This Week’s Wichita Weather Forecast and How Freezing Temps Can Cause Major Plumbing and Furnace Issues
As freezing temperatures settle over Wichita, Kansas this week, homeowners need to be prepared for both the weather and potential problems with their plumbing and heating systems. Sudden drops in temperature can lead to frozen pipes, furnace breakdowns, and other costly emergencies. Staying informed about the weather forecast and knowing how to prevent these issues can save you money and stress.
Wichita’s Weather Forecast: February 19 – February 25, 2025
- Wednesday, February 19: Mainly cloudy and dangerously cold, High: 8°F, Low: -8°F
- Thursday, February 20: Cloudy with extreme cold, High: 13°F, Low: 0°F
- Friday, February 21: Cold with sunshine, High: 22°F, Low: 13°F
- Saturday, February 22: Warmer with sun, High: 39°F, Low: 27°F
- Sunday, February 23: Milder and sunny, High: 54°F, Low: 35°F
- Monday, February 24: Mostly sunny and mild, High: 65°F, Low: 37°F
- Tuesday, February 25: Sunny, High: 64°F, Low: 40°F
While temperatures are expected to improve by the weekend, the extreme cold early in the week puts homes in Wichita at risk. If temperatures fall below freezing, water in pipes can freeze, causing expansion and, in some cases, burst pipes. Likewise, furnaces must work harder in such conditions, increasing the risk of malfunctions or breakdowns.
Common Plumbing and Furnace Problems During Cold Weather
Frozen Pipes: When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands and can cause pipes to crack or burst. This often happens in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and garages.
Furnace Failures: Overworked heating systems can break down when temperatures dip, especially if they have not been serviced recently. A furnace that is not producing heat could indicate a frozen condensate line, clogged filter, or ignition problem.
Emergency Repairs: When pipes burst or a furnace fails, homeowners often need emergency plumbing services or urgent furnace repair, which can be costly and stressful during severe weather conditions.
How Homeowners Can Prepare for Freezing Weather
- Insulate Exposed Pipes Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation sleeves or heat tape. Focus on pipes in crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls to prevent freezing.
- Let Faucets Drip Allow a small trickle of water from faucets overnight during extreme cold. Running water can prevent pipes from freezing.
- Keep Your Home Warm Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even when away. Consistent indoor temperatures reduce the risk of frozen pipes and help keep your furnace running efficiently.
- Open Cabinet Doors Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, especially if pipes are located near exterior walls.
- Seal Air Leaks Inspect your home for drafts and seal any gaps around doors, windows, and entry points for pipes. Cold air infiltration can cause indoor temperatures to drop and expose pipes to freezing conditions.
- Schedule Furnace Maintenance Ensure your furnace is in good condition by scheduling a professional inspection. Replace filters regularly and check for any signs of issues like strange noises or uneven heating.
- Disconnect Outdoor Hoses Remove garden hoses and shut off outdoor water valves. Drain any remaining water from outdoor faucets to prevent freezing and bursting.
What to Do If You Experience Plumbing or Furnace Problems
Frozen Pipes: Turn off your main water supply and call an emergency plumber in Wichita immediately. Attempting to thaw pipes yourself can cause additional damage.
Furnace Not Working: Check your thermostat, change the filter, and ensure your furnace switch is on. If it still doesn’t work, contact an emergency furnace repair service in Wichita.
For fast, reliable service, contact PD Plumbing Heating and Cooling at pdplumbin.com for emergency plumbing or furnace repairs. Our experienced team is ready to help during Wichita’s coldest days.
Additional Cold Weather Resources
- What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze – Southern Living
- Winter Plumbing Tips – Meetze Plumbing
- Protecting Your Home in Cold Weather – Real Simple
By staying prepared and knowing who to call, Wichita homeowners can protect their homes and avoid costly plumbing or heating emergencies this winter. Stay warm and stay safe!
For more information on our services, visit pdplumbin.com.