Have you got frozen pipes?
Posted: 14 December 2022
Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and then burst causing damage to your home an possessions.
Have you got a frozen pipe?
If you are experiencing any of these issues you may have a frozen pipe:
- No water from your taps or just a trickle.
- Your central heating makes gurgling sounds when it’s on.
- Your sink is clogged and your toilet is flushing slowly.
Find the frozen pipe
You need to find out which pipe is frozen.
If you have a modern condensing boiler, it could be your condensate pipe. This will be a plastic pipe which comes out of your boiler and goes outside. Find where it goes to see if it’s frosted over.
Any outdoor pipes or pipes in cold garages, lofts or on external walls can be at risk during freezing weather.
You'll need to check them all.
Thaw the pipe
Once you’ve found the frozen pipe, you’ll need to thaw it out.
If the worst happens and a pipe freezes, then follow these simple steps:
- Turn off the water supply coming in to your home at the stop tap.
- Open taps to allow the water to escape as it thaws.
- Slowly thaw the pipe with hot water bottles or a hairdryer on a warm setting. (Never use a naked flame or blowtorch to thaw the pipe.)
If a pipe bursts in your home, don’t panic, follow these simple steps:
- Turn off the water supply coming in to your property at the stop tap and switch off your boiler.
- If water has leaked near your electrics switch them off at the mains.
- Open all your taps to drain the system quickly.
- Soak up escaping water with towels.
Call a WaterSafe recognised plumber who is qualified to work with the drinking water in your home.
How to prevent pipes freezing
Find out how to prepare your home for the cold weather and claim free lagging.
Order free lagging
Claim your free lagging, outdoor-tap kit and other water-saving freebies when you join Get Water Fit
Got a problem with water?
Find out what to do if you have a problem with your water or if you want to report a leak.
Posted 14 December 2022