How to stop pipes freezing this winter
Frozen and burst pipes are one of the most expensive winter call-outs. A few cheap steps prevent most of them.
Lag exposed pipes
Pipe insulation is cheap. Prioritise lofts, garages, outbuildings, and pipes on outside walls.
Keep a little heat on
In very cold spells keep the heating on low even when you're away. Empty properties between tenancies are most at risk.
If a pipe freezes
Turn off the stopcock, open the tap it feeds, and warm the pipe gently with a hairdryer or hot-water bottle, working from the tap end. Never use a naked flame.
If a pipe bursts
Turn off the stopcock, switch off electrics near the water if safe, drain the system by opening cold taps, and call for help.