shovel, the new 1500 Power Curve, and the 1800 Power Curve on Amazon.com, torodealer.com, and at The Home Depot® stores. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205 or visit www.toro.com. Need help deciding which snowblower is right for you? Click to check out Toro’s online snowblower selector.

About The Toro Company 

The Toro Company is a leading worldwide provider of turf and landscape maintenance equipment, and irrigation solutions. With sales of nearly $1.9 billion in fiscal 2011, Toro’s global presence extends to more than 90 countries through its reputation of world-class service, innovation and turf expertise. Since 1914, the company has built a tradition of excellence around a number of strong brands to help customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, and agricultural fields. More information is available at www.toro.com.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Send the daunting drifts of snow back to where they came from with the new series of Toro^® Power Max^® Heavy Duty (HD) two-stage snowblowers. The new Power Max HD lineup offers four models to consider when looking to arm yourself against the elements with a commercial-grade two-stage snowblower.  

These machines utilize a two-step throwing process for efficient snow removal: first, the auger chews up the snow and ice that’s accumulated, then the impeller catapults the snow out of the chute. This process allows for operators to throw snow up to 45 feet and clear snow depths of up to 21.5 inches, making Toro two-stage snowblowers the tool of choice when winter weather hits.

Toro engineers have integrated several industry-leading features that make the new Power Max HD lineup ready to work and built to last, including…

• Anti-Clogging System - This patented system devours the deepest drifts and prevents clogging by cycling large chunks of snow and ice through the auger until they’re ready to throw.
• Quick Stick^® Technology - Ready, aim, and throw your snow wherever you choose with Toro’s Quick Stick chute control. Easily direct the placement of snow by depressing the lock control and moving the chute into position, all with one hand.
• Sub Zero Chute - Specially designed cold-weather material is durable in temperatures as low as -104° F and backed by a lifetime guarantee. Rust-free construction ensures no binding and prevents snow and ice from sticking.
• Commercial-Grade Auger Gear Box - The gears are what matter – not the gearbox housing.  These oversized gears are made from special material built so tough they don’t need shear pins to protect them (unlike competitive two-stage snowblowers).

Power Max HD models range from the Power Max HD 928 OE at $1,399 (MSRP) to the Power Max HD 1128 OXE for $2,099 (MSRP). All Toro two-stage snowblowers come with a three-year limited warranty (see retailer for warranty details).

Find the complete lineup of Toro snowblowers at your local authorized Toro dealer or buy online at www.torodealer.com. Select models also can be purchased online at www.homedepot.com. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205 or visit www.toro.com. Need help deciding which snowblower is right for you? Check out Toro’s online snowblower selector.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

With Toro^® Power Clear^® single-stage snowblowers, you’ll get the job done faster. In fact, these powerful, easy-to-use machines can cut up to a third of your time spent snowblowing when compared to a similarly equipped two-stage snowblower. That means you’ll be done snowblowing your driveway and out of the cold in no time. It’s no wonder professional snow removal crews use Toro single-stage snowblowers more than any other type of snowthrower to help them get their work done quickly. See the Toro Power Clear in action.

Toro Power Clear snowblowers are designed to take the work out of moving snow. They’re strong enough to take on the toughest snowstorm, yet maneuverable enough for nearly anyone to handle. Toro’s innovative features make the time-saving difference. The Power Propel System virtually eliminates the need to push or lift the machine. A unique pivoting scraper keeps the rotor in constant contact with the pavement, pulling the snowblower forward and clearing snow down to the pavement. The Power Curve^® rotor clears snows efficiently, throwing it up to 35 feet.

These machines feature Toro premium Overhead Valve (OHV) 4-cycle engines, so there’s no need to mix oil and gas. These special, cold-weather engines have been designed for maximum durability and performance over the life of the snowblower. Each one is tested and tuned at the factory to ensure the engine is adjusted for optimal performance. 

Operators can change the chute direction without slowing down, thanks to the Quick Shoot control. They simply squeeze the trigger and slide the handle-mounted grip to throw snow exactly where they want it. The Zip Deflector throws snow high, low, or in-between. In less than a second, it locks to any angle with ease and stays put.

