Cold weather can be dangerous, especially if you don’t prepare in advance by ensuring your furnace stays running smoothly through the winter months. However, snow and ice can damage your heating system even if you’ve taken precautions to prepare yourself for the cold weather ahead. Here are four ways snow and ice can damage a furnace in Chambersburg, PA.
Blocked Vent Pipe
Large amounts of wet, heavy snow or ice are common in Pennsylvania during winter months can damage your furnace by blocking the exhaust vent. When the exhaust vent for your furnace becomes clogged, it can cause a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide in your home.
A blocked vent pipe can also result in your furnace not getting enough airflow through the system. This will result in your heating system running inefficiently or not at all. Overheating is also another possibility with a blocked vent pipe.
Another serious issue that can result from a blocked furnace vent pipe is a fire. A snow and ice melt inside of the vent pipe, it will begin to trickle down towards the combustion chamber.
Given enough water, this can result in electrical problems as it comes in contact with components inside the system. It can also result in the rusting of the components that will require professional furnace repairs.
Ice Formation and Flooding
If your home is poorly insulated or not well ventilated, the snow on the roof will melt from the heat produced by the furnace. This is not only an issue for the efficiency of your furnace and even heating throughout your home, but it can also lead to the formation of ice dams.
As the snow and ice melt from your roof, it can refreeze as it flows off the roof and into the gutters. Over time, ice dams form that can damage your gutters and eaves.
This ice build-up can also lead to excessive puddling when it begins to melt. This water can cause flooding in your home and around where your furnace is located. It can also cause issues with your foundation as the water freezes and melts over and over throughout the winter.
Using the above pointers will help protect your furnace against snow or ice damage during winter. Contact Leckron’s Comfort Solutions for your heating and air conditioning needs in Chambersburg, PA.
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