NI Water is urging property owners to know the location of their stop valve and how to turn it off quickly to help safeguard homes and businesses against burst pipes during the winter weather season. 

The reminder comes as the Met Office forecasts a spell of much colder weather over the New Year period, with a possibility of snow showers in some areas.

With temperatures expected to drop below zero in the coming days, NI Water says it’s vitally important to know the exaction location of your stop valve and how to turn it off quickly to prevent significant water damage and costly repairs.

NI Water Education Officer Anna Killen said: “When water freezes inside pipes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst. This not only wastes water but can lead to flooding and damage within your home or business. Prevention is always better than cure; taking a few simple steps to prepare now will give you peace of mind as the cold weather sets in and make all the difference in avoiding disruption to your water supply and unnecessary expense.”

To help protect your pipes and property during the cold spell, NI Water recommends the following simple steps:

• Check your stop valve: Make sure you can locate and operate your stop valve quickly in case of a leak or burst. Most are located under the kitchen sink. Test it now, so you’re prepared – righty-tighty, clockwise!
• Keep your home warm: Maintain a consistent temperature indoors, even in unused rooms, to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Circulate warm air: Leave cupboard doors open under sinks and in utility areas to help warm air reach vulnerable pipes.
• Insulate pipes: Use pipe lagging to provide extra protection against the cold.
• Check your home insurance: Ensure your policy covers damage caused by water leaks or burst pipes.
• Keep a plumber’s contact handy: Have the details of a qualified plumber available for emergencies - you can find a local professional at www.watersafe.org.uk.
• Protect outdoor taps: Fit covers to outside taps to prevent freezing and potential bursts.
• Free resources: NI Water offers free stop valve tags and outdoor tap covers to help customers prepare for winter via a free online water audit at www.getwaterfit.co.uk

For more advice on winter pipe protection, visit www.niwater.com. The website offers step-by-step guides, video tutorials, and details on how to request free resources, ensuring you have everything you need to keep your home safe this winter.

Ends 

Notes to editors

When checking your home is winterproof, why not take the time to check the age of your water supply pipes. For information about how you can find and deal with lead pipes please visit: www.niwater.com/lead-pipes 

Media enquiries to the NI Water Press Office via email to press.office@niwater.com