Stop Frozen Pipes This Winter: Cardiff Cold-Snap Checklist

Cardiff winters are mild until they suddenly aren't. A few hours below freezing is all it takes to split a pipe in a loft or an unheated outbuilding.

Prevention that actually works - Lag every pipe in the loft, garage and under suspended floors - Insulate the condensate pipe outside, or have it re-routed internally - Leave the heating on a low background temperature rather than off - Fit and use an outside tap isolator before the first frost - Know where your stopcock is and check it actually turns

If you're leaving the property empty Set the thermostat to around 12–14°C, open the loft hatch slightly to let warm air up, and ask a neighbour to check in. For longer absences, drain the system down.

If a pipe has already frozen Turn the water off at the stopcock first, in case the pipe has split. Thaw gently with warm cloths or a hairdryer on low, starting nearest the tap and working back. Never use a blowtorch or boiling water.

If it's split Water off, electrics off if it's near cabling, then call us. Frozen and split pipes are one of our most common winter emergency call-outs in Cardiff.

24/7 emergency plumbing in Cardiff: 07545 125168.