While the UK has been basking in relatively mild weather, experts are now cautioning households to brace themselves for a cold snap.
With November well underway, it’s only a matter of time before temperatures take a nosedive.
Weather maps from WXCharts indicate an Arctic blast striking central Scotland on November 20, which will later spread across the country.
Burst pipes can be hugely inconvenient and expensive. The Association of British Insurers estimates that fixing them can cost around £9,300.
To help homeowners avoid this issue, The Underfloor Heating Store has offered three simple tips to prevent heating pipes from freezing this winter.
How to stop pipes from freezing and bursting:
Insulate your pipes
Pipe insulation starts from just 94p, according to the professionals. Alternatively, you can undertake a DIY project using insulation and items such as duct tape or cable ties to secure it.
“Firstly, ensuring your heating pipes are insulated can help keep the water within your pipes warmer, even if the heating isn’t on. Prices for insulation can start from as little as 94p, depending on the size of your pipes and the amount of insulation you need.
“It’s easy to insulate pipes yourself, too. Simply measure the pipes, cut the insulation to the required size and secure around the pipe with duct tape or cable ties. Just ensure your water is turned off and pipes are cool when you insulate them.”
Make use of your thermostat if you’re away this winter
Even when you’re away, it’s crucial to keep the heating on for at least a half hour daily. This prevents the water from freezing and safeguards your pipes from bursting.
“Secondly, timing your heating to kick in when temperatures are expected to plummet below freezing can stop your pipes from freezing. This is particularly handy if you plan to be away during the winter months, helping you avoid returning to a home with frozen or burst pipes.
“Set your thermostat to activate for roughly 30 minutes to an hour in the morning and again at night when temperatures are likely to fall below freezing. This helps circulate heat through your pipes and keeps the water within them warm enough to prevent freezing.”
Seal any exterior or interior cracks for as little as £5
“Lastly, if you spot any cracks in your home’s exterior or interior, we always recommend sealing these up. This ensures no unnecessary cold air can infiltrate your indoor pipes, aiding in heat retention within your home and maintaining your pipes at a reasonable temperature.
“Floor sealant can be bought for around £5 and acts as a draught proofer for rooms and can be applied to original flooring, laminate or tiles. You can also purchase sealant for other interior features like door frames and skirting boards, and use expanding foam for external cracks on your external features.”
