Winter is a time of cosy nights and festive cheer, but it is also a time of freezing temperatures that can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing. A frozen pipe can burst and lead to costly repairs and damage. Whether you are at home or away, you should take steps to prevent frozen pipes. In this blog, we will go through five must-do tips to help you avoid frozen pipes, what to do if your pipes are already frozen, and how to handle situations like a water pipe bursting inside the house.

At Plumbing Network, we specialise in professional plumbing solutions for homeowners and businesses across Sheffield and South Yorkshire. Read on to discover how to protect your home during the chilly months.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem

When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands and creates pressure that can cause pipes to crack or burst. The result? A potential flood and significant damage to your property. Preparing your plumbing system can save you from the stress and cost of a water pipe bursting in your house.

5 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Use the Best Pipe Insulation to Prevent Freezing

One of the most effective ways to prevent pipes from freezing is by insulating them. Pay special attention to the following:

• Exposed outdoor pipes: Wrap these pipes in foam sleeves or cover them with heating tape.
• Indoor pipes in cold spots: These include pipes in the loft, garage, or under the sink.
• Water tanks: Insulate your water tank if it is located in a colder area of the house.

Good insulation protects cold air from entering and maintains a stable temperature in your pipes.

2. Keep Your Heating On

If you are going away over winter, do not turn the heating off completely. Turn your thermostat to at least 15°C so that the space remains warm and the risk of freezing is minimised. Open cupboard doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes and leave the loft hatch a little open to warm, colder spaces.

3. Drip Your Faucets During Freezing Weather

Running water is less likely to freeze, so during freezing spells, allow your faucets to drip slightly. This simple step can prevent ice blockages in your pipes.

If you’re away, consider asking a neighbour or a trusted friend to run the taps occasionally. It’s a small effort that can prevent significant damage, such as a water pipe bursting inside your house.

4. Isolate and Drain Outdoor Water Supplies

Shut off and drain outdoor taps and hoses to prevent freezing. Where possible, install isolation valves indoors to turn off the water supply to external pipes. This reduces the chances of freezing in exposed areas.

For greater safety, turn off the supply when the taps are not in use during winter.

5. Plan Ahead if Your Pipes Freeze

However, no matter how careful you are, pipes do freeze sometimes. And if you already have frozen pipes, act immediately:

• Open the taps: This would ease pressure and point out the possible obstruction.
• Warm the pipes slowly: You can use a hairdryer or warm towels around the frozen section. Do not use an open flame.
• Call an emergency plumber: If you can’t identify the blockage or thawing is not effective, then it is time to call the pros.

It will help avert a full-blown water pipe burst in your house if one acts swiftly.

What to Do in Case a Water Pipe Bursts in the House

A burst pipe may send one into a tizzy, but staying cool and following these steps can contain the damage.

• Switch off the water supply: Identify the location of the main stopcock and turn it off.
• Drain the system: Open all taps to drain any remaining water from the pipes.
• Cut off electricity: If water reaches electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power for safety.
• Call an emergency plumber: Do not try to fix the burst water pipe inside your house. Professionals can do it more efficiently.

At Plumbing Network, our experienced team is ready to respond to emergencies quickly.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes Safely?

If your pipes are already frozen, here’s how to thaw them without causing further damage:
1. Start by turning on the affected tap to relieve pressure.
2. Locate the frozen section and apply gentle heat. Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or portable heater.
3. Open cabinets and loft hatch to allow warm air to circulate.
4. If you’re unsure or the pipes don’t thaw, it’s best to call a plumber. Ignoring frozen pipes can lead to a burst and expensive repairs.

Quick Comparison of Preventive Measures

Method	What It Does	When to Use It
Best pipe insulation	Keeps pipes warm and prevents freezing	For exposed or vulnerable indoor/outdoor pipes
Dripping faucets	Prevents ice blockages by maintaining water flow	During extreme cold weather
Thermostat at 15°C	Maintains a warm environment in the home	When home is unoccupied
Draining outdoor pipes	Eliminates water that could freeze in exposed pipes	Before winter or prolonged cold spells
Emergency plumber	Handles serious issues like frozen or burst pipes	If preventive measures fail

Conclusion

Preventing frozen pipes isn’t complicated, but it does require preparation. From using the best pipe insulation to running your taps during freezing weather, these tips can save you from the frustration and cost of a burst pipe.

Plumbing Network is here to help you with plumbing emergencies, such as a water pipe burst in your house. Our professional and affordable services in Sheffield and South Yorkshire ensure that your plumbing is in safe hands.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your pipes—protect them today! Contact us for expert advice or immediate assistance from an emergency plumber.

FAQs

Q. What is the best pipe insulation to prevent freezing?

Ans. Foam pipe insulation and heating tapes are the best options. They are affordable, easy to install, and effective in protecting pipes in cold areas.

Q. How can I tell if my pipes are frozen?

Ans.If no water flows from your faucets or the pressure is shallow, your pipes are probably frozen. You may also notice frost on exposed pipes.

Q. What should I do if my pipes are already frozen?

AnsTurn on the affected faucets to relieve pressure and try warming the pipes with a hairdryer. If this doesn’t work or you’re unsure, call an emergency plumber for help.

Q. Is it possible that a frozen pipe could result in a burst pipe?

Ans.Yes, because ice expands inside the pipe and can cause cracks or even bursts, which results in a water pipe burst inside your house.

Q. How can I prepare my home for freezing weather?

Insulate your pipes, leave your heating on, and drain outdoor water supplies. Dripping faucets during a cold spell can also help prevent freezing.