November 2004
Beat the winter blues
T’is the season to be jolly … well it is until the heating packs in or a burst pipe waters the Christmas tree. It’s a well known fact that as soon as the holiday season hits, things have a nasty knack of going wrong. So if the worst happens with your plumbing and heating systems will you be prepared?
The Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (IPHE) has put together some winter top tips to stop you feeling the winter blues:
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Stop valves (stopcocks) can be a real lifesaver in an emergency. Make sure you know the location of and have labelled the stop valve on the incoming water supply main (usually under the sink). Label all other stop vales so you know where they are. Test all stop valves regularly to make sure they work correctly.
Make sure you know the location of any drain valves by which you can empty your water and central heating systems once the source of heat has been extinguished.
Ensure that all exposed pipes and storage system are properly insulated, particularly in the roof space or attic.
In very cold weather take special care to prevent water pipes becoming frozen. If you have a storage cistern in the roof space it will be sensible to open the hatch to allow some heat from the house to help keep the cistern from freezing.
Have central heating boilers and other heating appliances serviced regularly (the IPHE advises yearly servicing – you’d service your car, think of the value of your home).
- Make a note of your Registered Plumber’s address and telephone number and keep it in a prominent place for emergencies.
To find a professional plumber in your area contact the IPHE on 01708 472791. For advice on a whole range of plumbing related consumer issues visit the Consumer Advice section on www.iphe.org.uk.
ENDS (310 WORDS)NOVEMBER 2004
