With Ottawa expecting 30–40 cm of snow, homeowners need to be extra mindful of their furnace vents. Heavy snowfall can block your venting system, leading to potential heating failures and serious safety risks like carbon monoxide buildup.
At AirZone HVAC Services, we always remind our customers of the importance of winter furnace maintenance. A few minutes of clearing snow around your vents can prevent costly repairs and keep your home safe and warm. In this article, we’ll explain why keeping furnace vents clear is essential and how to properly maintain them during heavy snowfalls.
How Furnace Vents Work and Why Snow Blockages Are Dangerous
Modern high-efficiency furnaces use a direct vent system, meaning they have separate intake and exhaust pipes—often exiting through the side of your home rather than the chimney. These pipes pull in fresh air for combustion and vent out harmful gases, including carbon monoxide (CO).
When heavy snow accumulates around your vents, it can:
✅ Block Exhaust Gases – A blocked exhaust vent prevents dangerous gases, including carbon monoxide, from escaping your home. This can lead to CO buildup inside your living space—a serious health hazard.
✅ Starve Your Furnace of Airflow – If your intake vent is clogged, your furnace won’t receive the oxygen needed for proper combustion, causing it to shut down as a safety measure.
✅ Trigger Emergency Shutdowns – Many high-efficiency furnaces are designed to automatically shut down if they detect venting blockages. While this safety feature prevents CO leaks, it also means your furnace could stop working when you need it most.
✅ Reduce Heating Efficiency – Even a partial blockage can force your furnace to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing your energy bills.
How to Keep Your Furnace Vents Clear of Snow
During a heavy snowfall (or after a storm), take these quick steps to ensure your furnace runs safely:
1. Locate Your Furnace Vents
Before the storm hits, identify where your furnace vents exit your home. They are usually white PVC pipes found on an exterior wall near ground level. If you’re unsure, check your furnace manual or contact our team for guidance.
2. Check Your Vents Regularly
After any snowfall, take a moment to inspect your vents. Even a light dusting of snow can cause airflow issues. It’s best to clear them right away rather than waiting for ice buildup.
3. Use a Soft Brush or Shovel Carefully
Gently remove snow around your vent area using a broom or brush. Avoid packing snow near the vents, as melting and refreezing could cause ice blockages. If ice does form, do not use hot water, as it can create a larger blockage—use warm air from a hairdryer instead.
4. Keep the Area Around Your Vents Clear
If possible, create a small snow-free zone around your vents. This prevents future buildup and allows proper ventilation.
5. Watch for Warning Signs
If your furnace suddenly stops running or you notice uneven heating in your home, check your vents first before calling for service. Other warning signs of a blocked vent include:
🚨 Furnace shutting down unexpectedly
🚨 Strong gas-like smells or condensation near vents
🚨 Yellow or flickering furnace flames instead of blue
Preventative HVAC Maintenance for Ottawa Winters
The best way to ensure your heating system runs efficiently all winter is through regular furnace maintenance. At AirZone HVAC Services, we offer professional furnace tune-ups and maintenance to check for potential venting issues, ensure your system is running efficiently, and provide peace of mind throughout the heating season.
Book Your Furnace Maintenance or Emergency Service
If you experience any furnace issues after a snowfall, our expert technicians are here to help. Whether it’s a venting issue, furnace repair, or emergency service, we’re available to keep your home warm and safe.
📅 Schedule your service today and make sure your heating system is prepared for Ottawa’s harsh winter weather.
More HVAC Services from AirZone
✅ Furnace Installation & Repairs – Keep your home warm with professional furnace services.
✅ Ductless Heating Solutions – Efficient heating options without the need for ductwork.
✅ Heat Pump Installations – An energy-efficient alternative for heating and cooling.
✅ Indoor Air Quality Enhancements – Improve the air you breathe with purifiers and humidifiers.
