If you live in New Hampshire, your outdoor power equipment has to work hard in every season. Spring means lawn mowing and yard prep. Fall brings heavy leaf cleanup. Winter demands a dependable snow blower or plow. When your equipment breaks down, the big question becomes whether you should buy OEM vs aftermarket parts.
At Seacoast Power Equipment, we help homeowners, farmers, and professionals keep their tools running through each season. Let’s break down the differences between OEM and aftermarket parts, look at their pros and cons, and show how the right choice can extend equipment life, save money, and prevent downtime.
What Are OEM Parts?
OEM, or Original Equipment Manufacturer parts, are made by the same company that built your equipment. These parts are designed for your specific model and tested to meet factory standards.
For example:
- STIHL chainsaw chains and guide bars.
- Ariens snow blower belts.
- Toro mower blades sized exactly for your deck.
Benefits of OEM Parts
- Exact Fit – Built specifically for your model.
- Quality Assurance – Tested to manufacturer standards.
- Longer Lifespan – Designed to match original durability.
- Warranty Protection – Keeps most manufacturer warranties valid.
Limitations of OEM Parts
- Higher price than generic alternatives.
- Sometimes harder to find during peak repair seasons.
What Are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers. They’re designed to fit multiple equipment brands or models.
For example, a spark plug brand that claims to fit many mower engines or a generic mower blade listed as “compatible” with several makes.
Benefits of Aftermarket Parts
- Lower Cost – Budget-friendly compared to OEM.
- Wider Availability – Many generic suppliers produce them.
- Useful for Older Machines – When OEM support may be limited.
Limitations of Aftermarket Parts
- Quality varies widely between brands.
- Fit isn’t always precise.
- May void manufacturer warranty.
OEM vs Aftermarket Parts: Side-by-Side Comparison
Parts Quality Comparison
OEM parts consistently meet strict standards. With aftermarket parts, quality depends on the manufacturer. Some rival OEM in durability, while others wear out quickly.
For example, replacement mower blades from the OEM tend to hold an edge longer than many aftermarket versions, meaning cleaner cuts and less sharpening.
Parts Longevity
Longevity often determines true value. OEM typically lasts longer, especially on heavy-use equipment like tractors and commercial zero turns. Aftermarket can be fine for lighter residential use, but longevity varies.
Cost
Aftermarket saves money upfront. OEM saves in the long run by reducing breakdowns and repeated purchases.
Seasonal Availability in NH
New Hampshire’s seasonal demand makes availability critical. Seacoast Power Equipment keeps many snow blower parts NH in stock for winter and mower parts ready in spring. OEM can occasionally be backordered, while aftermarket may fill the gap quickly but with less predictable performance.
When OEM Is the Smarter Choice
OEM is best when:
- Equipment is under warranty.
- You’re replacing critical safety parts like belts, blades, or brakes.
- You use equipment heavily, such as commercial zero turn mowers during summer or snow blowers during storms.
- Reliability matters more than upfront savings.
When Aftermarket Makes Sense
Aftermarket can be the right choice when:
- You’re fixing an older piece of equipment.
- You need a quick solution for non-critical parts like spark plugs or filters.
- You want to save on routine maintenance supplies.
Seasonal Parts Demands in New Hampshire
Outdoor equipment owners in NH face sharp seasonal repair needs:
- Spring: mower blades, filters, belts.
- Summer: trimmer line, handheld tool parts.
- Fall: blower tubes, filters, and belts.
- Winter: snow blower shear pins, skid shoes, and auger belts.
If you’ve read our spring preparation guide for farm equipment maintenance, you already know that planning ahead saves downtime. The same applies here — OEM parts help ensure your machine is ready before peak demand hits.
Local Examples from Seacoast Power Equipment Customers
- A homeowner in Portsmouth needed mower blades in May. Choosing OEM meant fewer sharpenings and smoother cuts all summer, just as we explained in our guide on mowing patterns with zero turn mowers.
- A small farm in Lee kept older tractors running affordably with aftermarket belts and filters sourced through our parts department.
How Seacoast Power Equipment Helps You Decide
We carry both OEM and carefully selected aftermarket parts in our replacement parts department. Our technicians can recommend which choice makes sense based on your budget, machine, and seasonal needs.
And if your mower or snow blower needs more than just parts, our outdoor power equipment repair services and pickup and delivery option keep the process convenient.
For added seasonal guidance, check out our blog on early spring lawn care tips or our detailed fall equipment maintenance checklist. Both show how preventive care reduces the need for emergency repairs.
Tips for Choosing OEM vs Aftermarket Parts
- Use OEM while your warranty is active.
- Go OEM for high-use equipment, aftermarket for light-duty or older gear.
- Consider timing: OEM reduces in-season failures when downtime costs the most.
- Ask Seacoast Power Equipment before buying. We’ll guide you toward the right solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are OEM parts always better than aftermarket?
OEM guarantees fit and quality, but well-made aftermarket options are fine for minor or older equipment repairs.
Will using aftermarket parts void my warranty?
Often, yes. Manufacturers typically require OEM to maintain warranty coverage. Always confirm with your manual.
Which lasts longer, OEM or aftermarket?
OEM parts generally last longer. Aftermarket quality varies depending on the brand.
Can I get OEM snow blower parts in NH quickly?
Yes. Seacoast Power Equipment stocks common snow blower parts NH and can special-order others fast.
Should I use aftermarket mower blades?
For daily or commercial mowing, OEM blades are recommended. For occasional residential mowing, aftermarket can be acceptable.
Making the Right Choice for Your Equipment
Choosing between OEM vs aftermarket parts isn’t one-size-fits-all. OEM parts give you guaranteed fit, durability, and warranty protection. Aftermarket can work for non-critical fixes or older machines when cost is a concern.
At Seacoast Power Equipment, we stock both and help customers across New Hampshire choose what’s best for their property or farm. If you need parts or service, visit our parts department, schedule repair services, or contact us today.