Freeze!
Damage to pipes occurs when they become frozen, but you're only going to notice when the water in the pipe thaws. So, if a pipe is frozen isolate the affected area by closing your stoptap.
Start Running!
When your pipes begin to thaw, run your taps into sink basins and baths to drain the plumbing system. This should reduce damage caused by water escaping from a burst pipe.
Warning
After freezing has occurred in pipes there's a risk of a burst if heat is applied suddenly. Don't switch on water heating appliances including boilers and immersion heaters until you're sure the system has thawed out. Reheat the building using gas, solid fuel or electric heaters that are unconnected with the plumbing or central heating system. Don't try to thaw pipes using a naked flame. A hairdryer can be used to direct hear onto frozen pipes, but take care, the pipe may burst as it thaws and spray water. Thaw the pipe at the end nearest the tap first.
Resuming Normal Service
Once the plumbing has thawed and there's no leaks, stop running the taps and slowly open the stoptap. Check the plumbing system for leask once it's under pressure and, only when you're satisfied all stystems are thawed, switch on water heating appliances. If you notice a leak, isolate the affected pipe by closing the stoptap, then call our repairs line on 0800 1380 580.
December 2010
