United Utilities urge residents across the North West to protect their pipes from freeze thaw

As the cold snap continues across the North West, water company United Utilities is warning residents and business owners to check pipes and insulate them ahead of the freeze thaw this weekend – think PIPE (Prepare, Insulate, Protect, Easy).

It’s been a chilly start to 2025, with a bit of fun in the snow going down well with families and friends across the North West; but sub-zero temperatures can cause pipework to freeze, and when the weather starts to warm again, it can put strain on the pipes and cause leaks or, in some instances, water bursts.

The best way to avoid the headache of a plumbing burst is to insulate your pipes. Wrap your pipes with lagging and pay particular attention to the pipes in cold areas, such as a garage, cellar or those outside your property, as these are the ones most likely to freeze when the temperature drops. Pipes in your loft space are also susceptible to feeling the chill, and would be benefit from their own insulation ‘duvet’ to stop the thaw causing problems.

There’s more ways to keep your property safe, and these include:

• Knowing where your stop tap is – if you had a leak, would you know where your stop tap is to turn off the water coming into your home?
• Know who to contact – do you have contact details for a plumber to hand? If not, you can find one in your area at www.watersafe.org.uk
• Check for household leaks regularly – this can stop a small problem, becoming a larger issue.

Burst and leaking pipes can cause damage to your home or business, so being prepared will help to reduce the impact of flooding from burst pipes, which can be extremely distressing as well as costly and time-consuming to repair.

If you do have a burst pipe, don't panic, follow our advice below: 

• Find your stop tap, which is usually under the kitchen sink and turn it clockwise to turn off the water. Watch our video to get advice on how to find your stop tap.
• Turn off your heating, open all your taps to drain the system quickly.
• Soak up any escaping water with towels.
• Check with your home insurance company to see if you’re covered for leaks and bursts or call a plumber.
• If you need to find a plumber in your area visit www.watersafe.org.uk
• If water has leaked near your electrics switch them off at the mains.

United Utilities is committed to keeping people safe and supporting those who need it most. You can join the priority services register, and find out what other support is available to you by clicking here.

For more information on how to best prepare and dealing with frozen pipes, visit www.unitedutilities.com/winter