Winter Storm Preparedness

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR WINTER?

Frozen Water Pipes

Emergency Plumbing for the Inland Pacific Northwest

Winter in Spokane and Northern Idaho can cause pipes to freeze, leading to blockages, leaks, or even bursts. Don’t let frozen pipes ruin your day! Mainstream Home Services offers 24/7 emergency plumbing to thaw pipes safely and repair any damage. Our expert plumbers are ready to restore your water flow quickly and efficiently. Call us now for fast, reliable service and peace of mind.

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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

Heating Maintenance & Repairs

When temperatures drop, your home’s heating system needs to be in top condition to keep your family warm. At Mainstream, we provide comprehensive heating services, including seasonal maintenance, emergency repairs, and full system tune-ups. Whether it’s a furnace not heating properly or a heat pump struggling to keep up, our expert technicians will diagnose and fix the issue quickly. Regular maintenance not only prevents breakdowns but also improves energy efficiency, saving you money. Serving Spokane and Northern Idaho, we’re here to ensure your home stays cozy all winter long. Schedule your heating service with Mainstream today!

Safety Tip for Cold Weather

Electrical Upgrades for Winter

Modern homes rely on robust electrical systems, especially during winter when space heaters, holiday lights, and new appliances add to the load. Mainstream offers expert electrical upgrades to ensure your home can handle these demands safely. From installing additional outlets and upgrading panels to wiring for new equipment, our licensed electricians deliver reliable, professional service. Based in Spokane and serving Northern Idaho, we’re here to help keep your home powered and safe through the season. Contact Mainstream Home Services today for all your electrical needs!

Spokane Service Area

Greater Spokane & Beyond

We proudly service the following cities and neighborhoods in Spokane & Northern Idaho:

Not seeing your area? Give us a call at 509-237-6483

Winter Weather

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you provide winter emergency service in my area?

Yes, Mainstream Home Services offers 24/7 winter emergency services throughout Spokane and Northern Idaho. Whether it’s frozen pipes, heating system failures, or electrical issues, our expert team is always ready to help. We proudly serve homes across the region—check out our Service Area page for more details. Call us anytime for fast, reliable winter emergency services!

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.

The Mainstream Difference

Why Spokane Homeowners Choose Mainstream

Welcome to Mainstream Home Services – your one-stop solution for all your electrical, heating, cooling, and plumbing needs. Here’s why you should trust us with your home services:

Flexible Scheduling

We respect your time and prioritize efficient communication. We ensure minimal wait times for our technicians, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your home. Expect a call before our technician arrives, giving you the flexibility to plan your day accordingly.

Transparent Pricing

No surprises, no hidden costs. Our upfront pricing provides competitive quotes tailored to your specific service requirements. You'll receive a detailed breakdown of the work involved, ensuring transparency and total peace of mind.

Expert Technicians

Our friendly, skilled technicians are experts in electrical, heating, cooling, and plumbing services. With state-of-the-art tools and expertise, we guarantee precise, code-compliant work. Your home will be left spotless, reflecting our commitment to cleanliness and professionalism.