Winter Storm Service FAQs Urgent / Safety First
We’re getting a high influx of calls due to freezing weather. Use these quick notes for safe, immediate guidance while you wait. If you smell gas, see sparks, or have active flooding, stop and call emergency services.
No Hot Water or No Water at All
- High call volume is common during freezes — we’re working through requests as fast as possible.
- If pipes are frozen, they must be thawed before most repairs can be completed.
- A technician may be able to attempt thawing, but diagnosis/repair is limited until lines are fully thawed.
If you see leaking, shut off the main water valve if safe to do so.
No Water / No Hot Water and You Have a Well
- Warm the well house carefully with a safe heat source (monitor closely).
- Examples: space heater or hair dryer (avoid open flame).
- Leave a faucet or hose bib ON to encourage flow once thawed.
Avoid extension cords that feel hot or damaged — fire risk.
Tankless Water Heater (Especially If Outside)
- If the unit is outside, gently warm the copper fittings with a blow dryer.
- This can resolve freeze-related issues after some time.
- The unit typically must be thawed before diagnosis can begin.
Do not use open flame or high-heat torches on equipment.
HVAC “Not Keeping Up” / Auxiliary (Emergency) Heat
- Aux/emergency heat can be normal during freezing weather.
- If it’s not keeping up, try lowering the thermostat slightly.
- Once stable, raise temperature in 2° steps.
- If there’s no improvement after 1–2 hours, call back for next steps.
If you smell burning or see smoke, shut the system off and call immediately.
Founded in 2001, Streamline Services specializes in plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling solutions across the Triangle region, including Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Under Bob’s leadership, the company has built a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and community engagement. As a licensed contractor, Bob holds North Carolina plumbing license #23908 ensuring that Streamline Services meets the highest industry standards. Beyond his role at Streamline Services, Bob is actively involved in the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (PHCC) of North Carolina. He serves as the President of the Triangle Chapter and member of the Board of Directors for North Carolina, where he collaborates with industry peers to promote education, safety, and advocacy within the trade. phccnc.com
Written by
Bob Sweet
Bob Sweet is the President and Owner of Streamline Services, a fifth-generation, family-owned company based in Durham, North Carolina. Founded in 2001, Streamline Services specializes in plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling solutions across the Triangle region, including Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Under Bob’s leadership, the company has built a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and community engagement. As a licensed contractor, Bob holds North Carolina plumbing license #23908 ensuring that Streamline Services meets the highest industry standards.
