Snow and Ice Impact Cincinnati HVAC Systems

We’ve been lucky so far this winter to have mild weather, but the season isn’t over yet. According to the groundhog, there’s six more weeks of winter in store. We could see heavy snow and ice still at some point, paired with freezing temperatures.

Even though your Cincinnati furnace is housed indoors and your cooling system isn’t in use, winter weather can still impact your system. Here’s how:

Blocked furnace exhaust

Snow and ice accumulation has the potential to block your furnace’s exhaust flue. This can be a dangerous problem, as carbon monoxide produced by the combustion process will have no way to safely escape your home, leaving it to build up inside. If you suspect a blocked exhaust pipe, visually inspect the area of the roof where the pipe exits. If you must get on the roof to clear a blockage, take safety precautions to prevent slips and falls due to ice and snow.

Ice damage to air conditioners

Even though your cooling system isn’t running, it can still be damaged by the elements. When large, heavy icicles form on the guttering above the exterior air conditioner, they have the potential to fall on your unit, damaging the exterior cabinet as well as interior components. Watch this area for ice accumulation over the winter, and remove any icicles that form while they are still small.

Melting snow and refreezing water

When a large amount of snow melts near your home, water can seep into your exterior air conditioner, or even into the indoor area where your furnace is housed. When these metal units come into contact with water, corrosion can occur, damaging sensitive components and electrical connections. As temperatures drop, water that has entered the system can refreeze, expanding and damaging your systems. Keep the area surrounding your exterior air conditioner free of large snowdrifts, and monitor the basement or other area of the home where your furnace is for flooding when snow melts.

If your heating or cooling system has been damaged by winter weather, call the experts at Nelson Comfort for reliable repairs. We’ll diagnose your HVAC systems, and inform you of what needs to be done to restore indoor comfort and efficiency.

About The Author

Dan Detmer

Dan Detmer is the owner of Nelson Comfort. Dan was born into the heating and cooling industry, coming from a family of well respected HVAC contractors in Dayton, Ohio. After working in the family business, Dan decided to work for a local HVAC wholesale business helping local contractors grow their business. When he felt his heart moving him back into the residential and light commercial business, Dan joined the Mortimer Heating & Cooling team in Cincinnati, where he had called home and become part of the community for several years. After a short period of time Dan purchased the company and created what is today, Nelson Comfort. Today he operates a company based on integrity, honesty, and stellar customer service. If you have any questions feel free to tweet (at sign) NelsonComfort and we will get right back with you!