Factsheets - Preparing for winter Whilst all advice given is correct to the best of our knowledge, we cannot be held responsible for any problems should you choose to take our advice. Select from the following:

Plumbing Glossary

Emergency plumbing

How to disconnect a washing machine

Mould in bathrooms and showers

Taps and shower valves

Earth bonding

Preparing for winter

Power showering in flats

Buying a bathroom suite

Advice when doing building work

Water pressure

Pressure and stored hot water

Flow and pressure

Water softeners

Boiler breakdowns

Gas Rating

Asbestos Awareness

Preparing for Winter

Before the really cold weather arrives, you can avoid calling out your plumber if you prepare your plumbing for the winter.

• Check any pipes outside or in the loft are to avoid bursts. If not, you can buy cheap plastic foam insulation from any DIY shop.
• Make sure that water tanks in the loft are covered in close-fitting insulation. This has a tendancy to fall off and needs checking annually.
• Whilst your heating is off, use a key to vent any air out of your radiators to avoid cold spots and air locks. This will make your heating more efficient. Radiator keys can be bought from any hardware shop for a few pence.
• Check your heating works before the very cold weather sets in, which is when plumbers and heating engineers are in short supply.

If you can, isolate your garden tap inside the house then leave the tap open to drain out the water and allow expansion over winter.

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