Winter in the UK can bring freezing temperatures that put your home’s plumbing system at risk. Frozen pipes are not only inconvenient for homeowners, but they can also lead to costly damage, water leaks, and even burst pipes. If you are a homeowner or commercial property owner, taking preventative measures early on can save you a huge amount of time and money. Today we’ll discover how to prevent frozen pipes, what causes them, and when to call a plumber in Northwich if your pipes start to freeze.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Frozen pipes occur when water inside the pipes reaches 0°C and starts to solidify. As water freezes, it expands, which puts pressure on the pipe walls. This pressure can eventually cause cracks, leading to burst pipes in winter once the ice starts to thaw. Pipes most at risk include those in unheated areas of your property, such as lofts, garages, basements, and the external walls. Older properties may be more likely to experience frozen pipes in the UK due to a lack of modern insulation.
Signs of Frozen Pipes
Recognising the warning signs of frozen pipes early on can help you to react quickly and take the correct action before your pipes burst. Look out for the following signs of frozen pipes and call a plumber in Northwich if you do have any concerns about your plumbing system:
- Little or no water flow from taps
- An unusual smell is coming from the drains
- Frost on exposed pipes
- Strange noises from your plumbing system, such as banging or gurgling
How to Stop Pipes from Freezing
To avoid issues with your pipes freezing or burst pipes in winter, you want to ensure that you prepare appropriately ahead of the winter months and review your current insulation setup where needed. Here are some of the key steps to take to stop pipes from freezing and issues with your plumbing during the winter months.
Install Pipe Lagging Insulation
One of the easiest and most effective methods to prevent frozen pipes is installing pipe lagging insulation. This foam or fibreglass covering wraps around your pipes, helping to keep them warmer and reducing heat loss. Pipe lagging insulation is especially important for pipes in your loft, outdoor taps or exposed pipes, and pipes in sheds and garages. It’s an affordable solution that Northwich plumbers can support you with, which can significantly reduce the risk of freezing.
Keep Your Heating On
Even if you’re away from home on holiday in the winter months, it’s important to keep your heating on at a low, consistent temperature throughout the colder winter season. This helps to maintain warmth throughout your property and prevents pipes from freezing. We recommend setting your thermostat to at least 12°C as this can make a big difference during cold weather.
Seal Draughts and Cracks
Cold air often enters homes through gaps and cracks, and this can increase the risk of frozen pipes. Check the areas around doors, windows, and where pipes enter your property for any gaps or cracks. If you find any issues, use sealant or draught excluders to block cold air and maintain a warm indoor temperature.
Let Taps Drip Slightly to Prevent Frozen Pipes
A tip that’s sometimes shared by a Northwich plumber during a visit is to let your taps drip slightly. During colder nights, allow the taps to drip slightly to prevent pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze than still water, reducing the chance of ice forming inside the pipes.
What to Do If You Have Frozen Pipes
If you’ve followed the tips we’ve shared above and still have issues with frozen pipes during the winter months, there are further steps to take to avoid long-term damage to your plumbing system. Start by turning off the water supply at the main valve and then open the affected tap to relieve pressure. You can then gently warm up the pipe using a hairdryer or warm towels, but never use an open flame to treat and heat the pipe. If you think the pipe might already have burst, it’s critical that you contact an emergency plumber straight away to reduce the chances of further damage.
Why Choose a Local Northwich Plumber?
Working with an emergency plumber in Northwich ensures you receive quick support when you find yourself in a difficult situation during the winter months. Local professionals understand common plumbing issues, making them better equipped to resolve challenges. We recommend always keeping the contact details of a local plumber handy in the winter months to avoid delays with contacting a plumber for support if you find yourself in an emergency situation.
Frozen pipes are a common but preventable issue for homeowners in Northwich. If you need support with your plumbing system, contact our team today for more information about the services we offer or to discuss any questions you have about frozen pipes in winter.