Winter Safety: Keep Your Vents and Gas Meters Clear!

Winter in Toronto brings heavy snowfall, and while most homeowners focus on clearing their driveways and sidewalks, it’s just as important to keep vents, gas meters, and backup generators free from snow and ice. Blocked vents can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup, while snow-covered gas meters may pose a hazard to your home’s heating system. Follow these essential tips to stay safe this winter.

Why Keeping Vents Clear is Important

Modern high-efficiency furnaces and water heaters vent through the side of your home instead of the roof. These vents pull in fresh air and discharge harmful exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide (CO). If they become blocked by snow, it could result in CO backing up into your home. Some furnaces have automatic shut-offs when vents are blocked, but not all of them do. To prevent dangerous situations:

✅ Maintain a 3-ft clearance around furnace and water heater vents. ✅ Check vents after every snowfall to ensure they’re free of ice and snow. ✅ Use a broom, not a shovel, to remove snow without damaging the vents.

Check Your Gas Meter & Ventilation Systems

Your outdoor gas meter is designed to withstand winter conditions, but heavy snow and ice buildup can interfere with its operation. Snow-covered meters can block important regulator vents, leading to unsafe conditions.

✅ Regularly check your gas meter for snow and ice accumulation. ✅ Avoid piling snow around or on top of the meter when shoveling. ✅ Never kick or hit the gas meter to remove ice—use a broom instead.

Keep Backup Generators Clear

If you have a backup generator, keeping it free from snow and ice is crucial for safe operation. Snow accumulation around a generator can block its air intake and exhaust, leading to poor performance or even dangerous exhaust buildup.

✅ Ensure proper airflow by keeping the generator area clear. ✅ Remove any snow or ice before operating the unit. ✅ Keep a 3-ft clearance around the generator to prevent blockages.

Additional Winter Safety Tips

🔹 Inspect your dryer vents regularly to ensure they aren’t blocked by snow or debris. 🔹 Install vent covers or screens to prevent animals from nesting inside vents. 🔹 Check your chimney and vent pipes after storms to prevent ice blockages.

Emergency Gas Leak Contact

🚨 If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and call 1-866-763-5427 for emergency gas leak reporting in Toronto. Stay outside or at a neighbor’s house until help arrives.

Final Reminder

A few minutes of maintenance after a snowfall can prevent dangerous situations in your home. Share this information with your family and neighbors to help keep everyone safe this winter! ❄️🏡