Water experts have revealed three things you must do now to help avoid frozen pipe damage this winter.
In cold weather, your water pipes can freeze and then burst as they thaw - leading to a potentially expensive repair job.
But there are steps you can take to make your home winter-ready as temperatures drop.
Parts of the UK have already been battered by Storm Arwen and Storm Barra this year.
The former brought winds of 100mph and snow to parts of the north of England and Scotland.
As temperatures are forecast to stay cold, Water UK explains the top mistakes people make that could result in frozen pipe damage this winter.
Get your boiler serviced regularly
Water UK found 23% of people said they service their boiler less than the recommended once a year.
Servicing your boiler regularly can help reduce pipe damage, which could help keep your home in better condition for winter.
Only 55% of the people Water UK spoke to said they’ve had their boiler serviced ahead of the cold months.
A one-off boiler service will cost you between £60 and £120 generally, but it does depend on what part of the UK you live in.
Insulate your water tank and lag pipes
Insulate your water tank and lag your water pipes inside and outside your home to prevent any freezing this winter.
You should also be checking for any drips or cracks to make sure they’re in good condition.
One metre of pipe insulation from Airconspares.com starts from just 46p and fits 15mm pipes.
Water UK research found nearly a quarter (22%) of the public don’t take any recommended measures to protect their pipes from colder weather.
Know where your stop tap is
Water UK research shows 33% of people don’t know where their stop tap is - leaving them exposed to freezing and bursting pipes.
A stop tap, or stopcock, is a small tap on your water pipe which turns off the water supply to your property.
They’re normally under the kitchen sink or in the downstairs loo, or you may find it in a garage or a utility room.
If you can't find it, check with your neighbours – they're normally in the same place if your properties are similar.
Have you had trouble with frozen pipes this winter? Let us know: mirror.money.saving@mirror.co.uk
What to do if your water pipes freeze
Water UK has the following step-by-step tips for what you should do if your water pipes are frozen :
- Turn off the water supply at the stopcock.
- Check to see if the pipe has burst.
- Slowly thaw the pipe with hot water bottles or a towel soaked in hot water, starting at the end nearest the tap.
- You can also use a hair-dryer (lowest setting) but NOT a naked flame or blowlamp.
Peter Jenkins, director of campaigns at Water UK said: “We all want to be warm and cosy over the winter months and not have to worry about our pipes freezing or our central heating packing up.
“Simple things like bleeding your radiator, getting your boiler serviced and lagging your pipes can help you and your family enjoy a trouble-free season.
“We know things are still difficult for many people and there’s lots of help available from your water company.
“If you are worried about paying your bills or in need of advice, then get in touch with your water company."
