Frozen pipe warning

Jan 24 2013 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

West Lothian householders are being urged to protect their homes to avoid burst pipes during cold weather.

With the arrival of freezing temperatures Scottish Water are reminding people to ensure they follow their winter code whether, it is their home, a holiday home or business premises.

Scottish Water’s winter campaign is advising people what steps to take to help prevent a burst or frozen pipe, how to locate their stop valve, what to do in an emergency and how Scottish Water can help.

The winter code includes: heat, insulate and protect pipes; leave heating on at a low setting; ask someone to check your property for any problems and leave details of how to contact you in an emergency.

If your property is going to be vacant turn off your water supply and drain the system.

A licensed plumber should be able to advise you about this.

Keep your insurance documents somewhere secure and water-tight so you can access them easily if needed.

They also advise that householders locate their stop valve, keep a note of the telephone number of a licensed plumber and keep a note of the Scottish Water customer helpline number – 0845 601 8855.

The company are also urging people to keep an eye out for neighbours, especially the frail and elderly or disabled, to ensure they are not experiencing any problems.

While homeowners represent the biggest target audience, the campaign also focuses on the need for businesses, landlords and holiday homeowners to safeguard their properties.

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s customer service delivery director, said a few simple steps can prevent major problems.

He said: “Customers who take action to heat, insulate and protect their properties can avoid considerable headache and heartache.

“Our winter campaign aims to inform our customers, homeowners and businesses about the importance of protecting their pipes to avoid the hardships that so many experienced two winters ago.

“Unfortunately many customers found out in the winter of 2010-11 that the real problems start when temperatures begin to rise again after such a cold snap.

“This can lead to pipes expanding and bursting.

“Very often people think it won’t happen to them but there are few things more upsetting than coming home or into work to find everything ankle-deep in freezing water and your carpets, furniture and equipment all ruined because of a burst pipe.”