RALEIGH (WTVD) -- As the Triangle braces for winter weather, heating and plumbing companies are busy responding to calls for service.
"My husband woke me up this morning saying we did not have any heat," said Gertha Heggie.
The Raleigh homeowner quickly called for help, but the cold was too much to handle.
"I left the house," said Heggie.
It did not take long for a technician to pinpoint the problem. The cold temperatures created electrical issues causing the system to shut off.
"We're having to melt the ice off of them and repipe them so it doesn't do it again," said technician Charlie Foster.
Similar calls for service are spiking. Since Tuesday, Michael & Son has received more than 50 calls from customers without heat or hot water.
With snow in the forecast this weekend, crews are planning to work overtime to accommodate customers.
"I'm on call Friday and Saturday so I'm definitely prepared to work longer hours," said technician Adam Krasowski.
Tips To Avoid Damage:
Locate Main Water Shut Off
Turn off Sprinkler Systems
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Repair Existing Leaks
ABC11 Eyewitness News will be starting at 4 a.m. Friday with live winter weather coverage. Tune in!