How can you help prevent the problem of frozen pipes?
To prevent problems, do what you can to protect the pipes inside and outside your house.
- Where possible ensure any outside pipes are insulated and if not insulated at least covered.
- For houses with their storage tanks in the attic, you should ensure that the area under the roof tank can get heat from underneath, so remove any insulation which prevents that. It may be useful to open the trap door to the attic to allow heat up there (only if safe to do so)
- It can also be useful to allow heat to circulate to under-sink pipes where they run along an outside wall by leaving a cupboard door open (only if safe to do so)
Useful advice if you have frozen pipes
Householders experiencing problems with frozen pipes are advised to contact their plumber.
If you have no water and you have confirmed with the Council that there is no problem with the mains supply in your area, it is likely that you have frozen pipes on your property or in your home.
It is critical to know where your stopcock is located in your property. If a leak becomes apparent then shut off the stopcock or alternative isolating valve that may be in your house to minimise potential damage.
If there is no water from the cold tap in your kitchen, the chances are that the stopcock or the line from there to the house is frozen. It may help to pour warm water over the stopcock - do not use boiling water for this purpose or any naked flame. Remember, however, that if water at any temperature builds up in the stopcock chamber it will almost certainly freeze within minutes: so use as little water as possible. If the freezing has occurred in the line between the stopcock and the house, the warm water is unlikely to solve the problem.
If you can identify the pipe that is frozen and it is above ground you may carry out the following to try to thaw it out:
- You may try to gently heat the pipe where you suspect the freeze has occurred. Alternatively, you could wrap a towel around the pipe securing it with duct tape and pour hot water over the towel.
- Once the obstruction is cleared and the water is flowing again, turn off all taps and check for leaks in the area where the obstruction occurred. Any leaks you find should be repaired immediately. If you cannot repair them yourself, call a qualified plumber.
Remember, if you have a burst pipe or frozen supply, to be careful about the use of heating systems, washing machines and other water-dependent appliances and facilities. If you have a problem or concern, contact a qualified plumber for advice.
