Winterproofing
When cold approaches, it’s important to prepare your home against the cold. Winterproof your home to avoid any issues with your water supply when the temperature drops below zero.
People often have issues with frozen pipes when the temperature drops below zero, which can then cause cracks when they thaw and result in expensive repairs and a disrupted water supply.
There are simple ways to ensure your home is prepared for freezing weather.
Follow these tips to winterproof your home to avoid any issues with your water supply when the temperature drops.
Prepare your home in advance
Insulate exposed pipes and water tanks
Lagging material helps prevent freezing and heat loss.
Service your boiler
An efficient boiler will keep your home warm and also help to reduce your energy use.
Locate your stop valve
Know how to turn off water quickly in an emergency.
Fix dripping taps
Even small leaks can freeze and block pipes.
Minimise all draughts
Cold air coming from outside can cause pipes to freeze inside your home.
Keep your home warm
Keep heating on for longer periods at lower settings, even while away to circulate warm air
Keep your home warm – leave your heating on at lower levels whilst away to keep warm air circulating.
Frozen or burst pipes
Once the temperature drops
People often have issues with frozen pipes when the temperature drops below zero, which can then cause cracks when they thaw and result in expensive repairs and a disrupted water supply.
Waiting until the temperature drops mean that your pipes may already be frozen.
Help to keep your winter free of extra stress by getting your home ready for the cold weather.
Circulate warm air to unheated areas
Opening doors to unheated areas of your home occasionally to allow warm air to circulate can prevent pipes and tanks from freezing in the cold weather.
Running your taps will not prevent pipes from freezing
This is especially important as this can cause frozen drains and puts undue pressure on supplies across the network.
Arrange a supply of fresh drinking water
It's a good idea to have a separate supply of fresh drinking water available on your premises in case a water pipe freezes or bursts in cold temperatures.