1. Insulate your pipes
One of the most effective preventive steps is to insulate pipes, especially those in exposed or vulnerable locations such as lofts, garages, underfloor spaces, or external walls. Ways you can insulate your pipes include:
- Use foam pipe insulation (usually known as “pipe lagging”) sized to the diameter of your pipes
- For outdoor taps, use waterproof lagging or dedicated tap covers
- Insulate water tanks, storage cisterns or other exposed plumbing
- Pack insulation around the pipes leading into the water meter or meter cupboard
- In colder rooms, open cupboard doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes
- If you’re away or out of the house, keep the heating on a low frost setting rather than turning it off altogether this helps reduce the risk of your pipes freezing
2. Know how to spot and react to frozen pipes
Even with precautions, pipes may still freeze, especially during extreme cold spells, but knowing what to do can prevent further damage. The telltale signs of frozen pipes include:
- No water flow or a sudden drop in pressure
- One tap works, but others don’t
- No water flow throughout your property
If you do experience a frozen pipe, here are some key pointers to help you get your water up and running:
- Turn off your stop tap, this is usually located under the kitchen sink, garage or cellar
- Turn on the cold tap – as the thawing begins, excess water can escape rather than build pressure
- Gently warm the frozen pipe using a warm towel or hairdryer in short bursts. Do not use a naked flame or blow torch
- When water begins to flow again, keep the tap on low and check for any leaks or bursts as pressure returns
- If you can’t restore water or find a burst in your pipes, call a plumber for further assistance
3. Double-check your ‘winter prep’ checklist
Here are a few other helpful steps to consider ahead of the season change:
- Know where your stop tap is
- Keep a plumber’s contact number to hand in case of emergencies
- Seal drafts and block cold airflow around external walls, windows, and doors
- Schedule your annual boiler service and bleed radiators
- Check your home insurance to ensure coverage for leaks, burst pipes, or water damage
- Inspect for existing leaks or dripping taps and repair them ahead of the main freeze season
Priority Services support for those who need extra help
Winter can be a challenging time for us all. If you or someone you know has health, mobility or communication needs that may make dealing with water supply issues more challenging, United Utilities offers Priority Services, which is free of charge for anyone to use.
United Utilities’ Priority Services includes initiatives to help customers who may have mental health, hearing, speech or visual impairment difficulties. They also provide additional support for anyone who requires a little extra guidance during home visits.
Anyone can register for Priority Services online via the United Utilities website or by calling 0345 072 6093.
For more information on how to winter proof your home ahead of the season change, visit: Cold weather advice | United Utilities
