Is the Honda HS720 Discontinued? The Answer & Your Best Options
You’ve heard the rumors, searched online, and maybe even visited a local dealer only to be met with confusion. The Honda HS720, a legendary single-stage snow blower known for its reliability and powerful performance, seems to have vanished from showroom floors. This has left many loyal Honda users and prospective buyers asking the same question: is the Honda HS720 discontinued?
The short answer is yes, the Honda HS720 has been officially discontinued in the U.S. market. This news can be frustrating, especially for those who relied on its reputation for clearing snow efficiently. The disappearance of such a popular model creates a clear problem: what are your options now?
Whether you’re a current HS720 owner worried about future parts and service, or you were hoping to buy one, this comprehensive guide will provide the solution. We will explore why Honda made this decision, what it means for you, and detail the best paths forward, from hunting down a used model to embracing its powerful modern successors.
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The End of an Era: Why Was the HS720 Discontinued?
Understanding why a company would discontinue a beloved product like the HS720 can be puzzling. The decision wasn’t made because the machine was faulty; on the contrary, its popularity was a testament to its quality. Several key factors drove this change in Honda’s power equipment lineup.
The primary reason for the HS720’s departure was the introduction of a more advanced and powerful series of two-stage snow blowers, specifically the HSS series. Models like the HSS724A were engineered to handle heavier and deeper snow conditions, a market segment Honda aimed to dominate. This strategic shift involved streamlining their product offerings to focus on these more robust, feature-rich machines.
Furthermore, evolving environmental regulations and a continuous drive for innovation also played a role. Honda is constantly refining its engine technology to be more fuel-efficient and produce lower emissions. Phasing out older models allows the company to ensure its entire active lineup meets the latest standards and incorporates the newest technological advancements, a philosophy that ultimately benefits the consumer.
A Legacy of Power: What Made the HS720 So Great?
The Honda HS720 wasn’t just another snow blower; for many homeowners and even commercial users, it was the gold standard for single-stage machines. Its legendary status was built on a foundation of exceptional engineering and user-friendly design. It consistently delivered performance that punched well above its weight class.
At its core was the powerful and reliable Honda GC190 engine. This OHC four-stroke engine was praised for its easy starting, even in frigid temperatures, its quiet operation, and its impressive fuel economy. It provided the HS720 with the ability to clear up to 55 tons of snow per hour, throwing it as far as 33 feet away.
Its design was both compact and highly effective. With a 20-inch clearing width, it was maneuverable enough for tight spaces and sidewalks, yet powerful enough to tackle driveways with ease. The auger-assist drive helped propel the unit forward, reducing user fatigue and making a tough job feel significantly easier. It was this perfect balance of power, reliability, and thoughtful design that cemented the HS720’s place as a fan favorite.
Your Path Forward: A Guide to Your Options Now
With the HS720 no longer available new, you have three primary paths to consider. You can hunt for a well-maintained used model, focus on keeping your current machine running like new, or upgrade to one of its modern successors. Each option has its own set of considerations, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and budget.
Option 1: The Hunt for a Used Honda HS720
Finding a used HS720 is a great option for those who have their heart set on this specific model. Thanks to their robust construction, many of these machines are still in excellent working condition. However, purchasing used equipment requires careful inspection to avoid inheriting someone else’s problems.
What to Look For in a Used HS720:
- Engine Health: Start the machine from cold. It should start within a few pulls. Listen for any unusual noises, and check for smoke from the exhaust.
- Auger and Paddles: Inspect the rubber paddles for excessive wear or cracking. While they are replaceable, heavily worn paddles can indicate a machine that has seen very heavy use.
- Scraper Bar: The scraper bar is the piece at the bottom of the auger housing that contacts the ground. Check it for significant wear, as a worn bar will not clear snow effectively.
- Chute Control: Test the chute rotation and deflector angle. The controls should move smoothly and hold their position firmly.
- General Condition: Look for signs of heavy rust, dents, or damage that suggest neglect. A well-cared-for machine will show its history in its overall condition.
Searching local online marketplaces, estate sales, and authorized Honda service centers are your best bets. A dealer may occasionally take a well-maintained HS720 on trade-in, and these are often serviced and ready to go.
Option 2: Keeping Your Current HS720 in Prime Condition
For current owners, the discontinuation does not mean your machine is obsolete. Honda is known for providing parts and support for years after a product is discontinued. Most essential components, from spark plugs and carburetor gaskets to auger paddles and scraper bars, are still widely available through official dealers and online parts stores.
