Prevent your pipes from freezing in cold weather

Frozen pipes can burst in cold weather, leaving you to source a reputable plumber, bringing stress and potentially costly repair bills in the run up to the festive season.

Having Home Emergency Cover in place before a problem occurs is vital, so you know you’ll be covered in the event of an emergency and ensure that you have access to fully qualified tradespeople, should you need to claim.

We’ve put together some tips for helping to avoid your plumbing from freezing below.

How to prevent your pipes freezing

During cold weather conditions, it’s worth ensuring that your water pipes are properly insulated, especially if they’re exposed.

You can get insulating – or lagging material – from most DIY stores to help protect your water tanks and plumbing, paying attention to pipes in unheated areas like loft spaces and garages. Water.org.uk recommends ensuring that there are no gaps in your lagging at bends, valves and fittings.

Make sure any dripping taps are fixed; even a small trickle could result in a frozen pipe and make sure you know where your internal stopcock is so you can turn it off in the event of your plumbing freezing or bursting.

If you’re staying with your family over the festive period, leave your thermostat set on low to help prevent your pipes from freezing or turn off your water supply if you’re able to and if you can, get a neighbour or friend to check your property regularly.

What to do if your water pipes freeze

• Turn your water supply off at the stopcock

• Make sure the pipe hasn’t burst

• Slowly thaw the pipe with hot water bottles or a towel soaked in hot water

You can read our article, ‘How To Thaw A Frozen Condensate Pipe' for more detailed instructions.

What to do if a pipe bursts

• Turn your water supply off at the stopcock

• Soak up escaping water with thick towels

• Call a qualified tradesperson

If you have a frozen or burst pipe outside the bounds of your property, your local water company will be able to help.

By taking out Plumbing and Drainage Cover with Home Emergency Assist, you can make sure you’re not caught out by costly repair bills in the event of a plumbing or drainage emergency or left trying to locate an emergency plumber.

Don’t let a plumbing mishap disrupt your day! Check out our plumbing and drainage cover, or take out a Complete home emergency plan for total peace of mind. Get a quick, free quote online to keep your water running. Or explore our full range of plans, including boiler and heating, and appliance cover.