Overview
- Southern Water issued a precautionary advisory on December 31 ahead of several days of subfreezing weather expected to bring frost and ice.
- Damian Crawford, the utility’s head of operational control, said shifting ground during freeze–thaw cycles can stress mains, and frozen household pipes can crack and leak as they thaw.
- The company’s 10 recommended steps include insulating pipes and water tanks, locating the stop tap, disconnecting hosepipes, bleeding radiators, and leaving heating on low when away.
- Additional guidance urges servicing boilers, repairing dripping taps, clearing gutters and drains, and improving home insulation to reduce risk and costs.
- Customers with additional needs are encouraged to join the priority services register, and suspected leaks can be reported to Southern Water on 0330 303 0119.