Serving Kansas City’s Metro, Snow or Shine
The winter storm that began Friday has continued through Saturday and into Sunday, bringing freezing rain, ice, and heavy snowfall across the Kansas City metro. After over 48 hours of extreme cold, many homeowners are seeing the impact: furnaces struggling to keep up the heat, pipes exposed to freezing temperatures, slow drains, and water heaters under stress.
This Sunday guide focuses on what to check after the first full days of the winter storm, how to prevent further damage, and when to call Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for professional help.
Furnace & HVAC: Check After 48 Hours of Continuous Use
Your furnace has been working non-stop to maintain warmth. Systems running continuously for days can develop issues if not monitored carefully.
Post-Winter Storm Furnace Checklist
- Inspect Exhaust and Intake Vents: Snow and ice may still block flues or PVC exhaust pipes—clear carefully to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
- Check Filters: Continuous operation can clog filters quickly. Replace if needed to prevent overheating and reduced airflow.
- Verify Thermostat Function: Ensure your thermostat is still accurate and set to a safe, consistent temperature. Avoid cranking the heat too high.
- Listen for Unusual Noises: Clicking, short cycling, or loud humming can signal a failing component.
If heat isn’t restored or the system is malfunctioning, call Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today!
Prevent Frozen or Burst Pipes During Freezing Temperatures
You’re home’s pipes are most vulnerable near exterior walls, garages, or crawl spaces—especially after winter snowstorms or freezing rain. After a full day or more of freezing temperatures, these pipes are at the highest risk of freezing or even bursting; protecting these areas is key to preventing costly damage. Schedule a consultation with Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today if you suspect frozen pipe damage!
Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing’s Home Safety Tips
- Allow your faucets to drip: Keep both hot and cold faucets running slightly to maintain flow.
- Keep cabinet doors ajar: Let warm air circulate around sink pipes.
- Seal and insulate drafty areas: Use towels or foam insulation to protect exposed pipes.
- Check your water heater: Water heaters in garages or near exterior walls may need extra insulation to prevent freezing.
- Locate and Identify your Main Water Shut-Off: Be ready to act quickly if a pipe bursts.
If a Pipe in Your Home Freezes:
- Avoid open flames.
- Use a hair dryer, heat tape, or small monitored space heater to thaw pipes safely if possible.
- Call or schedule service with Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing ASAP for quick, efficient repair!
General Home Safety Tips After the First 48 Hours
As a local heating and plumbing business, Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing wants to help you stay safe after the first 48 hours of a winter storm. Even once the snow slows down, freezing temperatures and icy conditions can still put your home and family at risk. Here are some essential tips to keep your home safe and comfortable until the weather fully clears.
- Keep Extra Water on Hand: Ensure you have enough for drinking, washing hands, and food prep in case water supply is interrupted.
- Maintain Warmth Safely: Continue using blankets, layered clothing, and safe indoor heaters. Avoid grills, kerosene tanks, or open flames—these are the #1 cause of winter fires during storms.
- Check CO & Fire Alarms: Batteries may drain faster in cold conditions—test detectors and replace batteries if needed.
- Avoid Overloading Electrical Circuits: Space heaters should be monitored at all times.
- Keep Flashlights & Emergency Supplies: Keep flashlights, extra blankets, batteries, and a generator (if available) ready.
When to Call Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
After the 48 hours of snow—especially during icy conditions—it’s common for heating or plumbing systems to need professional maintenance or a checkup. If you notice:
- Furnace failure or inadequate heat
- Frozen, leaking, or burst pipes
- Water heater problems
- Slow or backed-up drains
Call Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today!
Winter Storm HVAC & Plumbing FAQs
Q: My furnace has been running non-stop—what should I do?
A: Inspect vents, filters, and the thermostat. Listen for unusual noises, and call Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing if your heat isn’t doing its job.
Q: How can I protect my pipes after the first storm day?
A: Keep faucets dripping, open cabinet doors, insulate exposed pipes, and check water heaters in garages or near exterior walls. Learn more preventative maintenance tips from Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.
Q: Is it safe to use outdoor grills or kerosene tanks indoors?
A: No. These are the leading cause of winter fires during storms. Use only indoor-safe heating methods.
Q: What should I do if a pipe freezes or bursts?
A: Shut off the main water supply, gently thaw frozen pipes and call Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.
Q: How much extra water should I keep available during emergencies?
A: 1 gallon per person per day—enough for drinking, hand washing, and basic food prep in case water lines freeze.
