How to prevent ice stalagmites from building up on the furnace exhaust

exhaust-ventfurnaceice

I have a high efficiency furnace that exhausts via a pvc pipe out the side of the house, the trouble is the moisture from the exhaust forms an ice stalagmite in my driveway in the cold weather.

Are there ways to prevent this ice from building up (other than throwing salt on it twice a day)?

Best Answer

Attempt No.1

  • Acquire small plastic container.
  • Drill small holes around base to allow water to flow out.
  • Fill with salt.
  • Place under exhaust vent.
  • Wait and see what happens.

I'm hoping the moisture in the exhaust will drip into the container of salt, and then run out carrying salt with it. This might have the added benefit of dispersing salt to the nearby area, thereby preventing snow and ice from forming in the vicinity.

The down side is that instead of an ice stalagmite, I will have a plastic bucket in the driveway which will get in the way while shoveling/snow blowing.

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