Winter heralds the risk of frozen pipes, leaks, and potential plumbing disasters. But a little preventive care can go a long way towards protecting homes from the chilling grip of frozen plumbing. Here are some tips to help your clients winterise their plumbing systems and stay safe and warm this coming cold season.
Insulate. Insulate. Insulate!
Pipe protection starts with insulation. Begin by insulating exposed pipes (and your water tank if you have one), especially those in unheated areas like attics and basements, to safeguard against freezing temperatures.
Draft proof your home
Inspect your home for cracks or holes that could allow cold air to seep in and expose your pipes to freezing temperatures. Seal these gaps to keep the cold at bay and the warmth inside where it belongs.
Keep the heating on
Are you heading off to visit family over the festive season? If so, keep the thermostat set to a consistent temperature to keep your home warm and prevent pipes from freezing. British Gas recommends keeping your thermostat set to at least 7°C, even if you’re not at home.
Know how to shut off the water
In case of an emergency, it’s vital to know how to shut off your main water supply. Being prepared can mitigate potential damage in the event of frozen or burst pipes.
Disconnect outdoor hoses
Disconnect and drain your outdoor hoses before temperatures drop, and shut off the outdoor water supply. Use insulated covers to provide an extra layer of protection to outdoor/garden taps.
Book a plumbing check-up!
One of the best things you can do to prevent plumbing disasters is to have a professional plumber/heating engineer inspect your system before winter sets in. This includes testing your radiators to ensure they are working correctly and giving your boiler the once-over if it has yet to have its annual service. A professional installer will help identify vulnerable areas, carry out any fixes, and offer advice on safeguarding your pipes against freezing.
Please feel free to send these tips to your customers to help them proactively winterise their plumbing systems and enjoy a cosy, worry-free winter.
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