Kansas City – if you haven’t noticed, winter is here! While snow-covered landscapes can be beautiful, freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your home—especially your plumbing. Frozen pipes aren’t just an inconvenience; they can burst, leading to costly water damage. The good news? A little bit of preparation can help you avoid this headache. Follow these simple cold-weather tips to keep your pipes safe and your home warm all season long!
Cold Weather Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes:
1. Let Faucets Drip
A slow trickle of water can prevent pressure buildup inside your pipes, reducing the risk of freezing. This is especially important for pipes along exterior walls or in colder parts of the home. Watch this video explainer.
2. Keep Cabinet Doors Open
If you have pipes under your kitchen or bathroom sink, open those cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around them. This small step can make a big difference!
3. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas like garages, basements, crawl spaces, and attics are more vulnerable to freezing. Wrap them in foam pipe insulation or use heating tape for extra protection.
4. Maintain a Consistent Thermostat Temperature
Avoid setting your thermostat too low at night. Keeping it at at least 55°F (even when you’re away) helps prevent pipes from getting too cold.
5. Close Garage Doors
If your garage has water lines running through it, be sure to keep the doors closed as much as possible to trap heat.
6. Seal Gaps & Cracks
Cold air can sneak into your home through gaps around windows, doors, and even your foundation. Use caulk or insulation to seal these openings and keep the warm air in.
7. Use Space Heaters in Vulnerable Areas
A small, well-placed space heater can help protect pipes in areas that don’t get enough heat—just be sure to follow safety precautions! Read more about space heater safety here.
8. Drain & Shut Off Outdoor Water Lines
Disconnect hoses, drain sprinkler systems, and turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets. This prevents any leftover water from freezing and causing damage.
9. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
If a pipe does freeze and burst, shutting off the water quickly can minimize damage. Take a moment to locate your main shut-off valve so you’re prepared in case of an emergency.
10. Leaving Town? Take Extra Precautions!
If you’re going out of town for an extended period:
- Shut off your home’s water supply and drain the pipes.
- Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check on your home.
- Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F.
Final Thoughts
A little winter prep can go a long way in protecting your home from frozen pipes and costly water damage. By following these tips, you can keep your plumbing in great shape and enjoy the season without any unwelcome surprises. Stay warm, stay prepared, and as always, if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home this winter, The Dani Beyer Real Estate Team is here to help!
Dani Beyer, a Kansas City native, began her career in real estate in 2004 after working in the tech industry. Since then, she's helped thousands of families turn their dreams into keys! Dani is now the CEO and Lead Listing Specialist of 'Dani Beyer Real Estate' brokered with Keller Williams KC North. She specializes in selling luxury homes in the Kansas City Northland.