As temperatures drop and snow and ice settle in, it’s really important to be prepared.

This is especially the case when it comes to protecting your water pipes and keeping your home safe during extreme cold weather.

One of the most common issues in freezing conditions is frozen and burst pipes, which can cause significant damage.

But with a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk and ensure your home stays safe and warm throughout the winter.

1. Don’t leave yourself open to frozen and burst pipes

When water freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to crack or burst. It’s crucial to protect your water pipes, particularly those in areas prone to freezing temperatures, like lofts, garages, or outside.

Insulate your pipes and water tanks:
One of the most effective ways to prevent pipes from freezing is by insulating them with good quality lagging. Insulating your water pipes not only prevents freezing but also helps retain heat, reducing your energy costs and improving the efficiency of your hot water system.

Other key areas to focus on when insulating your home

Outside pipework:
Be sure to insulate external pipes like heating drainpipes, overflow pipes, and any exposed pipes leading outside. Don't forget the outside taps! You can find inexpensive pipe insulation and insulated tap covers at most DIY stores.

Cold areas of your home:
Pipes in unused loft spaces and garages are especially vulnerable to freezing. Insulating these areas is crucial to prevent pipes from bursting in the cold snap.

Water tanks:
Often overlooked, water tanks are one of the leading causes of burst pipes during freezing weather. Make sure your water tank is insulated, particularly in colder areas like lofts. A tank jacket is an easy and effective way to provide insulation.

2. Turn off the water if you’re going away

If you're planning to leave your home for a few days, it’s a good idea to turn off your water supply at the stopcock.

Once the water is turned off, it’s a good idea to drain the system by running taps until the pipes are empty. This can help reduce the risk of any water left in the pipes freezing and causing damage.

Remember to close all taps once you’re done to prevent any issues when you return home.

3. Other helpful tips for snow and ice weather:

Clear pathways:
Salt or grit your driveways and walkways to prevent ice from forming. A slip hazard can quickly turn into an emergency, so keeping paths clear is important for your safety. Our Placeshaping Team will continue to grit our sheltered schemes to make sure they are as safe as possible for our residents.

Check your heating:
Make sure your heating system is in good working order before the cold weather sets in. If you’re relying on space heaters, ensure they’re safe and have a working thermostat.

Keep your home warm:
Even when you're not at home, it’s essential to maintain a low level of heat to protect pipes. Keep your thermostat set to at least 10°C to avoid freezing pipes, especially in rooms that are not in use.

Inspect roof and gutters:
Heavy snow can cause damage to your roof or gutters, leading to potential leaks or blockages. Clear any debris and check for any signs of damage before the weather worsens.

By taking a few simple steps to protect your pipes and your home, you can help prevent costly damage caused by freezing temperatures, burst pipes, and ice.

4. Tips for driving in the snow and ice:

• Make slow gentle manoeuvres to stay safe while driving in snow and ice as stopping distances are 10 times longer.

• When brakes are needed, they should be applied gently.

• Pull away in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel-spin.          

• Drive at a constant speed and try to avoid having to change gear.

• If stuck in snow, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels. Put a sack or old rug in front of the driving wheels to give the tyres some grip.

• Wear comfortable and dry footwear while driving.

• Plan your journey carefully, listen to updates on weather and traffic news to help make it as smooth as possible.

• Allow more time than usual before leaving. 

• Clear all windows, lights and your number plate of snow and ice. 

• Clear snow from the roof, bonnet and rear of the vehicle as it can pose issues of safety to your driving and other road users.

• Look ahead to avoid any erratic steering and braking actions.

• Maintain speed, stay at a safe distance behind other road users. 

• Avoid tailgating at all costs.

• Always maintain full control to ensure vehicle stability while braking, accelerating, changing gear and steering.

• Dress appropriately for the climate, take a hat, scarf, winter coat and suitable provisions in case of a breakdown, getting stranded at the roadside or stuck in lengthy traffic congestion.

• Driving in the dark can be tiring so take a break when necessary to stay safe.

As always, if you have an emergency which needs a repair, we will be a phone call away. Please call us on 03332 404 444 or email [email protected]. Stay safe, stay warm, and make sure your home is ready for the winter weather ahead!