Toro revolutionized the single-stage snowblower category 60 years ago and continues that tradition of innovation today. Look for Toro Power Clear snowblowers at your local authorized Toro dealer or on www. torodealer.com. Select models can be purchased at The Home Depot^® stores (www.homedepot.com). For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205 or visit www.toro.com. Need help deciding which snowblower is right for you? Check out Toro’s online snowblowerselector.

About The Toro Company 

The Toro Company is a leading worldwide provider of turf and landscape maintenance equipment, and irrigation solutions. With sales of nearly $1.9 billion in fiscal 2011, Toro’s global presence extends to more than 90 countries through its reputation of world-class service, innovation and turf expertise. Since 1914, the company has built a tradition of excellence around a number of strong brands to help customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, and agricultural fields. More information is available at www.toro.com.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

When your local forecast calls for the worst that winter can dish out, reach for the new, compact, and powerful lineup of Toro^® Power Max^® two-stage snowblowers. Deep snow has met its match with Toro -- and more than 60 years of proven machine performance.

Toro Power Max two-stage snowblowers offer incredible snow-moving capabilities at a great value. By tackling drifts up to 20” deep on the first pass, Power Max snowblowers clear the way quickly. Their 11-inch diameter serrated auger swallows the snow, pumping the powder through the impeller and out the chute, throwing it up to 40-feet away from your path. Power Max models feature special hardened auger gearbox gears that easily handle the stresses of all snow conditions, breaking up large drifts and the hard compacted snow left behind by the city plow. A unique, one-piece frame and a reinforced auger housing provide durability you can count on.

When snow builds up at the base of their chute, traditional snowblowers may clog, causing downtime. Toro’s patented Anti-Clogging System (ACS) is designed to keep you moving by rerouting excess snow back into the auger for further processing. The Power Max machine is the only snowblower on the market to feature this type of system.

How important is performance when temps are hovering in the single digits and below? Vital! That’s why Toro has introduced its new Sub Zero Material in the Power Max lineup’s chute, deflector, and ACS components. This special cold-weather material is proven to perform in temperatures as low as -104° F, is rust free, and won’t bind over time. Factor in a lifetime guarantee on all Sub Zero Material parts for added peace of mind.

Functionality is a major point of emphasis on all Toro Power Max two-stage snowblowers. The Quick Stick^® Chute Control offers joystick-type operation to move your chute direction and angle without stopping. Convenient one-hand operation allows users to keep one hand free, making it possible to adjust the chute without stopping.  Power Max two-stage snowblowers also are specially balanced, creating the right amount of weight on the front to dig into deep snows with just the right weight at the controls, making the machines easy to maneuver.  Aggressive, deep-lug tires offer maximum traction, reducing the amount of pushing force the operator needs to apply.

This winter, don’t settle for being stuck in the snow. Power through the piles of snow with one of three compact, yet powerful and easy-to-use Power Max two-stage snowblowers: the Power Max 724 OE at $899.99, the Power Max 726 OE at $999.99, and the Power Max 826 OE $1099.99 (all prices are MSRP). All Toro two-stage snowblowers come with a three-year limited warranty (see retailer for warranty details). See the Power Max in action.

Find the complete lineup of Toro snowblowers at your local authorized Toro dealer or shop online at www.torodealer.com. Select models can be purchased at The Home Depot^® stores or online at www. homedepot.com. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205 or visit www.toro.com. Need help deciding which snowblower is right for you? Check out Toro’s online snowblower selector.

About The Toro Company 

The Toro Company is a leading worldwide provider of turf and landscape maintenance equipment, and irrigation solutions. With sales of nearly $1.9 billion in fiscal 2011, Toro’s global presence extends to more than 90 countries through its reputation of world-class service, innovation and turf expertise. Since 1914, the company has built a tradition of excellence around a number of strong brands to help customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, and agricultural fields. More information is available at www.toro.com.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

This season, trade in that shovel for the convenience that comes with the new Toro^® 1500 Power Curve^® electric snowblower.

Toro's 1500 Power Curve offers a surprising amount of snow-moving power and proven reliability that ensures a clean start, every time. With minimal maintenance demands and easy maneuverability -- without the fuss of gas and oil -- the 1500 Power Curve adds up to the ideal product for homeowners living in areas where snowfall amounts range from a dusting to about 12 inches during any given storm.

