Winter Storm Preparedness

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR WINTER?

Frozen Water Pipes

Emergency Plumbing in Texas

Brace for the looming winter storm! Ensure your home’s safety and comfort with Radiant® Plumbing and Air Conditioning’s prompt winter emergency inspection. Our experts are at the forefront of winterization, protecting your plumbing and HVAC against harsh conditions. The clock is ticking – a timely inspection is key to preventing issues after the storm and maintaining a cozy, secure home environment.

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For lower-level emergences, used our online form to reach us 24/7 about any plumbing issue you’re having within your home.

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Cold Weather Tips

Electric Heat Pumps in Cold Weather

In “all electric” homes, heat pumps are commonly used for winter heating. These systems, ideal for mild climates, operate differently in freezing temperatures.

Defrost Cycle: Your heat pump will enter a defrost cycle in near-freezing conditions. You might notice unusual sounds and steam from the outdoor unit. This is a normal process to melt any ice forming on the unit. To check if your heat pump is functioning properly, compare the thermostat setting with the actual indoor temperature. A significant difference indicates it’s time to consult a professional.

Auxiliary Heat: During extreme cold (below freezing), heat pumps may switch to auxiliary heat. This shift is standard and temporary; the system reverts to the heat pump when temperatures rise above freezing.

Safety Tip for Cold Weather

Home Heating Safety For Gas Furnaces

Natural gas or propane gas furnaces are popular in many homes for efficient heating. To ensure safety and optimal performance, it’s crucial to have these systems annually inspected by a licensed professional. The key aspects of this check include:

Ensuring the furnace is clean and clear of any debris in the burner area.
Inspecting for potential hazards like cracked or rusted heat exchangers or malfunctioning burners. Faulty systems can produce dangerous carbon monoxide.

Additionally, homeowners should regularly test and maintain their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, ensuring they have functional batteries.

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Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning operates across Austin and San Antonio, keeping over 10,000 homeowners happy with home repairs, installations, and maintenance.

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Winter Weather

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you provide winter emergency service in my area?

At Radiant Plumbing and Air, we’re here to serve you across Central Texas, including the wonderful cities of Austin and San Antonio. When it comes to winter weather emergencies, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We understand that urgent repairs can’t wait, and if you have an emergency that requires immediate attention, rest assured, we’re on our way to help you.

However, during major weather storms, like the ones we occasionally experience in Texas, we may need to schedule your service for a slightly later time. Please don’t worry, though – our expert team will still be there as quickly as possible, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way. You won’t be left out in the cold.

When your home needs it most, remember to call Radiant Plumbing and Air. We’re here for you, ready to provide the trusted, reliable service you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us now for emergency service – your comfort is our mission!

Why is my heat pump blowing cold air in the winter?

If your heat pump is blowing cold air during winter, consider these potential causes:

Defrost Mode: Heat pumps periodically enter defrost mode to prevent ice buildup on the outdoor coils. During this phase, it’s normal for the system to blow cooler air temporarily. This cycle typically lasts just a few minutes and shouldn’t impact your home’s overall warmth.
Dirty Air Filters: Clogged filters can restrict airflow, impacting the heat pump’s efficiency. Regular maintenance, including filter cleaning or replacement, is essential for optimal operation.
Thermostat Settings: Ensure your thermostat is set correctly. If it’s on “ON” instead of “AUTO,” the fan will run continuously, blowing air even when the system isn’t heating.
Refrigerant Leak: A leak can significantly reduce heating efficiency. If you suspect a refrigerant issue, a professional HVAC technician should address it as it requires specialized handling.

Reversing Valve Problems: This valve changes the refrigerant flow direction, switching between heating and cooling. If it’s malfunctioning, the heat pump may not switch modes properly, leading to cold air output in heat mode. This issue also requires professional attention.

What is the lowest temperature a heat pump can operate at?

Air-source heat pumps are designed to extract heat from the outside air, but their efficiency decreases in colder temperatures. Typically, they operate best down to about 23°F. Below this, especially around or below 30°F, their ability to heat effectively diminishes as less heat energy is available in the external air. Heat pumps may still work in these lower temperatures but often require auxiliary heating systems, like electric resistance heaters, for additional warmth.

While standard heat pumps struggle in extreme cold, newer models are better equipped for lower temperatures, functioning efficiently even below 23°F. However, as temperatures drop significantly, maintaining indoor warmth can still be challenging for many models.

How do I defrost my heat pump?

To defrost your heat pump, it’s important to first understand that modern heat pumps are usually equipped with an automatic defrost cycle. This system is designed to detect ice buildup and initiate a defrost cycle as needed. Here’s what you can do:

Check the Automatic Defrost Function: Ensure that your heat pump’s automatic defrost cycle is functioning correctly. In most cases, the system should detect ice accumulation and switch to defrost mode on its own.
Manual Intervention: If your heat pump does not have an automatic defrost cycle or it’s not functioning properly, you can manually initiate the process. First, turn off the heat pump at the breaker to ensure safety.
Melting the Ice: Use a hose to spray warm (not hot) water over the ice. This can help speed up the melting process. Avoid using any sharp objects to chip away at the ice, as this can damage the unit.

Avoid Direct Heat Sources: Do not use open flames or extremely hot water to melt the ice, as this can damage the system.

My pipes froze, how do I safely thaw them?

Thawing frozen pipes safely is crucial to prevent further damage or potential burst pipes. Here are some steps to safely thaw frozen pipes:

Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate your main water shutoff valve and turn it off. This step is essential to prevent water from flowing through the frozen pipe once it thaws.
Open Faucets: Open the affected faucet or faucets connected to the frozen pipe. This will allow any water and pressure to escape when the ice thaws, reducing the risk of pipe damage.
Apply Heat Gradually: There are several methods to apply heat safely to the frozen pipe:
- Hair Dryer: Use a hair dryer on the low or medium heat setting to warm the pipe slowly. Start at the faucet end and work your way toward the blockage.
- Heat Lamp or Infrared Light: If the pipe is accessible but behind a wall or in a tight space, you can use a heat lamp or an infrared light to radiate heat onto the frozen section.
- Warm Towels: Wrapping warm, damp towels around the pipe can also help thaw it. Change the towels as they cool down.
Avoid Open Flames or Electric Heaters: Do not use open flames, propane torches, or electric heaters with exposed heating elements to thaw pipes. These methods can be dangerous and may damage the pipe or surrounding materials.
Be Patient: Thawing a frozen pipe takes time. Be patient and allow the heat source to work gradually. Applying too much heat too quickly can increase the risk of pipe damage.
Check for Leaks: After successfully thawing the pipe, check for any leaks or cracks. If you notice any, you’ll need to repair or replace the damaged section.
Insulate and Prevent Future Freezing: Once the pipe is thawed and any necessary repairs are made, insulate the pipes to prevent future freezing. Also, take steps to better insulate your home to prevent pipes from freezing during future winter storms.

Remember that if you are uncomfortable or unsure about safely thawing frozen pipes, it’s best to call a professional plumber for assistance. Read our blog post about preventative measures, such as insulating pipes and ensuring your home is adequately prepared for winter, can help reduce the likelihood of frozen pipes in the first place.

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