Hot tips for cold weather

A sudden spell of freezing weather poses a real danger of burst pipes. However, this could be avoided by taking a few simple precautions.

If you're going on holiday, or are away from your home for a few days, try and make sure your heating comes on at least once a day.
Check loft insulation is thick and in good condition. Run it over the pipework where possible.
Lag exposed pipes with felt or pipe-wrap. Tanks should also be lagged, but remember to leave a space beneath for warm air to circulate.
Repair dripping taps and overflows. A build-up of ice can cause blockages.
When it's very cold, leave the loft trapdoor open so warm air can circulate.
Make sure you can turn off the stopcock in an emergency. It's usually under the kitchen sink.
Keep the name of a reliable plumber to hand.
If the pipes freeze, turn water off at the stopcock and thaw pipes slowly using a hot water bottle or cloth soaked in hot water. Never use a blow lamp or heat gun.
If the pipes burst, turn off the water and central heating systems before calling a plumber. You must get the house checked by a qualified electrician.