Toro's new 1500 Power Curve (MSRP: $219.99) includes these distinct features that make it ideal for homeowners who need a quick and convenient way to clear their path:

• Easy-to-Use Controls - Toro's sleek handle design offers simple, intuitive controls for operation with either hand.
• Zip Deflector - Toro's patented Zip Deflector technology locks in the direction you want to throw the snow and quickly adjusts with a simple pull on the handle.
• Chute Lever – Easy-to-reach controls allow operators to adjust the snow stream, without having to crank to change the chute direction.
• Power Curve Technology - Toro engineers created a streamlined snow removal system incorporating a curved rotor and inverted funnel housing that provides a more efficient snow removal process
• Large Wheels - The unit’s wheel height provides better maneuverability in deep snow.
• Cord Lock - Never worry about your power cord dislodging; Toro's cord-locking feature ensures the cord won't come unplugged in the middle of your task.
• Qwik-Key™ Starting - The easy-to-push start button doubles as a removable key

Proven Power Curve technology means you can move more snow, more efficiently, without the hassle of filling up a gas tank prior to every snowstorm. The Power Curve 1500 guarantees an easy start, every time, meaning you won't be left out in the cold when it's time to clear a path to winter freedom.

Look for Toro snowblowers at your local authorized Toro dealer and shop online at www.torodealer.com. Select models can be purchased at The Home Depot^® stores and online at www.homedepot.com. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205 or visit www.toro.com. Need help deciding which snowblower is right for you? Check out Toro’s online snowblower selector.

About The Toro Company 

The Toro Company is a leading worldwide provider of turf and landscape maintenance equipment, and irrigation solutions. With sales of nearly $1.9 billion in fiscal 2011, Toro’s global presence extends to more than 90 countries through its reputation of world-class service, innovation and turf expertise. Since 1914, the company has built a tradition of excellence around a number of strong brands to help customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, and agricultural fields. More information is available at www.toro.com.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Purchasing a new Toro product is now just a few clicks away, thanks to the launch of www.torodealer.com. While browsing this new e-commerce site representing Toro dealers, you’ll be given the option to purchase everything from trimmers and blowers to walk power mowers and snowblowers – as well as parts and accessories. Or, choose from Toro’s selection of TimeCutter^® zero turn mowers, available to buy online without ever leaving your home!

By choosing an independent Toro dealer, you get more than great equipment, you get a local resource for advice, parts and service. Toro dealers are experts you can trust. They know Toro products inside and out, and receive ongoing training to keep them on the cutting edge of lawn care.

When you visit www.torodealer.com, simply select a local dealer from your personalized list, and you’ll be shopping in the best of both worlds: online convenience, but with a local retailer connection. Keeping your money local is more than a trend. It gives you the opportunity to support your hometown economy, while receiving personal service and an unbeatable product selection.

When purchasing online, most Toro products are shipped directly to your door. Larger items, such as TimeCutter zero turn mowers, are delivered by the local dealer of your choice.

For a dependable outdoor power equipment resource in your own backyard, visit Toro’s new online store at www.ToroDealer.com.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

New Toro^® TimeCutter^® MX mowers pack more features into an already great machine. These brawny TimeCutter zero-turn mowers are built to take on the toughest cutting conditions. Pair a new fabricated deck and heavy-duty hydrostatic transmissions with the TimeCutter’s time-saving Smart Speed^™ control, and you have a durable machine that will get the job done fast.

Designed for efficiency and durability, the MX 4260 and MX 5060 models feature a 726 cc Kawasaki^® V-Twin engine. Large deck sizes make these machines extremely productive. Choose from either a 42- or 50-inch steel fabricated deck. Large hydrostatic transmissions give you the power to move the TimeCutter MX through the yard, getting the job done quickly. Both machines come with a foot-assist height of cut that makes raising and lowering the fabricated deck even easier. An hour meter helps you keep track of use and serves as an easy maintenance reminder. Just as comfortable as they are durable, the TimeCutter MX mowers come standard with an 18-inch extra tall seat and an anti-vibe floor mat.

Both models feature Toro’s innovative Smart Speed technology. Imagine a system that allows you to select different ground speed ranges with the flip of a lever. In the past, if you wanted precise control while mowing around landscaping and tight corners you had to reduce your throttle speed. That also meant reducing the blade speed, which could lead to an uneven cut. Smart Speed makes that issue a problem of the past. The Smart Speed adjustment lever allows you to reduce the ground speed range of the control arms from 0-7 mph to 0-3.5 mph, without reducing engine speed or blade speed, thus preserving quality of cut. No other zero-turn mower offers anything like it. Click here to see Smart Speed in action.

