No Heat? Blame the Snow

With snow and cold temperatures on the way, it is important to be certain that our home’s heating system is working properly.  While an annual maintenance inspection can typically troubleshoot any existing or potential problems, there are still issues that can occur through the winter.  One common issue is snow blocking the intake and exhaust pipes of high efficiency furnaces.  When this happens, the furnace can stop working.  Snow + cold temperatures + no heat?  No, thank you!

How Can Snow Shut Off My Heat?

Unlike other furnaces that typically vent through the home’s chimney, high efficiency furnaces (90% AFUE and above) vent through smaller PVC pipes typically located on the side of the home, close to the ground.  Because of their location and size, it is much easier for them to become clogged by snow.  No heat is not just a comfort concern, it is a serious health and safety issue.

What Can You Do About It?

The first step is prevention.  While you can’t determine where and how snow will fall, you can determine where and how you shovel snow.  When clearing snow away, be mindful of these pipes, and do not shovel or blow snow near them.

If you do end up with snow in any of these pipes–even if your furnace still seems to be working fine–clear it out to the best of your ability before it becomes a problem.

Lastly, if you discover that your home has no heat on a snowy day, check out those PVC vent pipes first to see in they are clogged.  Clear them out, and try turning the furnace back on.  If your heat is still not working, you can check out this blog post or contact a professional for help.

Don’t forget that FLAME offers emergency service 24/7.  If you find that your home is without heat for whatever reason, do not hesitate to call for help.

Looking for more advice or information about our residential heating services?  Contact us at FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical!