The Freezing Truth Of Burst Pipes

The Freezing Truth Of Burst Pipes

• Posted by Luscombe & Co in blog, Tips & Advice
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It’s undeniably true. It’s happened again. Like it does every time. Like it does every single year. WINTER…. (and a good dose of festivity along with it!)

Along with winter, there are always some maintenance things to keep in mind on your property. You DO NOT want to get up in the middle of the night because of a burst pipe!

Tim Downes, senior claims manager at Halifax Home Insurance, said: “A burst pipe can be extremely stressful – especially if it happens at night or at the weekend, making it harder to track down an emergency plumber who can help get the house back to normal.

“These claims are more likely to happen during the winter due to pipes freezing and then bursting during the colder weather. Prevention is definitely better than the cure.”

Here are some precautionary measures you can take to ensure those pipes don’t freeze:

1. Set your thermostat at a temperature of 12°C. Even overnight. An expensive pipe freeze justifies the heating costs.

   1. Some thermostats have an automatic winter option that regularly heats the system to keep pipes at the right temperature.

2. Insulate, insulate, insulate. This is so easy to do and makes all the difference. Insulate exposed pipes in basements, attics, garages, kitchen cabinets and outside. Use UL-listed heat tape or foam rubber insulation where pipes are exposed to cold moving air.

3. Going on holiday? Consider draining your water system for that period. Alternatively you can ask a neighbour to check in for leaks in the house.

If the Ice hits the Fan and there is an emergency:

1. Turn off the main water supply at the stopcock – make sure you know where this is before a crisis strikes!

2. Turn off your electricity supply, and avoid all electrical appliances.

3. Take photos of the damage – this will help support your claim.

4. Call a plumber. Also make sure you have a reliable one you know and trust that will be able to help you in an emergency.

This might seem like unlikely advice from a letting agent, but we’ve seen so many burst and frozen pipes that could‘ve been avoided by applying the simple steps above. We want to help YOU, our landlord have the best festive season possible!

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