Problems with frozen water pipes

If water stops flowing in your home during very cold weather, you may have a frozen pipe.

United Utilities say it often happens where the supply pipe enters the house. This is usually near the stop tap, which is often under the kitchen sink.

Unfortunately, United Utilities can't fix this. But there are simple steps to gently defrost the pipe and get the water moving again.

  • Turn off your stop tap, usually found under your kitchen sink.
  • Turn on your cold tap in the kitchen.
  • Use a warm towel or hot water bottle to gently warm the pipe on each side of the stop tap. Depending on how frozen your pipes are, this could take several hours.
  • Turn your stop tap back on. Then, check if the water is running from the kitchen tap. Look for any leaks in the pipework, as the pipe might have burst.
  • If the pipe bursts, you must turn off the stop tap again and call a plumber.

If this doesn't work and you still have no water, there may be a problem with the water supply in the street outside.

Check the United Utilities website to see if there are any issues in your area or call United Utilities on 03456 723 723.

Winter proof your home

Advice from United Utilities on how to winterproof your home

Make sure you know where your stop tap is and check that it works. It’s usually under the kitchen sink but can also be in garages or cellars.

Keep your plumber's contact details handy. Or, check if your home or business insurance covers water pipe leaks or bursts.

Insulate outside pipes and those in the garage or loft. This will save heat from hot water pipes and cut your energy bills.

Protect outside taps with an insulated cover

Priority Services Scheme

United Utilities has a Priority Services scheme. It helps customers who are elderly, unwell, disabled, or have mental health issues. It also helps customers with financial worries or language barriers.