As anyone who lives in Kansas can attest, our winters can be bone chillingly cold. And when temps dip below 20°F, Wichita homeowners may have to deal with frozen pipes. As your trusted plumbing experts, we understand the headaches that come with chilly temperatures wreaking havoc on your plumbing system.
Fear not, for we're here with a guide to help you prevent and thaw those frosty dilemmas.
How To Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing
- Insulate Your Pipes. The first line of defense against frozen pipes is proper insulation. Ensure that vulnerable pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics are well-insulated. Pipe sleeves or heat tape can work wonders in keeping the cold at bay.
- Seal Air Leaks: Cold drafts can find their way into your home, affecting exposed pipes. Seal any gaps or cracks in your walls, windows, and doors to minimize the chances of freezing. It's like giving your pipes a warm, winter coat.
- Set Faucets To Drip: On very cold days, allow faucets to drip slightly. This is especially important for faucets exposed to exterior walls. The movement of water can prevent it from freezing within the pipes. You don’t need to leave it on more than a slow drip.
- Keep Heat at 55°F Minimum: Even if you’re not going to be home, don't turn the heat off completely. Maintain a reasonable temperature in your home to prevent the pipes from freezing in frigid conditions.
- Open Cabinet Doors: For pipes located under sinks, open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate. This allows warm household air to heat the pipes underneath the sink.
Step-By-Step: How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes
- Locate the Freeze: If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, there's a good chance you have a frozen pipe. Identify the affected area before proceeding. If you are unable to find the freeze, we can help you locate it!
- Open The Faucet: As you begin the thawing process, keep the affected faucet open. This helps to relieve pressure and allows water to flow freely once the pipe is thawed.
- Apply Gentle Heat: Use a hairdryer, heat lamp, or towels soaked in hot water to apply gentle heat to the frozen section of the pipe. WARNING: Never use an open flame, as it can damage the pipe.
- Check Other Taps: If one pipe is frozen in your home, others may be too. Check every faucet internally and externally.
What To Do If a Pipe Has Burst
If you have a burst pipe from freezing, this is an emergency! Turn off your water main and call the professionals. Professional plumbers like Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Wichita have the experience and tools to identify and repair burst frozen pipes efficiently.
Winter plumbing woes may be an unwelcome guest, but with these preventive measures and thawing techniques, you'll be well-equipped to handle whatever the season throws at your pipes. Our plumbers are available 24/7, seven days a week, so if winter hits your home you can count on us to help.
Written by the Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Wichita team — Licensed & insured.
Wichita License #5377.
2825 E. Kellogg Dr, Wichita Ks 67211
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