Overview
- The advisory follows a week of plunging temperatures with Met Office snow and ice warnings in force across the UK.
- Boiling water can soften or warp PVC pipes, weaken adhesive joints, and degrade rubber seals, creating hidden leaks or sudden failures.
- Cold weather increases the risk because pipes contract and heavier indoor water use adds strain to vulnerable sections.
- Hot water rarely dissolves thick grease or soap build-ups, can push clogs deeper into the system, and may react dangerously with chemical drain cleaners.
- Safer options include hot tap water, a sink plunger, a drain snake or auger, and a baking soda and vinegar treatment followed by a hot-water rinse.