Cumbrians are being warned to protect their pipes as temperatures drop across the county.
United Utilities is asking people to check and insulate water pipes in their homes and businesses to stop them from bursting.
Sub-zero temperatures can cause pipework to freeze and when the weather starts to warm again, it can put strain on the pipes causing them to crack, leak or burst.
The water firm is asking people to think PIPE this winter, and remember the following points:
- Prepare – Know where your stop tap is and check it works. Have a number of a plumber at hand or check if a water pipe leak or burst is covered on your home or business insurance.
- Insulate – Insulate pipes in cold places like outside and in the garage and loft.
- Protect – Any other exposed equipment, such as outside taps with an insulated cover.
- Easy – Do it because it’s easy and cheap.
People are also encouraged to wrap pipes with lagging and pay particular attention to the pipes in cold areas, such as a garage, cellar or those outside buildings as these are most likely to freeze when the temperature drops.
Pipes in loft spaces are also susceptible to feeling the chill and would benefit from their own insulation duvet to stop the colder weather causing any problems.
Visit www.unitedutilities.com/winterwise for more information on how to protect your home this winter.
