Before the cold weather
- Lag pipes in lofts, garages and outside walls with foam pipe insulation
- Turn off and drain outside taps, or fit a cover
- Fix dripping taps — a slow drip can freeze and block a pipe
- Know where your stopcock is and check it turns
During a cold snap
Keep the heating on low — even when you're away — so the house doesn't drop below freezing. Open the loft hatch on very cold nights to let some warm air in, and leave kitchen cupboard doors open if pipes run along outside walls.
If a pipe freezes
Turn off the water at the stopcock. Thaw the pipe slowly with a hairdryer or hot water bottle, starting from the tap end. Never use a naked flame. If the pipe has split, call a plumber.
Need pipes lagged?
We lag pipes, fix outside taps and replace stiff stopcocks — small jobs that prevent the big ones. Get a free quote.
Need a hand?
Echoes Property Works covers North London and nearby areas. See our plumbing service or call 07366 316522.