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Freezing Weather - Burst Pipes
Monday, January 02, 2012
Burst pipes can cause misery to tenants and landlords,
and to your own businesses alike; take precautions!
Simple steps, such as lagging exposed pipes, could prevent
escape of water and the damage and misery this may cause. Advise
your tenants and landlords to take precautions and practise what
you preach.
Before the freezing weather hits:
- If you leave your home unattended, leave the heating on low
(around (15oC)
- Know where the water shut-off valve (stopcock) is so that the
supply can be isolated in an emergency
- Lag pipes in the loft and check that the header and water tanks
are insulated.
- Lag outside water taps to prevent them freezing and pipes
bursting.
- In severe cold weather, open the loft hatch to warm the
void
- Plastic plumbing joints will probably degrade sooner than metal
ones, so keep an eye out for the slightest hint of water
- If you are going to be away for an extended period, consider
draining down your plumbing and heating system, but please do so
with professional advice
Before high winds and stormy weather hit:
- Regularly check the condition of all rooves. In
particular, check garage, shed and flat rooves for signs of wear
and tear, as this is of particular importance in heavy snow with
the unexpected additional weight.
- Keep gutters, gullies and drains clear so they can carry water
away quickly and efficiently
- A blocked downpipe with trapped rainwater may crack or shatter
in freezing conditions
- Consider cutting back low-hanging tree branches which could
cause damage in high winds
Prevention is better than cure!