Winter in Wichita, Kansas can be unpredictable. One week it’s 50°, the next we’re waking up to single-digit temps and biting wind. Those sudden cold snaps are exactly when frozen and burst pipes become a serious risk for homeowners.

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Wichita, we see pipe damage every winter and most of it is preventable. Here’s how to protect your home before temperatures drop.

Why Frozen Pipes Are Such a Big Deal

When water freezes, it expands. That expansion puts extreme pressure on your pipes, and they can crack or burst, even if the ice blockage is somewhere else in the line.

A burst pipe can lead to:

  • Major water damage
  • Mold growth
  • Expensive repairs
  • Emergency plumbing calls in the middle of the night

Taking a few simple steps now can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.

Pipes Most at Risk of Freezing in Wichita Homes

Certain areas of your home are more vulnerable during Kansas cold snaps:

  • Pipes in unheated basements
  • Plumbing in garages
  • Pipes running along exterior walls
  • Crawl spaces without insulation
  • Outdoor hose bibs and sprinkler lines

If your home is older, the risk can be even higher due to less insulation and outdated pipe materials.

8 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter:

  • Insulate Exposed Pipes

Use foam pipe insulation on any visible pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages. This is one of the easiest and most effective steps.

  • Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Before a freeze in Wichita:

  • Remove garden hoses from outdoor spigot
  • Shut off interior supply valves (if you have them)
  • Drain outdoor faucets

Leaving hoses connected can trap water that freezes and backs up into your plumbing.

  • Cover Outdoor Faucets

Install insulated faucet covers over exterior spigots. They’re inexpensive and provide important protection from wind and freezing temps.

  • Keep Your Thermostat Consistent

Even if you’re trying to save on heating bills, don’t let your home drop below 55°F. Sudden cold dips inside the house can freeze pipes in walls.

  • Open Cabinet Doors

On especially cold Wichita nights, open cabinets under sinks, especially on exterior walls. This allows warm air to circulate around plumbing.

  • Let Faucets Drip During Deep Freezes

When temperatures drop well below freezing, let faucets connected to vulnerable pipes drip slightly. Moving water is less likely to freeze.

  • Seal Drafts Around Pipes

Check for gaps where pipes enter your home. Cold air sneaking in through cracks can freeze pipes quickly. Use caulk or insulation to seal those openings.

  • Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Is

If a pipe does freeze and burst, shutting off your water fast can dramatically reduce damage. Make sure everyone in the household knows where the shut-off valve is!

What If Your Pipes Do Freeze?

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may have a frozen pipe.

What to do:

  • Keep the faucet open
  • Apply gentle heat (hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels)
  • NEVER use an open flame
  • Don’t ignore it, pressure can still cause a burst

If you can’t locate the frozen area or nothing starts flowing, it’s time to call a professional plumber.

When to Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Wichita

Call right away if you notice:

  • No water from multiple fixtures
  • Frost on visible pipes
  • Water stains on walls or ceilings
  • A sudden drop in water pressure
  • A burst pipe or active leak

Our licensed plumbers understand Wichita winter plumbing issues and can respond quickly to prevent further damage.

Protect Your Wichita Home Before the Next Cold

Kansas weather doesn’t always give much warning. Taking preventative steps now is the best way to avoid emergency plumbing repairs later.

Need help insulating pipes or winterizing your plumbing system? Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Wichita is here to keep your water flowing safely all winter long.