When the temperature drops, frozen pipes can quickly become a nightmare for homeowners and businesses alike. If you live in or around Lancing, having reliable plumbing services in Lancing can make all the difference in preventing costly damage. At NJ Lees Plumbing & Heating, our expert engineers understand how to protect your plumbing system from harsh winter conditions and keep everything running smoothly throughout the year.
Every winter, countless households face bursts, leaks, and water damage caused by frozen water lines. But with a little preparation and the right professional advice, you can avoid these issues entirely.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Pipes freeze when the water inside them is exposed to extremely cold temperatures, usually below 0°C. When water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the pipe walls. This pressure is what causes pipes to crack or burst, leading to significant water damage once the ice thaws and water begins to flow again.
Outdoor pipes, those located in unheated areas such as lofts, garages, or crawl spaces, and pipes that run along external walls are particularly vulnerable to freezing conditions. Understanding where your plumbing system is most exposed is the first step in learning how to stop pipes freezing.
How to Stop Pipes Freezing
Preventing frozen pipes is all about insulation, maintenance, and temperature control. The following steps to safeguard your home or business plumbing:
- Insulate exposed pipes: Wrap foam insulation around pipes in basements, attics, and garages to protect them from cold air.
- Seal drafts: Check for gaps or cracks near windows, doors, and wall openings where cold air could enter and make pipes more susceptible to freezing.
- Keep the heat consistent: Maintain a steady indoor temperature, even when you’re away from home, to prevent internal pipes from dropping below freezing.
- Let faucets drip: Allowing a slight trickle of water through taps connected to vulnerable pipes helps relieve pressure and keeps water moving.
- Service your heating system: Schedule regular maintenance to ensure your boiler and heating work efficiently—your home’s warmth depends on it. You can learn more in our post Don’t Skip Your Annual Boiler Service.
Professional Plumbing Support in Lancing
Sometimes even with the best preparation, extreme weather can still cause unexpected pipe issues. When this happens, it’s important to have a trusted plumber on hand. At NJ Lees Plumbing & Heating, we provide quick, dependable repairs and maintenance services throughout Lancing and the surrounding areas.
Our experienced technicians handle everything from emergency pipe repairs and leak detection to heating services and air conditioning maintenance. If your home or business has combined plumbing and air systems, regular air conditioning servicing in Lancing is also vital to maintaining balanced indoor temperatures that help reduce the risk of frozen pipework.
Winter Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Beyond insulation and heating, consistent routine maintenance keeps your plumbing healthy throughout the year. Here are a few practical tips:
- Drain outdoor faucets: Turn off and drain garden hoses and exterior taps before freezing weather arrives.
- Check your stopcock: Make sure it’s working properly and you know where to locate it in case of an emergency.
- Flush regularly: If you’re away for long periods, have someone run your taps occasionally to prevent stagnant water from freezing inside pipes.
- Inspect insulation: Replace worn or inadequate insulation on exposed pipes to improve energy efficiency and freeze protection.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice reduced water flow, frosty pipe surfaces, or damp patches on walls and ceilings, it may indicate that your pipes are beginning to freeze or have already burst. In such cases, avoid using the water system and contact a qualified plumber immediately. Prompt action can minimise water damage and prevent expensive repairs.
Our certified team at NJ Lees can quickly locate frozen sections, safely thaw the pipes, and apply long-term solutions to help you avoid future problems. We also offer comprehensive maintenance plans that cover both heating and plumbing systems to ensure your home stays protected through every season.
Final Thoughts
Frozen pipes can cause serious disruption and costly repairs, but with proper preparation and the right professional support, you can easily prevent them. Learning how to stop pipes freezing helps you protect your property and maintain peace of mind all winter long.
If you’re worried about pipe insulation, winter plumbing checks, or need emergency help, don’t wait until problems arise — contact us today to schedule a visit or get in touch with NJ Lees Plumbing & Heating for expert advice on how to keep your water system safe this winter.