Uisce Éireann Issues Winter Pipe Protection Advice as First Frosts Approach

With temperatures set to drop and the first frosts of winter expected this week, Uisce Éireann is urging householders to take simple steps now to avoid the inconvenience and expense of burst pipes and water outages during cold weather.

Water expands by nearly 10% when frozen, which can cause even new pipes to split, leading to leaks and flooding that could prove costly for homeowners and businesses alike.

The utility company has outlined six key steps to stay winter ready: insulate exposed pipes and water tanks with lagging material, fix dripping taps before they freeze and block pipes, service your boiler to maintain efficiency and reduce energy costs, locate your stop valve so you can turn off water quickly in an emergency, minimise draughts that allow cold air to freeze internal pipes, and sign up for Uisce Éireann's free text alert service at water.ie.

Margaret Attridge, Uisce Éireann's head of water operations, said:

"We know from previous winters that freezing conditions can cause significant disruption for homes and businesses across the country. By taking simple steps now, like insulating pipes and checking stop valves, you can prevent costly damage and help keep water flowing for everyone. Our crews are ready to respond, but prevention is always better than cure."

Ms Attridge also cautioned against leaving taps running, a common misconception about preventing frozen pipes.

"We also recommend that people don't run taps continually as this is not an effective way of preventing frozen pipes and can cause other problems such as frozen drains. It also puts further pressure on water supplies that may already be challenged by the freezing conditions."

Businesses are advised to protect outdoor and exposed plumbing, monitor vacant premises by shutting off water supply where possible, and ensure keyholders know how to turn off water in case of emergency.

Vulnerable customers with medical or mobility needs can register for priority assistance during outages through the Priority Services Register.

Step-by-step guidance and videos on protecting your home are available at water.ie/winterproofing. Customers can sign up for free text alerts using their Eircode and mobile number, or contact the 24/7 customer care helpline on 1800 278 278.