Frozen pipes and what to do

Frozen pipes are common when the temperatures are really low. They can stop your boiler from working  and can cause lots of damage if they burst. 

That's why it's important to check your pipes regularly to make sure they aren't frozen. Here's how you can do that:

1. Start by checking the pipes that are most likely to freeze, such as those that are exposed to the cold air outside or those that run along exterior walls.

2. Look for any signs of frost or ice on the pipes. This is a clear indication that the water inside the pipe has frozen.

3. If you see frost or ice, gently apply heat to the pipe using something like a hair dryer. Never use an open flame or torch to thaw frozen pipes, as this can be dangerous.

4. As the ice begins to melt, you may hear a hissing or gurgling sound as the water starts to flow again. This is a good sign that the pipe is thawing.

5. Once the pipe is thawed, run the connecting tap regularly to allow the water to flow freely and help prevent the pipe from freezing again.

It's also a good idea to try and take preventative measures to avoid frozen pipes. Here's some tips:

• Disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses to prevent water from freezing inside them.

• You can buy pipe insulation from most DIY stores, and fit it yourself: the most vulnerable pipes will be those in the coldest parts of your home, and outside.

• Popping your heating on a couple of times a day should also help prevent the pipes from freezing, and shutting the water off if you plan on going away for a week or so.