Overview
- Forecasts of subzero temperatures after a record-mild December raise the risk of frozen condensate and water pipes across the UK.
- Frozen pipes are expected to drive most emergency callouts, especially the external condensate pipe on modern boilers.
- Households are advised to thaw affected pipes by gently applying hot water or a hot water bottle, then reset the boiler.
- If a burst is suspected, residents should shut off the stopcock immediately, open taps to drain the system, and wait for a qualified engineer.
- British Gas cites more than 1.2 million heating and hot-water callouts last winter and urges prevention such as pipe insulation, draught-proofing, maintaining 18–21°C indoors, using smart thermostats, and checking eligibility for its Energy Support Fund.