As temperatures across the Inland Northwest dip to unusually cold temperatures, homeowners can take key steps to keep furnaces and heat pumps working well. This is especially important in newer homes fitted with condensate lines connected to 95% Efficient Furnaces, which are recently required by the state of Washington.

Condensate lines from furnaces can freeze in extremely low temperatures, causing furnaces to stop working properly. As part of our 300-point inspection, Hayden Homes makes sure that all condensate lines are wrapped in heat tape to assist in prevention of freezing. However, in exceptionally frigid conditions lines may become too cold to operate as designed.

When very cold temperatures are expected, homeowners should:

• Inspect water lines coming into the furnace to ensure heat tape is properly in place, making sure tape is in full contact with the pipe for the entire length. Add additional heat tape to provide extra protection.
• Heat tape can be found at any local hardware store (i.e. Lowes, Home Depot, ACE Hardware, etc.).
• Monitor lines frequently to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Make sure all foam blocks are placed in all vent wells except one block on either side of the house as far away from main water line as possible.
• Replacement foam blocks can be found at any local hardware store (i.e. Lowes, Home Depot, ACE Hardware, etc.). Foam blocks come in multiple sizes, and existing foam blocks should be referenced for accurate size.
• Leave bathroom and bedroom doors open so heat can circulate properly throughout the house.
• Change your water heater to 100 percent electric mode to avoid over-use of heat pumps.

Some actions are dangerous and should be avoided:

• Do not place space heaters in enclosed areas where furnaces may be located.
• Do not leave access open to attic areas where furnaces may be located. If left open, warmer air could reach the furnace area, resulting in possible condensation.

Hayden Homes homeowners with questions or concerns about their furnaces should contact our warranty department at 800-923-6607. Our team members are standing by to provide tips and support to homeowners with questions about keeping home systems running well, even in the midst of unforeseeable weather events.