Reduce The Risk Of A Burst Water Pipe – Prepare Your Pipes For Winter
According to a recent survey conducted by GoCompare, the most common household insurance claim in 2022 was related to damage caused by escape of water from a leaking pipe or a burst water pipe caused by freezing. This category accounted for just over a quarter of all domestic property insurance claims.
A sudden drop in temperature can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand, resulting in an increase in pressure within the pipe causing it to burst. When the ice melts it allows water to escape from the pipe resulting in extensive damage to the property.
This explains why you are more likely to experience a burst water pipe in winter, because as the cold sets in, burst pipe season begins. The good news is, with some careful planning, you can seriously reduce the risk of a burst water pipe.
5 ways you can protect your property from a burst water pipe:
- Inspect unheated areas of your property checking pipework in the loft, garage and outside areas, such as garden taps and pipes. Make sure all exposed pipework is thoroughly lagged to avoid freezing.
- Those with a condensing boiler should keep an eye on external condensate drainage pipes, as these often protrude out of the property and consequentially are more susceptible to weather related damage or freezing which can result in the boiler shutting off.
- It is essential to service your boiler regularly to ensure it is in full working order.
While we acknowledge the financial challenges that some may face due to the current economic climate, we strongly urge you to heat your home as frequently as your budget allows during the coldest months to protect your pipework.
You can find a qualified gas safe engineer here on the Gas Safe Register. - If you are going away, it is beneficial to leave your heating on low to protect internal pipework from freezing. The Association of British Insurers recommends either using a smart thermostat or heating timer to heat your home at regular intervals.
If you are going away for long periods during the winter months, consider shutting off the cold mains water supply pipework at the stop tap and fully draining your plumbing system to minimise potential damage in the event of a burst water pipe. - Where possible, apply caulk to seal openings in and around pipes located in external cupboards and cabinets to prevent cold air from infiltrating the unit.
Prepare for all eventualities
Always keep the contact details of a reliable plumber readily available, to avoid scrambling for recommendations in an emergency. Individuals with insurance policies that cover escape of water should review their terms and conditions to make certain they are adhering to any necessary maintenance requirements.
If you’ve already faced cold weather and your pipework has frozen, you can refer to our blog ‘How To Check For Frozen Pipes This Winter’ for further guidance.
Rainbow Restoration’s specialists in water damage restoration will efficiently and cost-effectively restore your property to its pre-incident condition, all while maintaining the high level of care and attention to detail you would anticipate from the best in the industry.
Our extensive network of experienced technicians covers the UK with over 50 branches nationwide, ensuring that there is a branch within just 23 miles of any UK postcode.
Call our 24/7 national helpline on 01623 422488 or use our branch finder.
Updated: 31/10/23