A boiler specialist has shed light on the ‘exact temperature’ to heat your home to, if you’re keen to avoid the nightmare of frozen pipes this winter. The expert, at New Boiler Installation Glasgow, encouraged Brits to keep their heating at a consistent setting rather than only cranking it up in the cold.
Somewhere between 18C and 20C was recommended for this, according to the Express, though you might consider lowering it to 10C while out and about. Speaking with the publication, the expert explained: “To avoid frozen pipes, you should set a minimum temperature on your boiler during winter.
“Even when you’re not at home, it’s advisable to keep your thermostat at a minimum of 10C to prevent costly pipe-freezing issues. Modern technology offers an excellent solution in the form of smart thermostats.”
When the mercury drops, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and wreak havoc – cracking or even bursting pipes. In turn, this can unleash a torrent of water indoors, leading to significant damage and expenses.
However, combating this risk goes beyond thermostat settings, as the expert recommended insulating vulnerable pipes too. Pipe lagging and insulation sleeves can be used as part of this, protecting pipes in unheated spaces.
Alex Woods at Victorian Plumbing, also explained: “Frozen pipes can be a real winter worry, causing major disruptions and costly damage if not handled carefully. It might be tempting to pour boiling water on a frozen pipe, but that quick fix can create bigger problems down the line.
“Antifreeze insulation is a cost-effective method to keep pipes from freezing, whether outdoors or in unheated spaces like lofts and basements. To install it, select insulation sleeves or foam tubes that fit your pipes, clean the surface of the pipes, and cut the insulation to length.
“Slide the sleeves on for full coverage, securing them with duct tape or zip ties. Finally, seal any gaps to prevent cold air from reaching the pipes.”
Potential signs of a frozen pipe
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Gurgling sounds from your central heating
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A boiler that won’t start
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Little to no water flow from taps
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Clogged sinks
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Slow-flushing toilets