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DIY snow removal is entirely free, except for the cost of a shovel. However, it may not always be the best option for large driveways and areas with heavy snowfall; it’s strenuous work and can take a long time. Other wallet-friendly ways to remove snow include rock salt, hot water, a de-icing agent, or a leaf blower. 

Generally, the cost of ice dam removal is not covered by homeowners insurance because it is often considered preventable maintenance. However, the damage caused by ice dams is frequently covered. Depending on your policy, this can include interior water damage, roof collapses, and damage to shingles. Coverage for personal belongings affected by leaks may vary. It is important to check your policy details or contact your insurer to confirm what your plan covers. Keep in mind that any damage resulting from a DIY attempt to remove an ice dam will likely not be covered.

When starting the engine, you typically leave the choke on a snowblower in the "choke" or "closed" position. After starting, let the engine run for a few minutes to warm up. Then, gradually open the choke, moving it to the "open" or "run" position, allowing more air into the engine and transitioning to a normal fuel-air mixture. The exact duration varies based on the snowblower model and ambient temperature, but as a general rule, you should open the choke once the engine has stabilized and runs smoothly, typically within a few minutes.

The best snow removal tools include a snowblower or a plastic shovel since they're less likely to damage your driveway's surface. Metal shovels can crack asphalt and concrete. It's also a good idea to install driveway markers since they can make it much easier for you to identify where you should shovel without damaging the surrounding yard.