Phone: 204-771-0198

Furnace Issues in Extreme Cold

February 3, 2022 /

Most homeowners have upgraded their furnaces to high efficiency models.  These typically come with an exhaust exit pipe at the side of the house. During winter with an abundance of snow and very cold temperatures, this exhaust pipe can be buried in snow or severly restricted with a heavy ice build up due to the condensation around the pipe.  If this happens, most furnaces have a sensor that will detect the blockage and shut down, otherwise noxious fumes  will back up into the basement. Having your furnace shut down during the most extreme winter temperatures is an uncomfortable and stressful  experience. It’s important to check both your gas meter and exhaust pipe to clear both of snow and ice buildup.

Recently Manitoba Hydro put out a press release highlighting this very situation. Here it is:

With so much snow and drifting this winter it’s important to make sure your gas meter and sidewall vents are clear of snow.
We’re getting lots of gas odour calls because external vents are blocked. Snow-covered gas meters and vents can create an unsafe gas pressure in your home. Carefully brush snow and ice off your meter and keep external vents clear of snow.

RECENT POSTS

How Long Does a Hot Water Heater Last?

Two appliances that are the most common problem for homeowners who are away for an extended period of time are the furnace and the hot water tank.  They both seem to cause problems during the most inconvenient time.  Let's deal with the hot water tank first. It's good...

Testimonials are Satisfying

I never ask for testimonials, but when they are recieved unsolicited, it certainly is satisfying.  We  try to treat our client's homes like it was our own.  The trust people put into our hands is acknowledged and we want to ensure their time away from home is...

Travel – Nashville

Since most clients use Winnipeg Home Check services while they are away travelling, I thought I would provide some of my travel experiences. I recently spent some time in Nashville.  Here are my observations: Nashville on a Saturday night. This isn’t you...

we got you covered

Thinking about a summer vacation or going to the cottage? We got you covered. We can check your home while you're away, mow your lawn, water your garden and even take care of your hot tub / pool maintenance. You can leave your home with peace of mind that everything...

Sump Pump Troubles

Not everyone knows and understands the workings of the sump pump in the basement. It can save an expensive disaster, but a certain level of understanding and caution is necessary to ensure your sump pump is a preventive measure and not the cause of a problem. Kings...

Pin It on Pinterest