Plumbers’ Winter Warning to Avoid Costly Bills from Burst Water Pipes and Flooding this Christmas

WaterSafe, the UK’s national accreditation body for approved plumbers, is urging homeowners to take simple steps on how to prevent burst pipes in winter and avoid costly damage or flooding that could ruin their festive season.

The national accreditation body, which is backed by water companies,is supporting the Met Office’s Get Ready for Winter Campaign. The campaign includes advice on keeping homes warm and safe during the festive season and beyond.

Derrick Ryall, Executive Head of Public Weather Services at the Met Office, said: “People in the UK are resilient and severe winter weather is something we’re all used to, so we sometimes underestimate its impact on our everyday lives.

“Our research shows that many people are too relaxed, however, and are confused about what they need to do to prepare. This is why we have created the comprehensive winter checklist, so households can ensure they are fully prepared this winter.”

As temperatures drop below zero degrees, frozen and burst water pipes can cause flooding, damage and leave homes without water. New figures from the Association of British Insurers say claims to repair a burst water pipe can reach £7,500.

Despite this, new Met Office research shows that 75% of people it surveyed are unsure if their pipes are insulated and protected against freezing.

WaterSafe is advising homeowners to check water pipes in draughty areas such as attics and garages and outside taps. If they aren’t wrapped in lagging (a foam material designed to prevent freezing) it’s time to act. Insulating pipes not only protects them from winter weather but keeps the heat in, saving money too.

WaterSafe is also encouraging homeowners to fix leaky taps before temperatures drop, as even a trickle can result in a frozen tap. Dealing with leaks as soon as you discover them is also an important water-saving measure as every drop counts. Fixing a dripping tap could save 5,500 litres of water a year, not to mention £18 off water bills.

Here are our tips on how to prevent burst pipes in winter:

• Find and test your stop tap - make sure you know where it is (usually under the kitchen sink) and that it turns easily. Being able to turn off your water quickly is the first step in preventing damage if a pipe freezes or bursts.

• Insulate exposed pipes and water tanks – especially in colder areas like lofts, garages, basements and outside spaces. Use lagging or foam pipe insulation to keep the warmth in and the frost out. Don’t forget outside taps – you can buy insulated tap covers from most DIY stores.

• Keep your home warm – even when you’re away. Set your thermostat to at least 14°C to prevent frozen pipes in winter. Open loft hatches and cupboard doors where pipes run, so warmer air can circulate.

• Fix dripping taps and leaking toilets before temperatures drop. Even a slow drip can freeze, causing blockages and back-ups. Repairing leaks also saves water and reduces your bills.

• Service your central heating and boiler regularly to ensure your system runs efficiently and prevents cold spots that can lead to frozen pipes.

• Turn off your water supply if you’re away for an extended period. Once off, you can drain the system by turning on the taps until the water stops flowing.

• Know the signs of a frozen pipe. Little or no water from taps, strange noises, or damp patches on walls or ceilings could indicate trouble.

• Keep the contact details of a WaterSafe-approved plumber handy in case of an emergency – they’re fully qualified and insured to help if you need repairs or advice.

Julie Spinks, director of WaterSafe said: “Knowing where your stop tap is, so you can turn off the water quickly if a pipe freezes or bursts, is essential.

“However, ‘prevention is better than cure’ so following our tips now will help homeowners enjoy peace of mind and a safe festive period during colder weather. If you’re not confident about insulating water pipes or fixing dripping taps yourself, a WaterSafe recognised plumber can help and offer advice.

Visit  watersafe.org.uk/winter for further advice on getting homes winter ready.

Find out more about the wider ‘Get Ready for Winter’ campaign, which is run by the Met Office on behalf of the Cabinet Office, here: metoffice.gov.uk/barometer/advice.