Frozen pipes are a common problem in winter and if left unchecked, they can burst and lead to costly water damage. Preventing frozen pipes is cheaper and easier than dealing with repairs and luckily there are several steps you can take.
In this article, we’ll break down expert tips to prevent frozen pipes and keep your plumbing safe all winter long.
We’ll run through:
- Insulating pipes and tanks
- Keeping heating on at a low level
- Opening loft hatches and cupboard doors
- Sealing draughts and gaps
- Running Taps
- Draining outdoor pipes and hoses
- What to do if your pipes freeze
- How to turn off your water supply
Insulate Pipes and Tanks
A key step of preventing frozen pipes is insulating water tanks and the pipes themselves.
Use pipe lagging to cover any exposed pipes especially in lofts, garages, and along external walls. You can buy pipe lagging from many online retailers like Screwfix. Also, make sure to insulate water tanks using an insulation jacket in unheated or poorly heated areas to keep the water temperature stable.
Keep Heating On At a Low Level
Keeping your heating on constantly and at a low level is a really effective way to avoid frozen pipes.
Set your thermostat to a consistent minimum temperature of 13 degrees, even when you’re away from home. This helps keep pipes above freezing temperatures.
Open Loft Hatches and Cupboard Doors
Improving airflow by opening loft hatches and cupboards can make a big difference in preventing frozen pipes.
By keeping loft hatches and cupboard doors open, you allow warm air from your home to circulate into colder spaces, helping to protect any hidden pipework from freezing.
Seal Draughts and Gaps
Sealing draughts and gaps around pipework is a priority when trying to prevent frozen pipes.
Cold air can quickly freeze exposed pipes, especially where they pass through walls or floors. You can use expanding foam to seal the gaps around your pipework.
Sealing any draughts or gaps around pipework helps keep these areas warmer, reducing the risk of freezing and potential bursts.
Run Taps Occasionally
Running your taps seems simple but it can make a huge difference in stopping pipes from freezing.
This is because running water is less likely to freeze. In very cold spells, let taps drip slightly to relieve pressure.
Drain Outdoor Pipes and Hoses
Before temperatures drop, disconnect garden hoses and turn off outdoor taps. Make sure to fully drain any remaining water from the pipes to prevent it from freezing and causing damage.
This step is easy to overlook as the seasons change quickly, but it’s a simple and crucial way to protect your pipes through the winter.
Use Smart Tech and Timers
Investing in smart tech and timers is a simple yet effective way to prevent frozen pipes.
Smart thermostats and frost protection devices can automatically maintain a safe minimum temperature in your home, even when you’re away, removing the need for constant manual checks.
While there’s an initial cost, these devices are well worth the investment. By preventing burst pipes and water damage, they can save you significant money and stress in the long run.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If either your indoor or outdoor pipes do freeze don’t panic there are three simple steps you can take. If you act fast, you can prevent the pipes from bursting and causing water damage.
- Turn off the water supply to prevent damage or flooding.
- Gently thaw the pipes using a hot water bottle, warm towels, or a hairdryer (never use a naked flame).
- Contact a professional heating engineer if you can’t safely thaw the pipe or if it’s already burst.
A Pipe Has Burst: Do you Know How to Turn Off the Water?
Knowing how to quickly shut off your water supply can make all the difference if a pipe bursts.
How to turn off your water supply:
- Find the stopcock
The main stopcock is usually located under the kitchen sink, but it can also be found in a utility room, cupboard, or basement. In flats, it may be in a shared corridor or service cupboard.
- Turn the valve clockwise
Use your hand to slowly turn the stopcock clockwise until it stops. This will turn off the mains water supply. If it’s stiff, you can use a cloth for better grip but avoid forcing it.
- Check the water is off
Turn on a cold tap (preferably in the kitchen). If no water flows, the supply is successfully turned off.
You should locate your stopcock before an emergency to check that it works properly. Fast action can significantly limit damage and repair costs. If your stopcock doesn’t work, get it repaired immediately.
Get Winter Ready and Protect Your Home
Taking a few simple precautions to prevent your pipes freezing now can save you from the stress and expense of burst pipes later. By insulating your pipes, maintaining a steady temperature, improving airflow, and knowing how to shut off your water supply in an emergency, you can protect your home throughout the winter months.
If you do experience frozen or burst pipes or simply want expert help to winter proof your plumbing our team at Premium Heating Plumbing & Cooling are here to help.