Cold snaps can cause water in supply pipes to freeze which could then leave homes in the area without water. When the water freezes it expands and can cause pipes to crack then as temperatures begin to rise the ice will melt and inevitably escape through the crack.
Some properties in Hull are more likely to have their external pipes freeze as these do not tend to be underground like in other parts of the region. As the pipes are exposed, it’s important residents do all they can to stop their pipes from freezing up.
Customers are advised to take the simple steps below to make their homes winter-ready:
• Protect all exposed pipe work, cisterns, tanks, taps and water meters in unheated areas with waterproof foam lagging or insulation
• Know where the stop tap is located at the property in case it needs to be turned off in an emergency. The main stop tap is usually found at the point where the pipe work enters the premises, often it is under the kitchen sink
• Make sure you keep a plumber’s number handy in case of an emergency
• Keep homes warm - set central heating on a low heat or a 24-hour constant setting. If you're going away on holiday tell a neighbour or friend so that they can check to make sure there have been no burst pipes
We recommend that any customers who have additional needs sign up to our vulnerable customer register – www.yorkshirewater.com/priorityservices
Should communities in North and North East Lincolnshire have any concerns, please see the Anglian Water website. Although their advice will be similiar, helplines and contact details will be specific to that area.