NI Water appeal for help during thaw period.

14 December 2022 14:20

As the thermometer starts to creep up after the recent freezing temperatures NI Water are calling for the public’s help to alert them to burst pipes.

Damage to pipes from periods of freezing weather increases the likelihood of burst pipes both on the NI Water network and within your own property.

Sustained sub-zero temperatures can cause pipes to expand and burst when temperatures start to rise, and frozen pipes begin to thaw.

Brian McCalmont, NI Water’s Head of Water explains:

“We are asking the public to be extra vigilant about bursts on their own property and would appeal to those with empty properties or those that have been closed for a few days, to keep checking them.”

“You are our eyes and ears – if you spot a burst pipe, whether it’s a trickle of water or a gushing pipe, let us know.  You alerting us to this may help us get to it faster and therefore cause less disruption to customers.  You can do this by visiting Report A Leak Northern Ireland Water (niwater.com)  or using our webchat service online at Contact Us - Northern Ireland Water (niwater.com) or on Facebook and Twitter @niwnews.  NI Water also has a dedicated Leakline number, 0800 028 2011, open 24 hours a day, every day. Calls are free of charge. If you spot a burst, we’ll find it and fix it.”

NI Water’s Advice During the Thaw:

• If you are out of water, first check with your neighbours.  If they HAVE water, it is likely that the problem is with your internal pipework.  Call a plumber to have the problem fixed. 

• If your neighbours are WITHOUT water, it could be a burst watermain.  Use the website  Current Service Updates - Northern Ireland Water (niwater.com) or call 03457 440088 to report the problem. 

There are lots of simple things that homes, and businesses can do to prepare: 

• Wrap up pipes and water tanks with lagging – high street DIY stores have everything you need; the thicker the lagging the better the protection;
• Fix dripping taps – even a small trickle can result in a frozen pipe;
• Find your property’s stop valve and make sure you can turn it off – most are under the kitchen sink - if you have one of our stop valve tags, wrap this around it;
• Keep the name of an approved plumber handy – type in your postcode at www.watersafe.org.uk  to find your nearest accredited plumbing business.

If you want a little extra help preparing your home for winter, visit www.getwaterfit.co.uk and type in your postcode to order a FREE winter stop valve tag and flyer.

Visit niwater.com/winter-proof-your-home for further advice on how to protect your property this winter.  

Ends

For further information please contact press.office@niwater.com