Keeping Snow Away from Heating Intakes and Exhaust Pipes
When heavy snowfall happens, most of our focus turns to roads and driveways. In the world of HVAC, when it snows heavily, we focus on intake vents and exhaust pipes. If snow blocks any of these two items, it can cause significant damage and be very dangerous. It is important to keep snow or debris away from HVAC vents or exhaust pipes.
Most homes use natural gas as a combustable source. The byproduct of burning natural gas requires ventilation - pushing carbon monoxide out of your home. Gas water heaters use a similar technique. If heavy snow blocks your exhaust pipe, it may become plugged or inoperable, increase the wear and tear on your furnace and cause a dangerous level of carbon monoxide to become trapped in your home. Even if you own a high-efficient furnace you must still ensure exhaust pipes are vented properly.
Properly installed intake and exhaust pipes are required to be installed above the snow line, but in extreme cases of snow piling and cold snaps, snow and ice could cause blockages.
Whether it snows a bunch, gets extremely cold, or even wind causing banking, winter weather can easily turn into something far more dangerous. Keep your exhaust pipes free of snow and regularly clean the area around them - just as you would your walkways and driveway.
If you deal with regular snow buildup around the exhaust area, you may consider installing an A-frame around your vents to keep snow pushed away. Feel free to ask one of our experts what they would recommend to prevent intake and exhaust blockages - they will walk through best practices with you to ensure your indoor weather is the cleanest, safest quality possible.
To speak to one of our HVAC experts, you can reach us around the clock at (204) 953-5700.
