Pipes and Plumbing

Taking care of your plumbing can prevent small issues from becoming big problems. With a few simple steps, you can keep things running smoothly and avoid emergencies. On this page, you will find easy tips and a helpful video to guide you maintain your pipes, prevent frozen pipes in cold weather, and be prepared in case of leaks or bursts. 

 

 


 

frozen pipe

Our Maintaining the Plumbing in your Home video below, shows you how to find and use a stop tap, replace washers on a tap, unblock drains, replace a toilet seat and toilet handles and how to isolate a leak.

Cold weather can freeze pipes. 

  • Putting the heating on, even at low temperatures and regularly running water through your taps can help prevent frozen pipes.
  • If you are away from home, it’s a good idea to let your central heating come on for regular, short intervals.
  • If you have a burst pipe, turn the water off and contact us.

Do you know where your stop tap is? 

  • A stop tap is designed to control the flow of mains cold water into your home.
  • When you turn it in a clockwise direction the water supply will shut off.  
  • Stop taps are usually found in kitchens, below the sink unit or in the bathroom.
  • It’s important that you know where your stop tap is in case of burst water pipes or leaks – don’t leave it until you have an emergency.

 

 

Thawing a Frozen Condensate Pipe

During very cold weather, your boiler may stop working due to a frozen condensate pipe. This is one of the most commonly reported faults during the winter period. If your condensate pipe does freeze there are few simple steps you can take to fix it. 

  • Turn off your boiler. This is for safety and to prevent any further condensation building up in the pipe.
  • Locate your condensate pipe and frozen section. This is usually a plastic pipe, located on your exterior wall.
  • To defrost the pipe, you can try the following: 

-Use a hot water bottle or towel soaked in hot water to wrap around the frozen section. Leave this in position to gradually thaw the pipe. 

-Gradually pour hot water over the pipe. The hot water will help melt the frozen section. It is important to do this safely and slowly to avoid damage to the pipe and to avoid any injury to yourself. DO NOT use boiling water. 

Once you’ve applied heat to the frozen pipe, and water is flowing again you can then restart your boiler. 

Warning! 

  • Do not rush thawing the pipe by using water that is too hot.
  • Always make sure that you are standing at ground level when pouring water onto it – do not climb to a higher level to reach frozen pipes.
  • Never disconnect the pipe.
  • Always use suitable protection for your hands when handling hot water.
  • Be careful where you pour the water as it may freeze and become a slip hazard.