Choosing the Smart Speed high setting gives you maximum speed for mowing the flat, open spaces in your yard. The low setting allows for enhanced maneuverability when cutting around trees, landscaping, or other tight spaces for a perfectly manicured look. The slower speed option provides more graduated speed changes with your control arms. Both experienced operators and novices alike will feel in command at all times.

The TimeCutter MX starts at $3,799 (MSRP) and is covered by a three-year limited warranty (see retailer for warranty details).

Look for the new TimeCutter MX models at your local authorized Toro dealer. Select models can be purchased at The Home Depot^® stores. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205 or visit www.toro.com.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

For decades, busy homeowners have relied on Toro^® blower vacs to get their cleanup jobs done quickly and efficiently. This year’s full line incorporates increased air power and improved handling, while ensuring these popular products remain lightweight, easy to use and quiet.

The Rake & Vac^™, Super Blower Vac, and Ultra Blower Vac feature front and rear handles that increase control and mobility, while reducing operator fatigue in both blower and vacuum modes. The Rake & Vac is a light 6.5 pounds, while the Super and Ultra models weigh in at 7.4 and 7.5 pounds, respectively. This generation of blower vacs also is easier to convert between blower and vacuum modes through the use of a quickrelease latch that allows for a simple, “no tools” conversion.

With a maximum air speed of 235 mph, the Toro Ultra Blower Vac (model 51609) is best in its class. This powerful blower vac features a variable speed control, from a low air speed of 88 mph to a top air speed of 235 mph. The controller allows the operator to “dial in” the precise air speed required for any task.

The Ultra Blower Vac also includes Toro’s exclusive, state-of-the-art, serrated, magnesium impeller that creates a 16-to-1 leaf reduction ratio when used in the vacuum mode. While noise can be a homeowner concern, the Ultra Blower Vac only produces 67 decibels (dBA) at peak performance and 61 dBA at the lowest setting in blower mode. To put that in perspective, your typical conversation falls between 60 and 70 dBA, and the average gas-powered blower operates at 100 dBA or louder.

The Toro Super Blower Vac (model 51602) features a top air speed of 230 mph at the high-speed setting and 159 mph at the lowspeed setting. When used in the vacuum mode, the Super Blower Vac has a 10-to-1 leaf shredding reduction ratio with its durable, plastic impeller. The Super Blower Vac also limits noise to 67 dBA at peak performance and 63 dBA at the low-speed setting in blower mode.

Both the Super and Ultra Blower Vacs come with multiple tubes, allowing you to match the air volume to the task. The main tube makes quick work of leaves near the house or caught in shrubs. The power insert helps move debris into piles. The concentrator tube is great for clearing out cracks, edging and for moving stubborn leaves.

The Toro Rake & Vac™ (model 51574) has an air speed of 210 mph at the high-speed setting and 135 mph at the low setting. Like the Super Blower Vac, it has a durable plastic impeller capable of an 8-to-1 leaf reduction ratio when used in the vacuum mode. The Rake & Vac operates at 67 dBA on the highspeed setting and 63 dBA at the low-speed setting in blower mode.

The Toro Power Sweep™ (model 51585) features a top air speed of 160 mph at the high-speed setting and 130 mph at the low-speed setting. This extra power boost is thanks to a two-speed air control that allows the user to adjust air speed to match the task at hand. While the Power Sweep blower is not designed to operate in vacuum mode, at only 4.6 pounds, it’s the perfect tool for clearing leaves and debris from sidewalks, decks and driveways.

All four models are backed by a 2-year full warranty. See your owner’s manual for full warranty details. Look for these blower vacs at Toro dealers, home centers and The Home Depot stores. For more information regarding the complete line of Toro electric blower vacs and other Toro products, contact Toro at 1-800-544-5364 or visit www.toro.com.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Precise trimming, superior user comfort, outstanding durability and efficiency, plus the freedom of cordless technology -- you’ll find all these attributes in Toro’s two new lithium ion cordless hedge trimmers.

