How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Kansas City Winter
Published
Practical steps to keep pipes from freezing and bursting during Northland cold snaps — and what to do if one breaks.
Know your risk spots
Pipes along exterior walls, in crawl spaces, unheated garages, and attics are most vulnerable when temperatures drop below 20°F.
Prevention checklist
Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor spigots.
Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls.
Let faucets drip slightly during hard freezes.
Keep the thermostat at 55°F or higher, even when traveling.
If a pipe bursts
Shut off the main water valve immediately, turn off power to wet areas if safe, and call for emergency extraction. Fast drying limits damage to floors and drywall.