Thaw out frozen pipes

During cold weather, pipes can freeze or burst. These problems can be serious, but many can be sometimes be prevented or fixed with a few simple steps. 

What to do if a heating pipe bursts

1. Turn off the water
   Find your stop tap (usually under the sink or in a cupboard) and turn it off. This stops more water from flowing into your pipes.

2. Turn off the boiler’s electricity supply
   Switch off the boiler at the isolating switch. This is usually next to the boiler.

3. Call us immediately
   Phone us on 0330 1234 034. We’re here to help.

4. The system will drain
   Even with the water turned off, some water may continue to escape until the system drains. Be patient.

Preventing burst water pipes

What to do if a pipe freezes:

1. Act quickly
   A frozen pipe can burst if not dealt with. Thaw it immediately using the same method as for condensate pipes: a hot water bottle or warm water.

2. Check vulnerable areas
   Pipes are most at risk of freezing if they’re:

   • On an outside wall
   • Under a sink on an outside wall
   • In an unheated area

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Tips for staying prepared

• Insulate outdoor taps
  Buy insulation materials from your local hardware shop to protect outdoor taps.

• Know where your stop tap is
  Locate your internal stop tap now so you can act quickly in an emergency.

• Keep our number handy
  Save our contact number: 0330 1234 034.

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By following these steps, you can keep your home safe and avoid unnecessary damage. Visit our website for more tips and support.

How to thaw a frozen condensate pipe

Frozen condensate pipes are a common cause of boiler issues in winter. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Check for signs of a frozen pipe
   Look for a fault code on your boiler or listen for a gurgling noise.

2. Thaw the pipe safely

   • Place a hot water bottle on the pipe.
   • Or gently pour warm (not boiling!) water over it. Use a watering can if you have one.

3. Reset your boiler
   Once the pipe is clear, reset your boiler. It should start working again.