Guernsey Water is encouraging Islanders to protect their plumbing at home and work as temperatures become cooler.
The utility is issuing advice to customers to make the necessary precautions as both the Island’s network and private properties become more susceptible to leaks and bursts due to lower temperatures, heavy rainfall and natural ground movement.
Islanders are being asked to insulate pipes and outside taps, to help prevent leaks and bursts as well as ensuring internal stop taps are turned off if properties are empty over winter.
Jon Holt, Operations Manager at Guernsey Water, said: “Winter care is essential to prevent damage to pipework that may be caused by colder temperatures or heavy rainfall which causes ground movement. When the temperature drops, water in pipes can freeze and expand; this can cause pipes to fracture or force joints to part. We are recommending Islanders ensure they are winter ready by taking precautions to reduce the risk of bursts, leaks and potential flood damage.”
Although the utility does not carry out work on private properties, Guernsey Water’s Distribution team works across the Island to repair mains bursts and leaks, of which they see an increase in through winter months.
Jon added that knowing the location of internal stopcocks and checking they’re in working order can allow islanders to ensure they are able to shut off their water quickly and help protect properties from sustaining flood damage should they experience a burst or leak.
- Ensure all external pipework and pipework in cold or draughty spaces like roof spaces, outbuildings and garages is insulated or lagged. Pipe lagging can be found in most hardware stores. If you are caught short ahead of a cold spell, using a towel or similar can also help to reduce your risk of a leak or burst! Ensure the towel does not get wet as this will reduce its effectiveness.
- Fix any dripping taps or overflows to avoid the water freezing and blocking pipes.
- Locate and check that your internal stop tap / stopcock is working. You can do this by turning it off and checking the water to your cold tap stops. Make sure you turn it back on to reinstate your water supply! If your stop tap / stopcock is not working, it is best to employ a plumber to repair or replace it. If a pipe bursts inside your house, a working stopcock will allow you to turn off your water supply to avoid loss of water and help limit damage to your home.
- Ensure that your central heating system is serviced regularly.
- Keep your plumber’s contact details handy in case of an emergency.
- Ensure that any water storage tank in your roof space is adequately insulated.
If you are in Guernsey and experience a leak or burst and are unable to turn off your water, please contact Guernsey Water on (01481) 229500 to turn off your supply from the road. You will then need to contact a plumber in order to carry out repairs.
Are you going on holiday?
As a precaution it is always worth turning off your internal stopcock to avoid damage to your property and loss of water if a leak or burst does occur whilst your property is vacant.
