Winter Storm Preparedness

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR WINTER?

Frozen Water Pipes

Emergency Plumbing in Albuquerque

Brace for the looming winter storm! Ensure your home’s safety and comfort with B. Carlson Heating, Cooling and Plumbing’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

Frozen Pipes? We’ve Got You Covered.

Albuquerque’s cold snaps can cause a major headache for homeowners—frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, water inside your pipes can freeze, expanding and putting pressure on the system. This can lead to blockages, leaks, or even burst pipes. At B. Carlson, we’re available 24/7 to tackle frozen pipe issues quickly and safely. Our experienced plumbers can thaw frozen pipes, repair damage, and get your water flowing again in no time. Don’t let the freeze disrupt your day—call us now to restore your plumbing fast.

Safety Tip for Cold Weather

Heat Out? We’ll Bring the Warmth Back.

When Albuquerque’s chilly winters hit, a broken furnace or poorly performing heat pump is more than inconvenient—it’s uncomfortable and unsafe. Whether your furnace won’t start, your heat pump isn’t keeping up, or you’re seeing skyrocketing energy bills, B. Carlson is here to help. Our skilled HVAC technicians provide fast, reliable repairs to Albuquerque homes for over 50 years. We’re available 24/7 to handle any heating emergency, ensuring you stay comfortable all winter long. Call us today for expert heating repairs you can trust.

Service Area

Home Services in Albuquerque, Santa Fe & Beyond

We proudly service the following cities and neighborhoods across New Mexico:

Not seeing your area? Give us a call at 505-349-4409

Winter Weather

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you provide winter emergency service in my area?

Yes, B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers 24/7 winter emergency services throughout Albuquerque and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re dealing with a broken furnace, a heat pump that’s not working, or frozen pipes, our experienced team is here to help. Call us anytime, day or night, for fast, reliable service to keep your home safe and warm this winter.

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

If your heat pump is blowing cold air in the winter, here are some potential causes:

Defrost Mode: Heat pumps occasionally enter defrost mode to prevent ice buildup on the outdoor coils. This process can cause cooler air to blow temporarily but should only last a few minutes.
Dirty Air Filters: Clogged filters restrict airflow and reduce heating efficiency. Regularly clean or replace filters to maintain optimal performance.
Thermostat Settings: Ensure your thermostat is set to “AUTO” instead of “ON.” When set to “ON,” the fan may blow air continuously, even when the system isn’t actively heating.
Refrigerant Leak: Low refrigerant levels can drastically reduce heating efficiency. A professional technician is required to diagnose and repair this issue.
Reversing Valve Issues: The reversing valve switches the heat pump between heating and cooling modes. If it malfunctions, the system may blow cold air even in heat mode. This problem also requires professional repair.

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

Air-source heat pumps are designed to extract heat from the air, but their efficiency decreases as temperatures drop. Most standard models operate effectively down to around 23°F, though their performance may diminish near or below 30°F, requiring auxiliary heating systems like electric resistance heaters for additional warmth.

Newer, high-performance heat pumps are designed to handle colder climates and can function efficiently even below 23°F. However, in extreme cold, maintaining consistent indoor warmth can still pose a challenge for many systems. For the best results, ensure your heat pump is properly maintained and consider a backup heating source for particularly harsh winters.

How do I defrost my heat pump?

Modern heat pumps typically have an automatic defrost cycle to handle ice buildup. If ice persists, follow these steps:

Check the Automatic Defrost Function: Ensure your heat pump’s defrost cycle is working. This system should detect ice and activate automatically.
Manual Defrost: If the automatic cycle isn’t working, turn off the heat pump at the breaker for safety before proceeding.
Melt the Ice: Spray warm (not hot) water over the ice to speed up the melting process. Never use sharp objects to chip away ice, as this can damage the unit.
Avoid Direct Heat: Do not use open flames or very hot water, as they can harm the system.

If issues persist, contact a professional technician to inspect your heat pump and ensure proper operation.

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.

The B. Carlson Difference

Discover the B. Carlson Difference

Experience unmatched expertise, reliable service, and skilled care with every job we do.

Over 50 Years of Trusted Home Services

For more than 50 years, B. Carlson has delivered top-quality home services. Our licensed and insured technicians bring expert skills to every job, ensuring your repairs and maintenance are done right. We’re committed to excellence in everything we do.

Dependable Service You Can Trust

At B. Carlson, trust is at the heart of everything we do. Our fully licensed and insured team guarantees reliable installations and repairs every time. You can count on us to keep your home systems running smoothly, with expert care.

Your Local Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing Experts

From plumbing issues to A/C tune-ups, B. Carlson has you covered. With our expertise in all home systems, we handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. Count on us for fast, skilled service for every job.