Stay ahead of the freeze: Thames Water’s top tips to keep warm and winter proof this season
A customer fixes a leaking tap in their home
- Thames Water shares helpful tips on how customers can protect their homes in freezing temperatures this winter
- Pipes can be at risk of leaks or bursts after cold snaps
- Burst pipes on private property are homeowners' responsibility and can cost hundreds of pounds to fix
Thames Water is helping its customers prepare for winter by sharing practical tips to help them protect their homes when temperatures drop and more rain can fall. The handy advice can help customers avoid broken boilers, leaks and bursts.
One easy tip to follow is insulating your pipes with foam, known as “lagging”, which can help protect them when temperatures fall. During the winter months the cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and expand which causes cracks and splits. As this ice thaws, water will find the cracks to escape. The average cost to repair a leaking pipe in the United Kingdom is £330(1).
Sarah Holland, Operations Service and Control Centre Director at Thames Water, said: “Our purpose is to deliver life's essential service, so our customers, communities and the environment can thrive. When temperatures drop there are a lot of small things we can all do to help keep our homes warm and protect them from damage. The last thing anybody wants for Christmas is a burst water pipe in their home, and our easy and practical, winter readiness tips can make a big difference over the winter.”
The best ways to prepare for winter:
- Insulate your pipes. It usually costs around £1m a metre(2) to insulate typical household’s internal pipework.
- Remember to insulate outdoor and garden pipes too.
- Know where your stop tap is. This can limit property damage if a pipe bursts or leaks.
- Bleed radiators. Bleeding a radiator involves releasing trapped air from the system, which allows hot water to flow freely and ensures optimal performance. Trapped air makes your radiators less efficient and can increase heating costs.
- Fix leaks. If you’re on a meter, fixing dripping taps and leaky loos can save money on your water bill.
- Clear your drains and gutters.
- Have the number of a qualified emergency plumber to hand in case of emergencies.
- Check your home insurance covers leaking or burst pipes.
More information on how to deal with frozen and burst pipes in your home can be viewed here.
1 Source: Checkatrade.com