Avoid Frozen Pipes Says Consumer Group

A government body has issued advice for the public to avoid frozen pipes this winter.

According to a pre-winter-warning from the Consumer Council, cold weather can wreak havoc on water pipes but by following a few simple steps, you can minimise risk to your home, heating and water supply when the weather takes a turn for the worse.

"As water expands when it gets colder it can put enough pressure on household pipes to burst them at the seams", the report says, "Sometimes it is only as the weather warms up that the damage becomes clear".

The council's top tips for preventing frozen pipes include: making sure you know where your inside stop valve is and check that it is working - it's usually under the kitchen sink; ensuring pipes in cold draughty areas are insulated; checking the insulation in your loft is thick enough, and that it covers over and around the water pipes where possible; and not putting insulation underneath the water tank.

Dame Yve Buckland, Chair of the Consumer Council for Water, said: "Last winter was hard for us all but for many it was made much worse by having to deal with frozen and burst water pipes.

"Prevention is certainly better than cure and much easier on the pocket. So time invested now following our simple advice could save you a whole load of hassle."

The homeowner is usually responsible for repairing any leaks on the supply pipe running to their property under their garden and for the plumbing inside the house. However, the Consumer Council advised the public to check your building insurance policy to see if it includes damage to pipes and drains.

"If you suspect a leak on your supply pipe contact your water company. Most water companies will offer to help find the leak, and can give advice or assistance to repair it."

Household customers who have a water meter may be eligible for a reduction in their water bill so that they do not pay for water lost through leakage. However, the leak must be underground, and be repaired quickly.

This information and other useful advice including how to thaw out frozen pipes and how to contact your water company in an emergency, can be found on the website www.direct.gov.uk/getreadyforwinter.

(DW)