Cold weather can sometimes cause problems in your home, such as frozen or burst pipes. Taking a few simple steps can help protect your home and avoid costly damage.

Before cold weather arrives

• Keep your home warm whenever possible.
• Allow warm air to circulate around your home.
• Make sure you know where your stop valve is. This is used to turn off your water supply in an emergency.
• If you will be away from home during cold weather, take steps to protect your property from frozen pipes.

When you return home

If you have turned off your water while away:

• Turn the stop valve back on.
• Check your taps to make sure water is flowing normally.

If your heating is switched on but your radiators are cold:

• Check that the timer is set correctly.
• Check that the boiler pilot light is on (if applicable).
• If the problem continues, call us on 01255 686477.

If you have a frozen pipe

• Turn off the water supply at the stop valve.
• Switch off your immersion heater.
• Turn off all taps.
• Contact us on 01255 686477.
• Never use a naked flame or blowtorch to thaw frozen pipes.

If you have a burst pipe

• Turn off the water supply at the stop valve immediately.
• Turn on all taps to help drain the system.
• Try to identify where the leak is coming from.
• Use a bucket or container to catch leaking water.
• Contact us before turning the water supply back on.

Important: If water is leaking through or near a light fitting, do not touch the fitting or switch on the electricity. Contact us immediately.

Helpful video

Watch our short guide for advice on dealing with frozen pipes