Homeowners urged to clear these 3 critical areas now after Snowstorm Fern

With much of the U.S. still dealing with the aftermath of Winter Storm Fern, many homeowners have been busy shoveling and removing heavy snowfall and ice from their property. Besides ensuring that all pathways and driveways are safe for walking, there are some key areas around your home that you need to inspect and maintain.

In fact, protecting your home from freezing weather is essential not just for keeping warm and maintaining functionality, but also for eliminating the risk of danger. So if you find yourself snowed in, be sure to get these critical areas cleared of snow right now.

1. Gas-powered furnace exhaust vents and water heater vents

It’s important to keep these essential utility vents clear from snow or ice buildup to prevent blockages. Blocked vents pose a danger — not only do they restrict airflow, making appliances less efficient or causing them to shut down completely, but more crucially, they can lead to lethal gases like carbon monoxide backing up and entering your home.

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2. Dryer vents

Similarly, if you own one of the best dryers, a clogged dryer vent could prevent it from performing as well as it should. This is mainly because blocked vents and a restricted airflow will make it much harder for the dryer to expel moisture-laden air effectively. As a result, you’ll likely get longer drying times and increased energy consumption.

More importantly, blockages could potentially trap lint (that would otherwise be expelled), and at worse case, create a fire hazard.

3. Exterior gas meters

Another area not to forget is exterior gas meters. According to experts, a buildup of heavy snow places stress on your meter piping, which can cause a gas leak if it gets damaged.

Also note that every meter has a pressure relief vent. And so it’s essential to keep the pressure relief vent on your meter clear of snow and debris. Additionally, ensure the entire meter is accessible, as emergency response crews must be able to reach it quickly in an emergency.

How to clear vents from snow and ice

The best way to clear these essential vents is to use a small broom or brush to carefully brush away the snow. Avoid using a metal shovel, ice scraper, or other hard objects, which could damage the vents. What’s more, if you’re dealing with frozen icicles around pipes, you could try this hairdryer hack, which is the easiest way to defrost them without causing damage.

More importantly, always take safety precautions when venturing out in heavy snowfall or slippery ice when clearing snow around your home. Plus, never climb an icy roof to clear snow — here's the safe way to remove dangerous buildup. The last thing you want is a serious accident waiting to happen, so proceed with care.

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• Snowstorm heading your way? Here's why you should put a quarter on a frozen cup of water
• Dripping faucets prevents frozen pipes in your home — here's how to do it
• Never climb an icy roof to clear snow — here's the safe way to remove dangerous buildup