How to Winterproof Your Plumbing

Winter puts real strain on plumbing systems, mostly through the risk of freezing in exposed pipework — a bit of preparation before the cold sets in avoids most of the common problems.

Insulate exposed pipes

Any pipework in unheated spaces — roof cavities, garages, outside walls — is vulnerable to freezing. Pipe insulation sleeves are inexpensive and significantly reduce that risk.

Service your geyser before winter

Geysers work harder in winter to heat colder incoming water. A pre-winter service — checking the element, flushing sediment, testing the pressure valve — catches issues before they turn into a mid-winter breakdown.

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses

Water trapped in an outdoor hose or irrigation line can freeze and cause damage back through the connected pipework. Disconnect hoses and drain irrigation systems before the coldest part of the season.

Know your main stopcock

If a pipe does freeze and burst, being able to shut off the water supply immediately limits the damage significantly. Make sure it’s accessible and everyone in the household knows where it is.

Check for draughts near pipework

Gaps around where pipes enter or exit a wall let cold air in directly onto the pipe. Sealing these gaps is a small job that adds meaningful protection.

Keep consistent indoor heating

A consistently moderate indoor temperature protects interior pipework far better than letting the house go cold and heating intensely only when occupied.

None of this takes long to do, and it’s considerably cheaper than repairing a burst pipe and the water damage that comes with it.