New Cordless Hedge Trimmers  

The Toro^® model 51494 cordless hedge trimmer is packed with power and convenience. The 20V* Max lithium ion battery has up to twice the power per weight of a less-efficient nickel cadmium battery. The on-board LED charge meter on the rapid charger displays battery status, and the battery is equipped with LED status indicator lights, so you’ll always know the amount of power on hand.

This new hedge trimmer features a work grip handle that rotates 90 degrees for unmatched comfort during vertical cutting. The trimmer’s long, 22-inch cutting bar gives you extended reach and superior durability, while the dual-action cutting system reduces vibration and fatigue. Designed to take on branches up to 9/16 inches thick, this cordless model weighs in at just over 7 pounds and has a suggested retail price of $139.99.

For bigger trimming jobs, turn to Toro cordless 24V** Max model 51496. Loaded with all the great features of the smaller cordless trimmer, this machine increases reach and power with a 24-inch hardened polished steel cutting bar and a 24V Max lithium-ion battery. This trimmer weighs in at 6 pounds 10 ounces and can take on branches up to 5/8-inch in diameter. It has a suggested retail price of $159.99.

New Corded Hedge Trimmer  

The lightweight, ergonomic design of the Toro corded hedge trimmer makes quick work of even the toughest branches up to 9/16-inch thick. Model 51490 shares the cordless hedge trimmer’s long, 22-inch cutting bar and dual-action cutting system to extend reach and reduce fatigue. The standard cord lock prevents accidental unplugging. Toro’s new, corded hedge trimmer has a suggested retail price of $59.99.

Look for all three Toro hedge trimmers at hardware stores and select The Home Depot^® stores this spring. For more information contact Toro toll free at 1-888-384-9939 or visit us on the web at toro.com. 

*Battery manufacturer rating = 20V maximum & 18V nominal. Actual voltage varies with load.

**Battery manufacturer rating = 24V maximum & 22.2V nominal. Actual voltage varies with load.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Forget about just cutting the lawn. Master your lawn-mowing tasks -- and your time -- with new Toro^® TimeMaster^™ 30-inch wide area walk-behind mowers.

Designed with the look and feel of a typical walk-behind mower, the TimeMaster is packed with features that make it simple to use and store. It makes lawn mowing easier on your busy schedule too. With this first-of-its-kind mower, you can cut your lawn up to 40% faster than if you’re using a typical 21-inch walk behind mower*, leaving you more time for the important things in life. The TimeMaster’s extra-wide, yet lightweight, 30-inch cutting deck features a twin-blade cutting system and two-point height-of-cut adjustment to give you professional-looking results. The 12-gauge steel deck, cast aluminum frame and Briggs & Stratton^® 190cc OHV engine provide durability you can count on.

When it’s time to mow, the TimeMaster’s innovative Personal Pace^® automatic drive system does the work for you. Simply place your hands on the handle, press down, and Personal Pace adapts to your mowing speed. A traction-assist handle helps tame uneven terrain, and a larger capacity bag allows you to capture more clippings without sacrificing maneuverability. With the TimeMaster’s Spin-Stop™ System, you’re able to stop the cutting blades without shutting off the engine. This feature makes it quicker and easier to remove obstacles from your mowing path without having to restart the engine. A handle height adjustment option keeps the mowing experience comfortable for any user. When you’re done mowing, simply press down on the quick-stow lever for easy storage.

“If you have a big lawn and a busy schedule, this mower is for you,” explains Matthew Medden, senior marketing manager for Toro. “Originally, we designed the TimeMaster for homeowners who were looking to buy a small riding mower, but didn’t have the room to store it. What we found is that bigger really is better when it comes to any lawn-mowing task. If you can get the job done faster, that’s pretty appealing for any homeowner.”

The TimeMaster model 20199 starts at $1049 USD (MSRP) and is covered by a three-year full warranty and Toro’s three-year Guaranteed-To-Start (GTS) promise. The TimeMaster 20200 model, with Key-Lectric® electric start, has an MSRP of $1,149 USD (MSRP) and features a three-year full warranty and a three-year GTS promise. See your local retailer for complete warranty information.

Look for the new TimeMaster models this spring at your local authorized Toro dealer. Select models will be available at select The Home Depot^® stores. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205 or visit www.toro.com/timemaster30.

*Time savings achieved via wider cutting path and enhanced travel speed capabilities of TimeMaster™ mower compared to a 21” Toro^® mower.  Savings will vary due to mowing conditions. 

