Northumbrian Water tells North East residents to perform vital check to avoid potential devastating expense

Residents in Newcastle and across the North East have been warned to carry out important checks to avoid burst pipes and huge costs this winter by Northumbrian Water.

The water company is urging customers to properly maintain their properties in order to avoid the costs and devastation that can be caused by frozen pipes. According to the Association of British Insurers, a burst pipe could cost on average a whopping £8,800 to fix.

As the colder days start drawing in, there is a greater risk of pipes freezing or bursting – which could not only need a huge investment to fix during the festive period but can leave properties without hot water.

Homeowners are encouraged to familiarise themselves with their stop-tap, so if an emergency hits, they can act quickly and efficiently by isolating the water to their own home.

In the event of frozen pipes, the water company is suggesting that warm towels or hot water bottles should be wrapped around the pipe to help thaw the ice. Hairdryers or pipe lagging can also ease the freeze, however naked flames or blowtorches should never be used.

Colin Day, Head of Service Water Planning at Northumbrian Water, said: “As pennies seem to be tighter than ever before, we really want to make sure that our customers are well-equipped to beat the freeze. As Christmas is around the corner, it is so important for our customers to maintain their pipes to minimise the risk of losing hot running water over the upcoming festive period.

“If customers follow our simple tips, then it will significantly minimise the risk of frozen pipes or bursts.”

Northumbrian Water has also shared tips on how to keep the cost of bills down during the most expensive months of the year. Colin added: “Putting the kettle on is usually one of the first things people do to warm up – so we are encouraging our customers save water, energy and money by only boiling the amount of water needed for their hot drink.

“Swapping a long soak in the bath for a shower is also a good way of keeping bills to a minimum. By showering instead, customers can save up to 30 litres of water each time, and a shorter shower will help to save money on energy bills too, by heating less water.”

In the event of a burst, residents are asked to visit www.watersafe.org.uk or call 0333 207 9030, to find a Water-Safe-approved local plumber.