Northern Ireland householders urged to be prepared for burst pipes: here are the steps NI Water says everyone needs to take
Householders across Northern Ireland are being reminded of the steps to take if cold weather causes water pipes to freeze and burst.
With a drop in temperatures and more wintry weather on the way, NI Water is urging people to know what to do if the cold snap takes its toll on water pipes on their property.
They are encouraging everyone to know the location of their stop valve and how to turn it off quickly to help safeguard homes and businesses against burst pipes.
NI Water says that by knowing the exaction location of the stop valve – and how to turn it off quickly – will help prevent significant water damage and costly repairs.
NI Water Education Officer Anna Killen said: “When water freezes inside pipes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst. This not only wastes water but can lead to flooding and damage within your home or business.
"Prevention is always better than cure; taking a few simple steps to prepare now will give you peace of mind as the cold weather sets in and make all the difference in avoiding disruption to your water supply and unnecessary expense.”
To help protect your pipes and property during the cold spell, NI Water recommends the following simple steps:
- Check your stop valve: Make sure you can locate and operate your stop valve quickly in case of a leak or burst. Most are located under the kitchen sink. Test it now, so you’re prepared – righty-tighty, clockwise!
- Keep your home warm: Maintain a consistent temperature indoors, even in unused rooms, to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Circulate warm air: Leave cupboard doors open under sinks and in utility areas to help warm air reach vulnerable pipes.
- Insulate pipes: Use pipe lagging to provide extra protection against the cold.
- Check your home insurance: Ensure your policy covers damage caused by water leaks or burst pipes.
- Keep a plumber’s contact handy: Have the details of a qualified plumber available for emergencies - you can find a local professional at www.watersafe.org.uk.
- Protect outdoor taps: Fit covers to outside taps to prevent freezing and potential bursts.
NI Water offers free stop valve tags and outdoor tap covers to help customers prepare for winter via a free online water audit at www.getwaterfit.co.uk
For more advice on winter pipe protection, visit www.niwater.com. The website offers step-by-step guides, video tutorials, and details on how to request free resources, to help need to keep properties safe during the winter months.