North-west England’s water provider, United Utilities, is advising households to remain vigilant during these temperature changes and to check for leaks once prolonged cold weather ends.
Pipes exposed to low temperatures for extended periods are most at risk, and early checks can help prevent extensive damage and costly repair work.
How to protect your pipes before problems start
Proper insulation is one of the most effective ways to reduce the likelihood of frozen or burst pipes. We recommend fitting lagging to exposed pipework, particularly in colder or less insulated areas such as garages, cellars, lofts, and external walls.
Pipework in loft spaces is especially vulnerable and may benefit from additional insulation, sometimes referred to as a “duvet”, to help keep temperatures stable and reduce the risk of damage when pipes thaw.
Practical preparation that could save time and money
It’s important to know how to turn off your water supply quickly. The stop tap is commonly found under the kitchen sink or stairs, but it may also be located in cupboards, garages, utility rooms, cellars, or downstairs bathrooms.
If a pipe bursts, turning the stop tap clockwise will stop the water supply.
Homeowners should also check their insurance policies to see whether leaks or burst pipes are covered. Keeping contact details for a qualified plumber can be useful in an emergency, and approved professionals can be found via the Watersafe website.
Regularly checking for small leaks or signs of damp can help prevent minor issues developing into major problems.
People who need additional help can register for free support through the United Utilities Priority Services Register.
Immediate steps to take after a burst pipe
If a pipe does burst, turn off the stop tap, switch off your heating system, and open all taps to drain water from the system as quickly as possible.
If water has reached electrical fittings, turn off the electricity supply at the mains and soak up any standing water using towels or cloths.
More advice on dealing with frozen pipes can be found here.