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Stop relying on April showers to bring May flowers. The Toro^® XTRA SMART^™ Precision^™ Soil Moisture Sensor can help keep your grass healthy all summer long, while saving you up to 35% in annual irrigation water use.

Toro’s innovative wireless soil sensing technology communicates moisture levels and transmits that data to the sprinkler timer. If a yard is low on water, the sensor tells the system to apply water. Conversely, if water levels are too high, the sensor prevents the sprinkler system from running.

This new technology makes monitoring your soil moisture levels effortless. By automatically calculating your field capacity - or the amount of moisture your soil can hold - homeowners can deliver water to their lawns only when the soil moisture level dips below a desired level.

“Many homeowners overwater their yards and don’t even know it. The XTRA SMART Soil Sensor will keep that from happening,” said Laura Lopez, senior channel manager for Toro Irrigation. “This soil sensing technology really is like the ‘brains for your backyard’.”

The XTRA SMART Soil Sensor features a two-part system - a battery-powered wireless moisture sensor that installs right in your turf, and a receiver that connects to your sprinkler timer, up to 500-feet away, line of sight. When installed properly, the XTRA SMART Soil Sensor can save homeowners up to 35% on their annual irrigation water use. (35% irrigation water savings based on Southwest Florida study comparing an irrigation timer plus soil moisture sensor to a timer alone. Your savings will depend largely on watering schedule and weather variability, especially rainfall: less rain, lower savings; and more rain, higher savings.) 

Toro has adapted this sensor from the same soil sensing technology found at world-class sports venues such as the Rose Bowl Stadium, professional sports fields and championship golf courses. “We’ve taken the same technology found at some of the world’s most inspiring venues and created a sensor intended to give homeowners a yard they can really be proud of,” Lopez added.

The new Toro XTRA SMART Soil Sensor is the only long-range wireless soil moisture sensor available on the retail market today. The XTRA SMART Soil Sensor has a suggested retail price of $149.99 USD and can be found at The Home Depot^™, Ace^® Hardware, Orchard Supply^™, or online at www.toro.com/soilsensor. For additional savings, check with your local water agency for any qualifying rebates.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

Putting the finishing touches on your yard is easier and more eco-friendly with Toro’s new cordless 12-inch trimmers. Thanks to new lightweight lithium-ion battery technology, there is plenty of power to take on thick grass and weeds, without the hassles of gas and oil. Available in 20-volt* or 24-volt** Max options, these batteries provide up to twice the power per weight as compared to a traditional nickel-cadmium battery. They also allow for longer run time with low self-discharge, so the trimmer is always ready when you are. Both trimmers come with a rapid charger and on-board charge meter to display the battery status.

These cordless trimmers also feature Toro’s innovative, one-step walk-behind edging option. Just push a button and rotate the head to start edging. A wheel guides the trimmer along the ground for easier edging. Both models feature an auto-feed trim line system that automatically adjusts the line to the perfect cutting length, plus a telescoping 14-inch shaft and adjustable assist handle. The assist handle helps reduce fatigue and promotes precision trimming and edging. It can be easily adjusted for added comfort and balance

Weighing 6 pounds and 9 ounces, model 51484 (20V Max*) features a 12-inch cutting head. It has a suggested retail price of $149.99. Model 51486 (24V Max**) adds the power-saver adjustable cut feature that changes the cutting line length from 12 inches to 10 inches for better power efficiency. In addition, this model features an extended battery pack for longer run time.  Weighing in at 7 pounds and 4 ounces, this new string trimmer has a suggested retail price of $169.99.

Look for these new models and the complete Toro string trimmer line-up at hardware stores and select The Home Depot^® stores this spring. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-888-384-9939 or visit us on the web at toro.com.

*Battery manufacturer rating = 20V maximum & 18V nominal. Actual voltage varies with load.

**Battery manufacturer rating = 24V maximum & 22.2V nominal. Actual voltage varies with load.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

This season, trade in that shovel for the convenience of an electric snowblower. With the #1 brand of electric snowblowers in the U.S., Toro offers two environmentally friendly options with power that will surprise you. The Toro Power Shovel and the 1800 Power Curve are easy to use and virtually maintenance free. Just plug them in, and you’re ready to take on whatever Mother Nature dishes out.

