Frost
Wise up this winter
During colder months you need to take extra precautions to protect your home from potential plumbing emergencies.
If you haven’t already, you should:
- fix any dripping taps or overflows
- check your internal stop tap is working
- ensure pipes in cold and draughty areas are insulated
- keep pipe lagging dry inside and use waterproof insulation outside
- insulate outside taps or turn them off at the stop tap
- don’t put insulation underneath storage tanks in the attic.
- make sure central heating is regularly serviced
- consider leaving your heating on low if you go away.
Lagging pipes
Bursts often occur due to water expanding as it freezes, which puts a large amount of pressure on whatever material is containing it.
This sudden pressure build-up can cause pipes to spilt, leak and become a costly hazard at home or the workplace.
Using lagging, particularly in draughty areas such as attics, outbuildings or garages, will help prevent against pipes bursting when it gets cold.
You can buy lagging, a foam material made to wrap around pipes, from most hardware shops and large DIY stores such as B&Q, Wickes or Homebase.
Tips for lagging your pipes
- a 15mm pipe requires 32mm of lagging
- larger pipes need between 19mm and 25mm of lagging
- ensure all joints and bends are covered
- replace old style felt lagging.
Remember, insulation will only delay freezing for about eight hours in exposed areas.
Know your plumber
We recommend you keep contact details of your plumber to hand in case you have a plumbing emergency.
For a list of approved plumbers visit the Water Industry Approved Plumber Scheme.
This information is for advice only. Always consult an approved plumber if you are unsure about how to protect your home from cold weather.