Regular maintenance is the key to longevity. This includes changing the oil annually, inspecting the spark plug, and ensuring the fuel is stabilized for off-season storage. Addressing small issues promptly can prevent major repairs down the road. If you encounter a problem, like a clog that won’t clear, it’s often a simple fix related to a worn belt or paddles. For instance, diagnosing a stubborn mechanical issue can be as straightforward as learning how to stop a SharkBite from spinning; a methodical approach often reveals a simple solution.
Option 3: Upgrading to the Modern Successor, the HSS Series
While the HS720 was a single-stage machine, its spiritual successors are found in Honda’s formidable HSS two-stage lineup. Models like the HSS724A offer a significant leap in performance, especially for those who face heavy, wet snow or the dense pile left by city plows at the end of the driveway.
A two-stage snow blower uses a metal auger to break up snow and feed it into a high-speed impeller, which then ejects it from the chute. This system allows them to handle deeper, more compacted snow and throw it much farther than single-stage models. Making this upgrade is an investment in capability and efficiency, much like understanding the cost to parge a foundation is an investment in your home’s long-term health.
To help you understand the leap in performance, here is a comparison between the classic HS720 and a popular modern equivalent, the HSS724A.
| Feature | Honda HS720 (Discontinued) | Honda HSS724AWD (Modern Successor) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Single-Stage | Two-Stage |
| Engine | Honda GC190 | Honda GX200 |
| Clearing Width | 20 inches | 24 inches |
| Drive System | Auger-Assist | Self-Propelled, Hydrostatic Drive |
| Max Throw Distance | 33 feet | 49 feet |
| Starting System | Recoil (Electric Start optional) | Recoil (Electric Start optional) |
| Best For | Light to moderate snow on paved surfaces. | Moderate to heavy snow, all surface types. |
Beyond Honda: Exploring Worthy Alternatives
While Honda’s reputation is formidable, they are not the only name in the game. If you’re open to exploring other brands, companies like Toro and Ariens offer highly competitive single-stage and two-stage snow blowers. Models like the Toro SnowMaster and Ariens Deluxe series are frequently praised for their performance and durability.
When considering an alternative, it’s crucial to look at the features that matter most to you. Do you need the bare-pavement clearing of a single-stage or the raw power of a two-stage? Is electric start a must-have? Reading reviews and comparing specifications will help you find a machine that can serve you as reliably as the HS720 did for so many years.
Proactive Maintenance: Ensuring Your Snow Blower’s Longevity
Whether you find a used HS720 or invest in a new HSS model, proper maintenance is the most critical factor in ensuring a long, trouble-free service life. A proactive approach will save you time, money, and the frustration of a machine that won’t start on the morning of a big storm.
Essential Pre-Season Checks
Before the first snowflake falls, perform a thorough inspection. Check the oil level and change it if you didn’t do so at the end of last season. Inspect the spark plug for fouling and replace it if necessary. Examine the auger paddles and scraper bar for wear and replace them if they are worn down to the indicators.
Finally, check your fuel situation. If you have old fuel in the tank, drain it and start with a fresh supply. Always use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from degrading and gumming up the carburetor, which is the most common cause of starting issues.
Proper Off-Season Storage
How you store your snow blower is just as important as how you maintain it during the winter. At the end of the season, either run the machine completely out of fuel or add a stabilizer and let the engine run for a few minutes to circulate it through the system. Storing equipment properly is a universal principle of good ownership, whether you’re debating if it is ok to put plywood over attic insulation or winterizing a small engine.
Clean the entire machine to remove salt and debris, which can cause corrosion. Store it in a dry, protected location like a garage or shed. A simple cover can also help keep it free from dust and moisture, ensuring it’s ready to roar to life when you need it most.
Final Verdict: The HS720 Is Gone, but Great Options Remain
So, while it is true that the Honda HS720 is discontinued, its legacy of reliability and performance lives on. For dedicated fans, a well-inspected used model can provide many more years of service, and parts remain readily available for those who already own one.
However, for most users, the best path forward is to embrace the evolution of Honda’s technology. The HSS series two-stage snow blowers are a worthy upgrade, offering more power and capability to handle even the most challenging winter weather. By understanding your options and committing to proper maintenance, you can ensure that you’re always prepared to clear the way, no matter how much snow falls.
