What to do when a water pipe bursts | Mayne Gas Heating

The joys of living in the UK means inevitable changes to the weather when you least expect it. All it takes is a bit of a frost and for the weather to heat up again to cause a burst pipe. But what should you do when this happens and is there anything you can do to prevent it?

If the unfortunate does happen, you need to act quickly to prevent any further damage. In the event of a burst pipe be careful to follow these steps...

• Locate your stopcock, or stop tap as it is often referred to. Our customers often don't know where theirs is and unfortunately you will find that they are found in different locations depending on your home. If you are unsure, the common places they are often found include: under the kitchen sink, your bathroom, cupboard under the stairs, by the gas metre or in a utility room. If you are still struggling, it could be worth asking your neighbour as chances are, it will be in the same place.

• Once you have found it, you need to turn it off immediately. Internal stopcocks can often be turned off by hand. You may need some pliers just to switch if off fully. Turn the tap of the stopcock off in a clockwise direction.

• Turn off your heating and turn on all your taps to drain the system.

• Use towels to soak up any leaking water.

• If you are covered for leaks or pipe bursts on your home insurance they may send out a plumber. If not you will need to contact a plumber .

• If any water has leaked onto your electrics, switch those off at the mains too to avoid any shortages or power outage.

Fear not, there are lots of things you can do to help prevent burst pipes. From small things you can do around the house to getting the professionals in.

• Insulate your tank and lag pipes (lagging is a material you can pick up from most DIY stores).

• Ensure your taps are working and aren't dripping. Even the smallest drip can cause frozen pipes.

• Leave the heating on low while you are away in the winter or on a timer setting and ask friends and family to check in on the house.

• Have a regular boiler service .

• Make sure you know where your stopcock is in advance, so if the worst does happen you can locate it quickly.

• Keep some bottles of water in the house for drinking should you have to switch the water off.

• Check your insurance in advance to see if you are covered for leaks and water damage.