How to avoid a burst pipe

We have all experienced the constant heavy rainfall and flooding in the area recently, but please remember that flooding can also be caused by burst pipes internally.

If you are planning a New Year break it could easily coincide with a severe cold spell, and with energy prices at their record levels it will be tempting to save money and switch off the heating while the property is empty.  But that might risk arriving back to find a flooded house or flat.  Advice from the Heating Helpline offers some tips on how to reach a compromise between keeping bills down and avoiding a burst pipe.

• Don’t be tempted to turn off your heating altogether – cold weather can cause havoc on water pipes, so it’s best to keep your heating on low – around 10 degrees C
• Make sure all water pipes in the loft are insulated with preformed insulation
• Replace washers on dripping taps because if the taps freeze the pipe will become blocked
• If you’re leaving keys with a friend or neighbour make sure they know where your inside stop tap is and check that it is working.  They will need to get to it quickly if a pipe has burst.
• Leave the loft door open (if applicable) to let the heat from downstairs circulate
• Insulate outside taps or turn them off at the stop tap or drain them before you go away
• Fix any dripping taps or overflows.  A build-up of ice can cause a blockage
• If you haven’t already got one, consider having a programmable thermostat fitted; these give you complete control over your heating and usually have a holiday setting.

The Heating Helpline provides consumers with free, impartial advice on every aspect of home heating.  For more information contact them on 0800 8108303 or visit their website www.heatinghelpline.org.uk.