Keeping exterior furnace and water-heater vents clear
Leaves, snow and ice can obstruct appliance intake or exhaust openings. Check them from the ground after storms.
Locate the exterior intake and exhaust openings for your furnace, water heater and other vented equipment. Keep them clear of leaves, drifting snow and ice, and check again after heavy weather—without climbing or dismantling anything.
If a CO alarm sounds, you smell gas, see smoke or believe there is an immediate danger, get everyone outside and call 911 from outside.
Know which openings belong to the equipment
Modern furnaces and water heaters may use plastic intake and exhaust pipes through a side wall. Other appliances use metal vents, chimneys or roof terminations. Dryer and ventilation outlets may be nearby but serve different systems.
If you cannot identify an opening safely from the ground, ask during the next service visit. Do not cover, screen or modify a termination unless the equipment manufacturer permits it.
After snow, wind and freeze-thaw weather
Look for drifting snow, packed leaves, frost and ice around the openings. Clear loose material from the surrounding area without striking or forcing the pipe. Do not climb an icy ladder or onto a roof to reach a termination.
Respond to equipment warnings
Some equipment will shut down when it cannot vent correctly. Repeated resets are not a repair. If the vent is visibly clear but the equipment will not operate, arrange service.
Gas or CO emergency
If a CO alarm sounds, you smell gas, or anyone may be experiencing CO symptoms, leave immediately and call 911 from outside. Do not remain inside to investigate a vent.