How To Prevent Boiler Breakdowns
November 9, 2022
How Hard Water Can Affect Your Plumbing
December 9, 2022
For domestic plumbing services, one of the biggest issues facing households this winter is the potential for damage caused by freezing pipes this winter, which not only can cause blockages but potentially burst pipes.
As water expands when it freezes unlike most frozen solids, freezing pipes can potentially cause significant damage to your plumbing system, and so to avoid expensive and time-consuming fixes, here are some top tips to stop your pipes from freezing this festive season.
Check Your Insulation
Any parts of your water system that are in cold areas of your house should be insulated, with the most effective type being sponge covers shaped to fit pipes. As well as this, make sure to insulate your water tanks, particularly if they are stored in the basement, loft or outside.
Leave Your Heating System On
If you have a modern central heating system, you will notice that you cannot completely turn it off, with most typically keeping a target temperature of five degrees Celsius.
The reason for this is that it stops your pipes from freezing over, but if you want to make absolutely sure, set your thermostat to around 15 degrees Celsius to help keep the air temperature inside your home warm.
Get Your Boiler Serviced
If you have not had your boiler serviced by a professional, try to get that sorted as soon as possible before the middle of winter, so a fault does not catch you out during the most challenging months of the year. An expert can also give you advice on other steps you can take as well.
Open Unheated Spaces
Try to encourage warm air to circulate throughout the house, including in areas that are unheated and thus vulnerable to freezing temperatures.
Loft hatches should be kept open to help keep the chill away as well as boiler cabinet doors, if only during the coldest parts of the evening.
Consider Draining The System
If you are planning on a long winter break, it may be worth looking into shutting down and draining the water from your system entirely but make sure to speak to an expert before you consider this step.
