As a severe cold snap grips the nation, homeowners are being issued a crucial piece of advice to protect their properties: leave your taps dripping. Experts warn that failing to take this simple preventative step could lead to frozen and burst pipes, resulting in repair bills of around £200 and leaving households without water or central heating for several days.
Why Pipes Freeze and the Costly Consequences
The plunging temperatures, forecast to stay below freezing, pose a significant risk to household plumbing. Andy Ellis from Vidalux.co.uk explains that exterior pipes and those in unheated areas like lofts and garages are most vulnerable. "Frozen pipes can be a common problem in the winter when temperatures hit below freezing," he stated. The water inside the pipes expands as it freezes, which can cause the pipe to crack or burst entirely. The subsequent damage from escaping water, coupled with the cost of a plumber's emergency call-out, makes prevention essential.
The Simple Drip Trick That Saves Money
The recommended defence is surprisingly straightforward. Allow your taps to drip ever so slightly with cold water. "Even this small movement of water through the pipes can prevent them from freezing," advises Ellis. While some may worry about water waste, experts emphasise that the cost of a marginally higher water bill is insignificant compared to the expense and disruption of fixing burst pipes.
How to Implement the Drip Strategy Correctly
To safeguard your home effectively, you need a targeted approach. First, identify the taps connected to pipes that run along external walls or through cold spaces, as these are at highest risk. It is generally advised to let at least one tap drip in each section of your home, particularly if you have multiple floors or an extension.
For taps with separate hot and cold controls, allowing both to drip slightly is the best practice, as it protects both water lines. The taps should be turned on just enough to produce a steady drip. This measure should remain in place until the external temperature is consistently forecast to stay above zero degrees Celsius, both day and night.
Proactive Steps Beyond the Drip
While the dripping tap method is highly effective, homeowners are encouraged to take a broader view of their plumbing's vulnerability. Assessing your home's layout to find all cold spots is key. Insulating exposed pipes in lofts, garages, and under sinks provides an extra layer of protection. By taking these proactive steps now, you can avoid the winter nightmare of a flooded home and a hefty repair bill.