 
Toro 1800 Power Curve 

The new 1800 Power Curve is perfect for removing snow from small driveways, patios and sidewalks. This completely redesigned, single-stage snowblower pairs the features you need with the advantages of electric power. Thanks to Toro’s patented Power Curve technology, the 1800 Power Curve can throw up to 700 pounds of snow per minute, tossing it up to 30 feet out of the way. With the Power Curve system, a curved rotor with wide paddles clears snow down to the pavement.

Weighing only 25 pounds, this snowblower is simple to maneuver and compact enough for easy storage. Best of all, the 1800 Power Curve is packed with all the handy “extras” you need to get your task completed quickly. Toro's Zip Deflector allows you to change -- and then lock -- the angle of the thrown snow to match your needs, while the quick-turn chute lever makes adjusting the direction of snow fast and easy. An ergonomic handle and larger wheels keep you in control and comfortable. When you’re ready to take on the latest snowstorm, just plug in the 1800 Power Curve and go. Since it’s electric, there is no need for gas or oil.

This nimble, virtually maintenance-free machine retails for $319.99 (MSRP) and is covered by a two-year full warranty (see retailer for warranty details).

Toro Power Shovel  

Save time – and your back – with the Power Shovel. This powerful machine does the work for you, tackling snow up to six inches deep on any hard surface. It’s the perfect tool for cleaning snow from patios, walkways and decks. The Power Shovel is also great for those lighter snowfalls when your snow removal service doesn’t cover the job, or for clearing areas where a larger snowblower won’t reach.

Weighing only 13 pounds, the Power Shovel is lightweight, maneuverable and easy to use. When not in use, it’s simple to store – even indoors.  It’s a great gift for any homeowner, from single-family dwellers to townhome owners.

This eco-friendly, electric shovel retails for $119.99 (MSRP) and is covered by a two-year full warranty (see retailer for warranty details).

Look for the Power Shovel and the new 1800 Power Curve on Amazon.com and at The Home Depot stores. For more information, contact Toro toll free at 1-866-336-5205 or visit www.toro.com. Need help deciding which snowblower is right for you? Click to check out Toro’s online snowblower selector.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. 

BLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA — With Toro Blue Stripe Drip Irrigation systems, homeowners now have an easier way to make watering more efficient – all while saving time and money. Toro Blue Stripe Drip Irrigation systems are now available in kits specifically designed for containers, flower beds, vegetable and herb gardens, tomatoes and roses.

Drip irrigation is the process of delivering water in a slow, steady and precise manner to the soil. Emitters, or devices that deliver the water, are placed near the plant base so water can be delivered directly to the roots of plants. Experts say that drip irrigation is more than 90% efficient because of this delivery method. There is less evaporation because the water is delivered exactly where it’s needed. Micro-sprayers work in a similar way, using miniature sprayers to deliver water to individual plants or small garden areas. Both emitters and micro-sprayers keep the soil evenly moist, reducing stress on plants and promoting a healthy, beautiful landscape.

All Toro Hose End Drip Kits easily install directly onto an outdoor faucet or hose end. Each kit features drip components and tubing perfectly suited for the specific plant type or application, as well as easy to follow 3-step installation instructions with illustrations. Each kit’s unique features include:

• Toro Hose End Drip Kit for Containers - waters six average-sized containers, and adjustable emitters enable flexibility to suit various sized containers or increased water flow as plants grow.
• Toro Hose End Drip Kit for Flower Beds - waters flower beds of up to 30-square-feet, and adjustable emitters gently water to keep small plants and flower petals clean and vibrant.
• Toro Hose End Drip Kit for Vegetable and Herb Gardens - waters up to 24-square-feet of garden space, and tubing with pre-installed emitters make installation quick and easy.
• Toro Hose End Drip Kit for Tomatoes - waters up to three average-sized plants, and tubing with pre-installed emitters loops around the plant base and eliminates potential damage due to overspray.
• Toro Hose End Drip Kit for Roses - designed to water new or mature rose bushes and includes adjustable micro bubbler emitters for slow, deep watering and increased flow as roses grow.

Look for Toro Hose End Drip Kits online at ShopToro.com.

For more information on Toro Blue Stripe Irrigation or other Toro products, consumers can contact Toro at 1-800-348-2424 or visit www.toro.com. You can also visit www.torodesign.com for an interactive tutorial on designing and installing a home irrigation system.

This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase.