As winter continues to blanket Utica and the surrounding areas in snow, homeowners focus on shoveling driveways and clearing roofs. But there’s one crucial task often overlooked—clearing snow from your home’s vents. Ignoring this hidden hazard could lead to furnace shutdowns, house fires, and even life-threatening carbon monoxide poisoning.
Why Blocked Vents Are Dangerous
In many homes, heating system vents are located along the sides of the structure. Heavy snow buildup can easily block these vents, disrupting your furnace’s ability to function properly. These blocked vents can trigger safety mechanisms that shut down your furnace, so while this safety feature prevents immediate danger, it could also leave you without heat during frigid temperatures.
More alarmingly, blocked vents can lead to carbon monoxide buildup—a silent, odorless gas that can be deadly if it accumulates in your home.
Don’t Forget the Dryer Vent
While heating system vents are a top concern, dryer vents can pose their own risks during winter. Snow-covered or blocked dryer vents can cause lint buildup, which is a leading cause of household fires.
Steps to Keep Your Home Safe
- Inspect All Exterior Vents
- Check heating system vents, dryer vents, and vents for water heaters, stoves, and fireplaces. Make sure they’re free from snow or ice buildup.
- Use Gentle Tools
- Use a soft brush or broom to gently clear snow from vents. Avoid using sharp objects that could damage the vent covers.
- Schedule Annual Maintenance
- Have your furnace professionally cleaned and inspected yearly to ensure that all safety mechanisms are functioning correctly. This will also help to prevent unexpected breakdowns.
- Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Place detectors near sleeping areas and on each level of your home to alert you to dangerous carbon monoxide levels.
- Stay Vigilant After Heavy Snowfalls
- Make it a habit to inspect your vents after every significant snowfall, especially if your home has low-lying vents or areas prone to drifting snow.
Tips for Clearing Snow from Vents:
Know Where Your Vents Are Located:
Walk around your home to identify the locations of all external vents before heavy snowfall…