As temperatures drop in Wichita, Kansas, and surrounding areas, homeowners must take steps to winterize their homes properly. One common but often overlooked mistake is leaving your garden hose connected to your outdoor water hydrant (also known as an outdoor spigot or faucet) during the winter months.
• Why you should never leave a hose attached in winter
• How it can cause pipe damage and costly plumbing repairs
• Signs your outdoor faucet or pipes may have frozen
• How to prevent winter plumbing disasters
• What to do if your pipes freeze or burst
• Why Premier Plumbing Wichita is your best choice for plumbing repairs
While it may seem harmless, this small oversight can lead to major plumbing issues—from frozen pipes to burst water lines, resulting in expensive repairs and serious damage to your home. In this article, we will explore:
If you’re facing plumbing issues due to frozen pipes, call Premier Plumbing Wichita today at 📞 316-778-9722 or visit 💻 www.PremierPlumbingWichita.com for fast and professional service!
Why You Should Never Leave Your Hose Connected in Winter
During cold weather, any water left in a garden hose can freeze and expand. When a hose is still connected to an outdoor hydrant, ice can travel into the spigot and, eventually, back into your plumbing system.
This can cause pressure to build up inside the pipes, leading to cracks, leaks, or complete pipe bursts. Even if you have a frost-free spigot, leaving the hose attached defeats its purpose, as water will remain trapped inside, leading to potential freeze damage.
How It Can Cause Costly Repairs
The consequences of freezing water hydrants and pipes can be severe. Here’s how a simple oversight can lead to expensive damage:
1️⃣ Pipe Expansion and Bursting • As water freezes, it expands, increasing pressure inside the plumbing system.
• This pressure buildup can cause pipes to crack—even inside your home.
• A burst pipe can flood basements, damage walls, and destroy flooring.
2️⃣ Hidden Leaks That Increase Water Bills
• Even if the pipe doesn’t burst immediately, it may develop small cracks or leaks.
• You might not notice these leaks right away, leading to high water bills.
• Over time, this can cause mold, mildew, and structural damage.
3️⃣ Foundation & Structural Damage
• Leaking water can seep into your home’s foundation and cause cracks.
• This can lead to costly structural repairs.
• Undetected water damage can weaken floors, ceilings, and walls.
Signs Your Outdoor Faucet or Pipes May Have Frozen
If you accidentally left your hose connected and suspect freezing damage, look out for these warning signs:
✅ No water flow from the outdoor spigot – Indicates a possible freeze blockage.
✅ Unusual noises from pipes – Gurgling or banging sounds may mean ice is restricting water flow.
✅ Visible frost or ice on pipes – A sign that water inside has started to freeze.
✅ Water leaks or puddles near the spigot – Could indicate a cracked or burst pipe.
✅ Low water pressure inside the house – May signal a pipe is frozen or damaged.
If you notice any of these signs, act fast before more damage occurs. Premier Plumbing Wichita is available 24/7 for emergency plumbing repairs at 📞 316-778-9722!
How to Prevent Winter Plumbing Disasters
The best way to avoid costly plumbing repairs is prevention. Here are steps to protect your outdoor water hydrants and pipes from freezing this winter:
1️⃣ Disconnect Garden Hoses Before Freezing Temperatures Hit • Always remove hoses from outdoor faucets before winter arrives.
• Drain any remaining water from the hose before storing it indoors.
2️⃣ Shut Off Outdoor Water Supply & Drain Faucets
• Locate your outdoor water shut-off valve (usually in the basement or crawl space).
• Turn it off and open outdoor faucets to drain excess water.
• If your spigot is not frost-proof, consider installing a faucet cover for insulation.
3️⃣ Insulate Outdoor Faucets & Pipes
• Use faucet covers or pipe insulation to keep the cold out.
• Insulate any exposed pipes in your basement, garage, or crawl space.
• Heat tape can help prevent freezing in especially cold areas.
Open up your Cabinets to Allow Heat to Flow In and keep your pipes above Freezing Temps .
4️⃣ Keep Your Home Warm
• Maintain indoor temperatures above 55°F (even when away).
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze or Burst
If you suspect a frozen pipe, act quickly to minimize damage:
1️⃣ Turn Off the Water Supply – Locate the main shut-off valve and turn it off.
2️⃣ Open Faucets – Allow any trapped water to escape.
3️⃣ Thaw Pipes Safely – Use a hairdryer or space heater (NEVER an open flame).
4️⃣ Check for Leaks – If a pipe bursts, shut off the water immediately.
5️⃣ Call a Professional Plumber – Contact Premier Plumbing Wichita for immediate help.
💥 Emergency? Call Now: 316-778-9722!
Why Choose Premier Plumbing Wichita for Plumbing Repairs?
At Premier Plumbing Wichita, we specialize in preventing and repairing frozen or burst pipes. With years of experience, we provide fast, affordable, and high-quality service in Wichita, Kansas, and surrounding areas.
✅ 24/7 Emergency Service – We’re available anytime you need us.
✅ Same-Day Repairs – Quick, reliable fixes to prevent further damage.
✅ Licensed & Insured Plumbers – Experienced professionals you can trust.
✅ Upfront Pricing – No Surprises – Transparent costs before any work begins.
✅ Locally Owned & Trusted – Proudly serving Wichita and nearby communities.
📞 Contact Premier Plumbing Wichita Today!
💦 Don’t wait for a plumbing disaster to strike! Take action now to protect your home from costly repairs. Whether you need frozen pipe repair, water heater replacement, or emergency plumbing service, we’ve got you covered!
📞 Call Us Today: 316-778-9722
💻 Book Online: www.PremierPlumbingWichita.com
📍 Serving Wichita, KS & Surrounding Areas
Stay warm and keep your plumbing safe this winter! 🚿🔧