Avoid frozen pipes by setting your thermostat to certain temperature—not 18°C
Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly problems for UK households in winter. To prevent them, experts have recommended "maintaining a minimum temperature".
With freezing temperatures sweeping the UK, frozen pipes are a common issue for many. According to Plumbworld, families may not realise that something as simple as leaving a cabinet door open, as well as maintaining a minimum temperature, could prevent disruption this winter.
When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands, which can cause the pipe to crack or even burst. A burst pipe can flood a home, damage flooring, walls, and electrical systems, and in some cases render a home uninhabitable until repairs are completed. The cost of fixing a single burst pipe can range from £150 to over £1,000, according to the experts, so it’s important to prevent them as much as possible.
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Plumbworld experts explained that leaving cabinet doors open and maintaining a minimum temperature can prevent this common problem.
Eleanor Potter, expert at Plumbworld, said: “Frozen pipes are a serious risk in winter, but they can be avoided with simple actions.
“Opening cabinet doors around sinks and faucets allows warmer air to circulate, and leaving a small drip of water running during very cold nights can make a huge difference.
“These steps are easy to implement and can prevent damage that costs hundreds of pounds to fix.”
Maintaining a minimum temperature of 13°C helps to keep water moving through the system and reduce the risk of freezing.
The expert added: “The consequences of ignoring frozen pipes can be severe. Water escaping from a burst pipe can quickly damage wooden flooring, plaster walls, carpets and electrical systems.
“In addition to repair costs, there may be additional expenses for temporary accommodation if a property becomes unsafe to live in.”
Homeowners are advised to check their plumbing before the coldest nights arrive. This includes inspecting pipes in unheated areas, ensuring cabinet doors are open, and leaving a slow drip of water during cold nights.
These are all “simple but effective measures” which can prevent unexpected and costly emergency repairs.
Eleanor added: “Frozen pipes are avoidable if you plan ahead and act early.”
