Furnace Vent Safety in Winter

Well, now that most of southern Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin have been pummelled with 12-17 inches of snow, homeowners should be mindful of their furnace vents.  During heavy snow, the exhaust vents can become blocked and clogged with snow, leading to carbon monoxide backing up into the house.  While your exhaust vents do put out very warm air (somewhere around 120 degrees for high efficiency furnaces) and tends to melt any snow, it is still recommended that you remove snow from that area.  With the high winds and drifting snow, it would take very little for a large drift to form and clog the exhaust.  Take the time to test your carbon monoxide detector or purchase one if you do not own one.  These devices can save lives in the event of furnace malfunction.  This home inspector is ready for a White Christmas now!