How To Prevent Burst Pipes During Cold Weather
Cold weather can cause major problems for homeowners — and one of the most serious is a burst pipe. When temperatures drop, water inside your pipes can freeze, expand and eventually split the pipe, leading to flooding, lost heating, and expensive repairs.
While Southampton doesn’t experience extreme winter temperatures compared to other parts of the UK, cold snaps still happen, and burst pipes become one of the most common emergency callouts we receive.
Here’s how to protect your home and reduce the risk of costly damage this winter.
Why Pipes Burst in Cold Weather
When the water inside your pipes freezes, it expands. This puts pressure on the pipe walls and joints until something gives. Even a tiny split can release litres of water within minutes once the ice thaws.
Pipes most at risk are usually those in:
- Unheated lofts
- Garages and outbuildings
- Under-sink cupboards
- External walls
- Poorly insulated areas in older Southampton homes
The good news is that most burst-pipe emergencies can be avoided with a little preparation.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Any pipe exposed to cold air is at risk. Insulating them is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent freezing.
Focus on areas such as:
- Loft spaces
- Behind kitchen units
- Basements
- Garages
- External pipework
Foam lagging is inexpensive and quick to install — and it makes a huge difference.
2. Keep Heating on Low During Cold Snaps
Setting your heating to a low, consistent temperature helps prevent pipes from dropping below freezing point. Even when you’re away, keeping the heating on a low setting (around 12–15°C) is usually enough to protect your plumbing.
This is especially important in older Southampton homes where pipes run close to cold external walls.
3. Open Cupboards to Improve Airflow
Pipes under sinks and in cupboards can become cold quickly because warm air from your heating system doesn’t reach them.
Opening doors to under-sink cabinets or utility cupboards during cold spells helps warm air circulate and reduce the risk of freezing.
4. Fix Dripping Taps and Leaks Early
A dripping tap or small leak may seem minor, but it increases the chance of the connected pipe freezing. Any tiny trickle of water that remains sitting in the pipe is far more likely to freeze solid overnight.
If you notice a leaking joint, dripping tap or pipework issue, get it fixed before temperatures drop.
5. Know Where Your Stopcock Is
If a pipe bursts, the very first thing you need to do is turn off your water supply.
This prevents further flooding and helps protect your home from major damage.
Most stopcocks in Southampton homes can be found:
- Under the kitchen sink
- In utility rooms
- Near the front door
- In basements or under-stair cupboards
Make sure everyone in your home knows where it is and how to use it.
6. Protect Outdoor Pipes & Taps
Garden taps and outdoor pipework are the most exposed to freezing temperatures.
To protect them:
- Fit an insulated tap cover
- Lag any visible pipework
- Drain water from hoses and outside systems over winter
Even a single frozen outdoor tap can back up into your internal plumbing.
7. Be Extra Careful in Southampton Flats
Flats often have shared risers, roof spaces and communal pipework. If one section freezes, it can affect several properties.
If you live in a flat, you should:
- Report draughty communal areas to your building manager
- Keep kitchen and bathroom doors open during cold spells
- Insulate any pipework in airing cupboards or loft hatches
A burst pipe in a flat can damage multiple homes — prevention is essential.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you turn on a tap and no water comes out, a pipe may be frozen. Here’s what to do:
- Turn off the mains water at the stopcock.
- Open nearby taps to release pressure.
- Gently warm the pipe using a hairdryer or warm towels — never use a naked flame.
- Call a professional plumber if you’re unsure or if the pipe has already split.
Trying to force water through a frozen pipe is likely to make the problem worse.
If a Pipe Bursts — Act Fast
A burst pipe can release hundreds of litres of water in minutes. The sooner you act, the less damage you’ll face:
- Turn off the main water supply
- Switch off electrics if water is near sockets or lights
- Drain the system by running taps
- Call an emergency plumber immediately
We deal with burst pipes across Southampton frequently — fast action makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Most burst-pipe emergencies are avoidable with a bit of preparation. Insulation, heating awareness and early maintenance go a long way towards protecting your home during cold weather.
And if something does go wrong, we’re here to help.
Need Help Protecting Your Pipes or Dealing With a Leak?
Our Southampton plumbers offer fast, reliable support — whether it’s prevention advice or emergency repairs.