If your Snow Joe Ultra does not power on after you press the safety switch button and squeeze the handle, make sure you are continuing to hold the safety button while squeezing the switch lever. Pressing and releasing the safety button before squeezing the lever will not complete the starting sequence.
Before trying again: Keep your hands and feet away from the auger. The auger starts rotating immediately when the machine powers on. Do not use the snow thrower if its electrical cord or extension cord is damaged.
Try the Starting Sequence Again
- Release both controls.
Let go of the safety button and the ON/OFF switch lever so you can restart the sequence from the beginning. - Press and keep holding the safety button.
The control may be labeled safety switch or safety lock, depending on your model. - Squeeze the switch lever while holding the button.
Keep the safety button fully depressed as you pull the ON/OFF switch lever or switch bar toward the handle. Using one hand for the button and the other for the lever may make this easier. - Release only the safety button after startup.
Once the motor starts, release the safety button. Continue squeezing the switch lever and grip the handle securely to maintain operation. - Release the switch lever to stop.
The motor and auger will stop when you release your grip. Wait for the auger to stop completely before leaving the operating position.
The controls must overlap: Press the safety button first, keep it held down, and then squeeze the switch lever. For SJ623E, SJ626E, and SJ627E, reversing the order will not start the machine.
If It Still Does Not Power On
1. Check the Connection
Confirm the extension cord is fully inserted into the snow thrower and the electrical outlet. Secure the cord with the onboard restraint hook so it cannot disconnect during use.
2. Check the Outlet
Confirm the GFCI-protected outlet has power. If the GFCI has tripped, reset it only when the cords, plugs, outlet, and surrounding area are dry and undamaged.
3. Check the Extension Cord
Use an outdoor cord with the correct wire gauge. An undersized cord can cause voltage drop, loss of power, and overheating.
4. Inspect the Cords
Stop if the product cord or extension cord is cut, cracked, frayed, loose, wet, or otherwise damaged. Have damaged electrical components repaired or replaced before use.
Extension Cord Requirements
All five covered models require an outdoor, all-weather extension cord rated by UL, CSA, or ETL. Do not use an extension cord longer than 100 ft (30 m).
| Extension Cord Length | Minimum Wire Gauge |
|---|---|
| Up to 50 ft (15 m) | 14 AWG |
| More than 50 ft up to 100 ft (15-30 m) | 12 AWG |
Check your product manual: The extension cord chart is usually on page 2 or 3. Always use the recommendation for your exact model because cord requirements can vary between electric products.
Safety Reminders
- Do not touch the snow thrower, plug, or extension cord with wet hands or while standing in water.
- Do not expose the operating snow thrower to water or rain.
- Keep the cord away from the auger, heat, oil, and sharp edges.
- Never bypass, tape down, or modify the safety button or switch lever.
- Disconnect the extension cord before clearing an obstruction, inspecting the unit, or performing maintenance.
- Do not force controls that have frozen. Disconnect the unit and allow frozen parts to free before restarting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I press the safety button and switch lever at the same time?
Not exactly. Press and hold the safety button first. While continuing to hold it, squeeze the switch lever. The two controls must be held together until the motor starts.
How do I turn the snow thrower off?
Release the ON/OFF switch lever or switch bar. The motor and auger will stop. Wait for the auger to stop completely before inspecting or moving away from the unit.
Why can a long extension cord cause loss of power?
An undersized extension cord can cause voltage drop, loss of power, and overheating. Confirm the cord length and wire gauge against the chart above and the chart in your exact model’s manual.
Should the outlet have GFCI protection?
Yes. Use a circuit or outlet protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter. Keep all plugs and connections dry.