With a combination of cold snaps and milder spells becoming the norm during the winter months, it’s important to consider how the changes in weather and temperature can affect your pipes.
During the cold weather, pipes and taps can freeze, causing bursts or leaks and if your business closes for long periods during the winter months, it may be more at risk. If you do find your pipes have frozen, there are a few ways you can fix the problem.
Use the stop tap to turn off the water supply, then slowly thaw out the frozen pipe, starting at the end closest to the tap, using any of the following methods:
• A hairdryer
• A towel that’s been soaked in hot water
• A hot water bottle
• Warm (not boiling) water from the kettle
Never use a naked flame or boiling water to thaw frozen pipes.
When mild weather occurs just after a cold snap, pipes can thaw, expand and burst. If you find a leak or burst on your pipe, turn off your stop taps and your central heating. Leave one of your internal taps on so thawed water can escape, and contact your plumber. You can find a list of approved plumbers on the WaterSafe website or contact Wave and we can give you a quote to fix your leak.
