Snow-Blocked Vents and Other Winter HVAC Problems in Vaughan
Some HVAC problems only show up when it’s properly cold. These are the ones we get called for most often in Vaughan between December and March, and most of them are preventable.
Snow over the furnace vents
High-efficiency furnaces and boilers draw air in and vent exhaust through two plastic pipes on the side of the house. After a big snowfall or when snow is shovelled against the wall, those pipes get buried. The furnace’s pressure switch senses the blockage and shuts it down. Clear a good space around them after every storm, and never stack snow over them.
Frozen condensate lines
A condensing furnace makes water. If the drain line runs through a cold space, or the vent pipe sags so water pools and freezes, the furnace shuts off. Gurgling noises from the vent pipe are an early sign. This is a fix for a technician, usually re-sloping or insulating the pipe.
Heat pumps covered in ice
A light frost that clears during defrost cycles is normal. A unit encased in ice, or ice building from a gutter dripping onto it, isn’t. Don’t chip at it; turn it off and call for service. Mount outdoor units off the ground and away from roof drip lines.
Frozen pipes in outside walls
Kitchen and bathroom pipes on exterior walls can freeze during deep cold, especially if a room’s heating register is closed. Keep registers open, leave cabinet doors open on the coldest nights, and keep the thermostat above about 16°C if you’re away.
Dry air
Static shocks, dry skin and gaps in hardwood floors are signs indoor humidity has dropped too low. A whole-home humidifier helps; see our post on choosing a whole-home humidifier.
The furnace that ran fine until the first cold week
A dirty flame sensor, weak igniter or plugged condensate trap often shows up only when the furnace starts running hard. A fall service catches most of these. If yours is showing a code, check our furnace not turning on guide.
For winter service or emergency repairs, see our heating services or call 647-657-2977. We’re available 24/7 across the GTA, based in Vaughan.
