Winter Storm Preparedness

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR WINTER?

Frozen Water Pipes

Emergency Plumbers in Texas

Brace for the looming winter storm! Ensure your Fredericksburg home is ready with 72 Degrees Texas’ prompt winter emergency inspection. Our experts specialize in winterizing plumbing and HVAC systems to handle harsh Texas conditions. Don’t wait—schedule your inspection now to protect your home and stay warm this winter.

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Tell Us More About the Issue

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 a common solution for winter heating, especially in mild climates. However, they operate differently in freezing conditions:

  • Defrost Cycle: During near-freezing temperatures, your heat pump enters a defrost cycle to melt ice on the outdoor unit. This may cause unusual sounds or steam—both are normal. If the indoor temperature significantly differs from your thermostat setting, it’s time to call a professional.
  • Auxiliary Heat: In extreme cold (below freezing), your heat pump may switch to auxiliary heat for added warmth. This is temporary and will return to normal operation as temperatures rise.

If your heat pump isn’t performing as expected, contact us for expert assistance!

Safety Tip for Cold Weather

Winter Plumbing Readiness

As winter sets in, your water heater becomes a critical part of your home’s comfort. Cold temperatures put added strain on this system, making proper maintenance essential to avoid breakdowns or costly repairs.

  • Flush the Tank: Sediment buildup reduces efficiency and can lead to damage. A professional flush removes debris and ensures your water heater works at its best.
  • Check the Temperature Setting: Keep your thermostat at 120°F to prevent scalding and conserve energy during the winter.
  • Inspect for Leaks: Small leaks can worsen in cold weather. Regular checks and timely repairs keep your home protected.

Stay ahead of winter plumbing issues—schedule a water heater tune-up today to ensure reliable hot water when you need it most!

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Winter Weather

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, 72 Degrees Texas offers 24/7 winter emergency services across Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and the Texas Hill Country. Whether it’s a frozen pipe, a failing water heater, or a heating system breakdown, our expert technicians are always ready to help. Contact us anytime at (830) 468-5316, and we’ll work to restore your home’s comfort as quickly as possible.

If your heat pump is blowing cold air in the winter, it could be due to:

  • Defrost Mode: This is a normal process to melt ice on the outdoor unit.
  • Thermostat Issues: Ensure it’s set to “AUTO” rather than “ON.”
  • Dirty Filters: Clogged filters can restrict airflow and reduce heating efficiency.
  • Refrigerant Problems: Low levels require professional attention.

If your heat pump isn’t heating properly, call 72 Degrees Texas at (830) 468-5316 for expert HVAC repair services in Fredericksburg and the Texas Hill Country.

Air-source heat pumps are designed to extract heat from the outside air, but their efficiency decreases as temperatures drop. Most standard models perform best down to around 23°F, but their ability to heat effectively diminishes below this range. In extreme cold, many heat pumps rely on auxiliary heating systems, such as electric resistance heaters, to maintain warmth.

Newer, high-performance heat pumps are built to handle colder conditions and can operate efficiently even below 23°F. However, in freezing Texas Hill Country winters, supplemental heating may still be necessary for consistent indoor comfort.

If your heat pump is struggling, 72 Degrees Texas can help. Call us at (830) 468-5316 for expert HVAC service in Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and beyond.

Yes, but follow these safety tips:

  • Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from flammable objects.
  • Plug it directly into a wall outlet (not an extension cord).
  • Turn it off when unattended or before sleeping.

For a safer, more efficient heating solution, consider an HVAC upgrade. Contact 72 Degrees Texas to discuss your options!

Here’s how to safely thaw frozen pipes:

  1. Turn off the water supply to prevent bursts.
  2. Open the faucet slightly to relieve pressure.
  3. Use a hairdryer or warm towels to thaw the pipe gradually.


Avoid open flames, as they can damage the pipes. If you need professional help, call 72 Degrees Texas at (830) 468-5316.

The 72 Degrees Difference

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For over three decades, 72 Degrees has been a beacon of reliability in home services. Since 1986, thousands of satisfied customers have experienced our commitment to getting the job done right the first time. And on the rare occasion things aren’t perfect, we make it right, ensuring peace of mind with every service.

Dependable, Flexible Service

We value your time. That's why 72 Degrees offers flexible scheduling to fit your busy life, including 24/7 availability for your urgent service needs. No matter your schedule, our team in Fredericksburg is ready to provide timely and efficient service.

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Our expertise spans all essential home systems— heating, cooling, and plumbing. Choosing 72 Degrees means entrusting your home to Fredericksburg’s leading experts, guaranteed. With us, you receive the most comprehensive and reliable service for any system upgrade or repair.

Winter Weather Blog