02/06/2026
Throughout our recent travels, do to the lengthy period of below freezing temperatures, we have noticed several heating vents on the outside of homes and garages that have ice buildup. The ice usually builds up on the bottom where the condensation drips out and forms a long icicle. While it starts on the bottom and the heater still works, it will continue to build up. If you have a high efficiency heater with a concentric vent (such as a Rinnai) it will restrict the intake air and not run as efficient. Eventually it will restrict the intake air enough so the heater will not operate and give you a vent restriction or blocked code. We recommend you remove the ice. The best method is a hair dryer or heat gun because you can not fully get all the ice out with a tool. If melted, it will run out.