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Category: Tips

  • How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter

    Frozen pipes are one of the most common — and most expensive — winter plumbing problems. A single burst pipe can cause thousands of pounds in water damage. Here’s how to protect your home.

    Insulate Exposed Pipes

    Pipes in unheated areas like lofts, garages, and exterior walls are most vulnerable. Foam pipe lagging is inexpensive and easy to install — and could save you thousands.

    Keep Your Heating On Low

    During cold snaps, keep your heating running at a low temperature (at least 12°C) even when you’re out. This is far cheaper than repairing burst pipes.

    Know Your Stopcock Location

    If a pipe does burst, you need to turn off your water supply fast. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the stopcock is and how to operate it.

    Fix Dripping Taps

    A dripping tap in a cold area can create an ice blockage in the pipe behind it. Get dripping taps repaired before the cold weather arrives.

    Open Loft Hatches Occasionally

    Letting warm air circulate into your loft can prevent the pipes up there from freezing. Opening the hatch for a few hours during very cold days makes a real difference.

    Need help preparing your plumbing for winter? Book a winter check with AquaFlow today.

  • 5 Signs You Need Emergency Plumbing Help

    Not every plumbing issue is an emergency, but some situations require immediate professional attention. Here are five warning signs that mean you should call a plumber right away.

    1. Water Is Flooding Your Property

    If water is actively flowing where it shouldn’t be — from a burst pipe, overflowing cistern, or failed appliance — turn off your stopcock immediately and call an emergency plumber.

    2. You Can Smell Gas

    A gas smell near your boiler or gas appliances is serious. Open windows, don’t use any switches or flames, leave the property, and call the National Gas Emergency line (0800 111 999) followed by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

    3. Your Drains Are Backing Up

    When multiple drains back up simultaneously, it usually indicates a main drain blockage. This can quickly lead to sewage overflow if not addressed promptly.

    4. No Hot Water in Winter

    Losing hot water during freezing conditions can mean frozen or burst pipes. Acting quickly can prevent significant water damage to your property.

    5. Persistent Low Water Pressure

    A sudden drop in water pressure across your property could signal a hidden leak. This needs investigation before it causes structural damage.

    If you’re experiencing any of these issues, contact AquaFlow for rapid emergency response across London.