Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter plumbing problems, and they can cause serious damage if they burst. A burst pipe can flood your home, damage ceilings and floors, and cost thousands in repairs. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to prevent it.
Here’s our guide for homeowners in Portsmouth and across Hampshire.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
When temperatures drop below zero, the water inside pipes can freeze and expand. This pressure can cause the pipe to crack or burst — especially in unheated areas like lofts, garages, or outdoor spaces.
1. Insulate Your Pipes Pipe lagging (insulation) is inexpensive and easy to install. Focus on exposed pipes in cold areas such as lofts, garages, or outside walls.
2. Keep Your Heating On Low Even if you’re away, set your heating to a low constant temperature. Keeping the system ticking over reduces the risk of water freezing in the pipes.
3. Bleed Your Radiators Air trapped in your system makes your heating less efficient, which can increase the risk of cold spots and frozen sections. Bleeding your radiators ensures heat circulates properly.
4. Leave Internal Doors Open Allow warm air to circulate around your home, especially in areas where pipes are hidden, like airing cupboards or under stairs.
5. Find and Use Your Stop TapMake sure you know where your stop tap (main water shut-off valve) is located. In case of a burst, turning it off quickly can limit water damage.
What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze
• Turn off the water supply at the stop tap.
• Gently warm the frozen section with a hot water bottle or a hairdryer (never a naked flame).
• Call a qualified plumber if you can’t restore the flow safely.
Stay Winter-Ready in Portsmouth & Hampshire At Urban Heat Portsmouth, we’ve been helping local homeowners with plumbing and heating emergencies for over 15 years. We serve Portsmouth, Fareham, Havant, Gosport, Waterlooville, and across Hampshire.
We cover Portsmouth and all surrounding towns and villages.
1. Southsea
2. Gosport
3. Fareham
4. Portchester
5. Cosham
6. Waterlooville
7. Havant
8. Hayling Island
9. Lee-on-the-Solent
10. Emsworth
11. Chichester
12. Bognor Regis
13. Petersfield
14. Horndean
15. Denmead
16. Southampton
17. Paul’s grove
18. Drayton
19. Purbrook
20. Cowplain
21. Horndean
22. Bosham
📞 Call us today for winter plumbing checks or emergency call-outs.