How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Kansas Winters
Kansas winters can be brutal, and frozen pipes are one of the most common — and costly — plumbing problems homeowners face this time of year. When water freezes, it expands. That expansion can crack pipes and lead to major water damage once they thaw.
The good news? Frozen pipes are often preventable with a little preparation. Here’s what every Kansas homeowner should know.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem in Kansas Homes
Homes in Kansas are especially vulnerable to frozen pipes due to fluctuating winter temperatures and strong cold fronts. Pipes are most likely to freeze when they are located in:
Basements and crawl spaces
Garages
Exterior walls
Under sinks near outside walls
Outdoor water lines and hose bibs
Even newer homes can experience frozen pipes if exposed plumbing is not properly protected.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Insulating pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and garages helps prevent freezing. Pipe insulation is affordable and provides an effective layer of protection during cold weather.
Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold
Allowing faucets to drip slightly keeps water moving through the pipes, which helps prevent freezing. This is especially important for pipes along exterior walls.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Outdoor hoses should always be disconnected before winter. Leaving hoses attached can cause water to freeze inside the pipe, leading to cracks or bursts inside the wall.
Keep Cabinet Doors Open
Opening cabinets under sinks allows warm air to circulate around plumbing, reducing the risk of freezing during overnight temperature drops.
Maintain Heat in Your Home
Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even if you are away. Turning the heat off completely during winter increases the risk of frozen and burst pipes.
Signs You May Have a Frozen Pipe
If you notice any of the following, you may already have a frozen pipe:
Little or no water coming from a faucet
Frost on exposed pipes
Unusual smells from drains
Visible bulging in pipes
If you suspect a frozen pipe, avoid using open flames to thaw it. Frozen pipes can easily burst if not handled correctly.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Frozen pipes can quickly turn into a plumbing emergency. If you are unable to locate the frozen section, safely thaw the pipe, or if a pipe has already burst, it is important to contact a licensed plumber right away.
Fitzpatrick Plumbing LLC provides reliable plumbing services for homeowners throughout Kansas. We can inspect your plumbing system, thaw frozen pipes safely, and repair or replace damaged lines.
Learn more about our emergency plumbing services.
Serving Lawrence & the Kansas City Metro
As a family-owned plumbing company, Fitzpatrick Plumbing helps homeowners throughout Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro keep their pipes running smoothly. We serve the surrounding towns and cities including Tonganoxie, Basehor, Eudora, DeSoto, Overland Park, Lenexa, and more! We believe in fair pricing, friendly service, and honest recommendations - whether it’s a simple fix or full replacement.
Need Help With a Frozen Pipe Issue?
If your pipes are frozen or have burst, contact Fitzpatrick Plumbing today to schedule service.
