Ice and snow don’t happen often in Louisiana — and that’s exactly why they can cause problems when they do.
Most of the damage we see after winter storms happens because homes here weren’t built to withstand this kind of weather.
Here’s what we want homeowners to know before this weekend’s winter storm, based on what we see after these storms pass.
The Biggest Risk Isn’t Your Heater — It’s Your Pipes
This surprises a lot of people.
During extreme cold, frozen and burst pipes cause far more damage than HVAC systems do. And most pipe issues don’t happen at the coldest point — they happen when temperatures start to rise again.
A few simple steps make a big difference:
- Let faucets drip slightly, especially on exterior walls
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate
- If you have exposed pipes in garages or utility rooms, insulate them if possible
- Know where your main water shutoff valve is and make sure it’s accessible
What’s Normal for Your HVAC System in Extreme Cold
When temperatures drop below what we usually experience, HVAC systems will run longer and work harder. That’s expected.
You may notice:
- Longer run times
- More frequent cycling
- Warm air that doesn’t feel “hot” coming from vents
That doesn’t mean something is wrong.
One important tip: set your thermostat and leave it alone.
Constantly turning it up and down won’t heat your home faster and can actually make the system work harder.
Ice, Snow, and Outdoor Units: What Not to Do
We often see well-intended actions cause bigger problems.
Please avoid:
- Chipping or scraping ice off outdoor units
- Pouring hot water on frozen equipment
- Covering outdoor units unless they’re designed for it
These actions can damage components. If ice builds up, it’s best to let it melt naturally once temperatures improve.
Power Outages Change the Situation
Ice storms often bring power outages, which affects both HVAC and plumbing.
If the power goes out:
- Turn off or unplug sensitive equipment if possible
- Continue dripping faucets if water is still flowing
- If power is out for an extended time and temperatures are dropping, shutting off the main water supply can help prevent pipe damage
When power returns:
- Watch for leaks as pipes warm back up
- Listen for unusual sounds from your system
- Call if something doesn’t seem right — it’s always better to catch issues early rather than later
When to Call for Help — And When It Can Wait
We’re always here to help, but we also want homeowners to know what’s urgent and what isn’t.
Call right away if:
- You have no heat and temperatures are dropping
- You see water leaking or pipes have burst
- Your system shuts off completely and won’t restart
It’s usually okay to wait if:
- Your system is running longer than usual
- One room feels cooler than the rest
- You hear new but minor sounds while the system is operating
Ice and snow in Louisiana can feel overwhelming, but most storm-related issues are preventable with a few simple steps and a calm approach.
At ACA, we understand these homes, this weather, and the concerns that come with it. Our goal is to help you protect your home and stay comfortable.
If you need us before, during, or after the storm, we’re here to help.
Stay safe, stay warm, and take care this weekend.
