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Advice to Grampian households: Beat the winter freeze


By Alistair Whitfield

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Households and businesses across Scotland are being urged to take action this autumn to ensure water pipes are protected ahead of winter.

Scottish Water states that preparing now will help prevent burst pipes and flooding in freezing temperatures.

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Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, said: "This winter will be difficult enough due to the Covid pandemic and restrictions that we all face.

"I would urge customers not to make it any more difficult for themselves and others by failing to protect their pipes.

"And we can all do our bit to protect the water supply and enable everyone to stay healthy and hygienic at this challenging time."

The key advice is:

  • Heat: Warmth offers the best protection against frozen pipes, so when temperatures are low leave your heating on a low setting, or set it to come on a couple of times a day.
  • Insulate: Pipes don’t like the cold – whether they are outdoor or indoor, metal or plastic, new or old. Making sure pipes and water tanks are properly insulated is one of the simplest, and cheapest, things which can be done to help protect properties from the cold. Make sure that there are no gaps at bends, valves or fitting, and that you use a suitable insulation material.
  • Protect: If you are going away (subject to Covid restrictions), make sure you have someone who can check regularly for any problems. Dripping water increases the risk of freezing, so have any drips or leaks at taps or valves repaired as soon as you discover them, and reduce draughts by fitting draught excluders to doors and windows.

If your home or property is going to be vacant over the winter months, turn off your water supply and drain the system. A licensed plumber will be able to give advice about this.

Also, be a good neighbour and keep an eye out for your neighbours including the elderly and those who might need additional support.

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