What to Do When a Pipe Bursts in a Kansas Cold Snap

Shut off the main

Go straight to the main shut-off and close it. In most Topeka basements it's on the front wall where the line enters. A lever valve is closed when the handle crosses the pipe; a round handle closes clockwise.

Drain the lines

Open the lowest tap in the house and a tap upstairs. This empties the pipes and takes pressure off the break so less water escapes.

Protect electrics and belongings

Keep away from water near outlets or the panel. Move rugs, boxes and electronics out of the way and start mopping up. Photos of the damage before cleanup help with any insurance claim.

Find the other frozen spots

If one pipe froze, others nearby may have too. Check pipes along outside walls, in the crawl space and in the garage. Warm frozen sections gently with a hair dryer and never with an open flame.

Turn the heat up

Raise the thermostat and open cabinet doors under sinks on outside walls so warm air reaches the pipes. Keep the garage door shut.

Get the repair done

Split pipe has to be cut out and replaced, and the plumber can also look at why it froze. See frozen pipe repair.

Call your insurer early

If water has soaked walls, floors or ceilings, contact your insurance company soon after the water is off. Many policies want prompt notice, and they may send a drying company. Keep receipts for anything you buy to stop the damage, such as fans, a dehumidifier or a wet vacuum.

More plumbing guides

• Sump Pump Check Before Topeka's Storm Season
• Old Galvanized Pipes in Topeka Homes: Signs and Choices
• Basement Floor Drain Backing Up? What It Means
• Reading Your Water Heater Label: Age, Size and Fuel
• Hiring a Plumber in Topeka: Questions to Ask
• Reading Your Water Meter to Find Hidden Leaks