Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about your home’s essential systems? At IGD Plumbing & Air, we believe in providing the clarity you need to make informed decisions for your property. We have compiled these expert answers to help you troubleshoot common issues and understand your service options. From maintenance tips to emergency advice, we are here to ensure your home remains safe and comfortable year-round.

If your AC condensate line is leaking in Harris County, it usually means water is not draining properly from your system. Your air conditioner removes intense Texas humidity from the air; that moisture condenses and drains through the condensate line. If that line gets clogged or blocked by algae or local dust, water can back up and leak inside your home.

  • Common Causes: Algae or sludge buildup, a clogged drain trap, a cracked drain pipe, or a rusted drain pan.
  • Risks: If ignored, it can cause severe water damage to ceilings or mold growth.
  • Prevention: Schedule annual AC maintenance, flush the drain line regularly, and ensure your system has a safety float switch installed.

Many homeowners don’t realize that this small pipe is one of the most common causes of ceiling water damage in Houston homes. If you notice water near your indoor AC unit, turn the system off immediately and call for an inspection.

In the Greater Houston Area, gas water heater installations must follow state plumbing regulations and the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC). A licensed plumber must ensure the installation meets these safety standards:

  • Proper Venting: Must have a draft hood and a vent connector that rises upward (minimum 1/4 inch per foot) to prevent carbon monoxide backflow.
  • Gas Line Installation: Requires an approved shut-off valve and a sediment trap (drip leg) to catch debris before it enters the burner.
  • T&P Relief Valve: A discharge pipe must terminate within 6 inches of the floor to protect your Katy or Humble home from the risk of an explosion due to pressure buildup.
  • Drain Pan: Required by code when the unit is installed in an attic or above a finished living space to prevent flood damage.

A licensed plumber in Montgomery County is legally responsible for the safety of the system they touch. If a water heater is improperly vented or missing a T&P discharge pipe, the plumber cannot legally “just fix one part” and leave the rest in an unsafe state. Once work is performed, liability falls on the professional. For the protection of the homeowner, the family, and the plumber’s license, a technician must either bring the system into compliance with code or refuse service until safety corrections are made. Code compliance for gas appliances is not optional in the State of Texas.

For residents in Kingwood and Magnolia, we recommend a professional plumbing inspection at least once a year. The expansive clay soils of Harris County put unique stress on your pipes. Annual checks allow us to test your water pressure, flush your water heater to remove sediment, and inspect shut-off valves before an emergency occurs.

If your furnace is blowing cold air, it could be a tripped limit switch, a faulty igniter, or a clogged air filter restricting airflow. In Jersey Village and Tomball, we often find that the flame sensor has become dirty from summer dormancy, preventing the burners from staying lit. If your thermostat is set to “On” instead of “Auto,” the fan will also blow air even when the heater isn’t cycling.

Because of our high temperatures, refrigerant issues are common. Signs include lukewarm air coming from vents, “hissing” or “bubbling” noises from the indoor unit, and ice forming on the copper refrigerant lines. If your home in The Woodlands or Cypress is taking significantly longer to cool down than usual, you likely have a leak that needs a professional sub-cooling and super-heat diagnostic.

In the Houston region, your HVAC system works harder than in almost any other part of the country. Regular maintenance ensures that your coils are clean and your motor is lubricated, reducing the “drag” on your system. A clean system runs shorter cycles to reach the same temperature, which can lower monthly utility bills in Atascocita and Spring by 15% to 20%.