Burst pipes are ‘snow’ joke!

17 January 2018 12:19

Now is definitely the time to get the winter woollies out and wrap up warm, just don’t forget about your water pipes!   This is particularly important for schools and businesses who have closed during this current cold snap.

 

Top Tips for businesses who have closed their premises:

 

• Ensure pipes are well insulated.
• Locate your stop valve and make sure all staff know where it is and how to turn it off.
• If you have closed down your business during this cold period, set your heating timer and have someone check the premises regularly. 
• If you have a meter, know where it is and check it regularly.  A higher than normal meter reading can be the first indicator that you may have a leak.
• Consider what you would do if you did lose your water supply for a prolonged period of time.  You need to have a contingency plan, for example some businesses have a storage tank which will provide water for a certain period of time.  
• Have the number of a plumber who knows where your premises is and is prepared to attend at night if needed.  Type in your postcode at www.watersafe.org.uk  to find your nearest accredited plumbing business.
• Make sure you have adequate insurance to cover your property in the event of a burst pipe. 

 

 

Sara Venning, NI Water’s Chief Executive, said: “NI Water is prepared for the snow and ice, we have teams and measures in place should we need them however, everyone has a role to play to ensure that the water continues to flow freely through our pipes all winter long.

 

“The devastation caused by burst pipes cannot be underestimated.  Water can cause structural damage to a property, which can take months to repair, resulting in businesses or schools having to close for lengthy periods of time.  Your water bill is also likely to be higher.

“On a wider scale, if you imagine the impact of thousands of litres of water pouring out of burst water pipes; any water distribution network would struggle to maintain continuity of supply in those circumstances.  Insulating your pipework is an essential action to protect your water supply and that of your neighbours.”

 

What to do if you have a burst pipe:

• Turn off your stop valve (turn it clockwise)
• Phone your plumber
• Phone your insurance company

Further Information & Advice

 

Ends

All media enquiries to NI Water Press Office on 028 9035 4710 or email press.office@niwater.com