Pipes won’t freeze with plumber’s ‘ideal temperature’ – don’t ‘crank up the heating’

Ice and snow warnings are in place across the UK and the coldest nights of winter are predicted for this week.

Each winter, households struggle with frozen or burst pipes, which occur when water inside them expands due to ice-cold temperatures.

Pipes that are not insulated, aren’t maintained or are exposed to cold weather like outdoor pipes or in basements are also more likely to freeze.

With this in mind, has partnered with  and homeownership experts to give advice on how to avoid either internal or external damage – and what heating checks you need to make.

David Doran,  at , says that while it’s “tempting to crank up the heating on especially chilly days,” there’s one setting you should put the thermostat to.

He recommends the ideal temperature to be between 18C and 20C.

Setting the thermostat to a minimum of 18C helps keep the pipes warm and ensures it’s not too low to prevent your pipes from freezing, according to the expert.

Many modern central heating systems have a “frost protection” mode, which keeps your home above freezing while using minimal energy.

If you’re planning to be away during the winter or cutting back on heating use, David also advises you to avoid turning the heating off entirely.

When sleeping or when the house is empty, it’s recommended to lower the temperature to around 15-17C (59-63F).

This further saves energy while still preventing the house from getting too cold. Alternatively, you can schedule regular heating intervals throughout the day to ensure pipes remain warm and reduce the risk of freezing.

How to prevent burst pipes

Insulate your pipes

To prevent burst pipes and expensive water damage, insulate your pipes—especially outdoor ones—before temperatures drop. Look for insulating materials (also called lagging) that are at least 5mm thick.

Insulate all exposed or vulnerable pipes, especially in areas like the roof space, loft, or anywhere prone to extreme cold. This added protection reduces the risk of freezing and bursting.

You can add insulation to pipes and faucets using DIY kits, or if you’re unsure, hire a professional plumber to handle it safely and effectively. 

, director and editor at , recommends using “UL-listed heat tape or foam rubber insulation to prevent freezing.”

Service boiler regularly

Ensure your boiler is  to keep it in optimal working condition, which helps maintain consistent heating throughout your home. David recommends having your boiler serviced annually to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Regular servicing checks for leaks, blockages, and safe device functionality, preventing issues like gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning.

It also improves efficiency and saves on energy bills, while many warranties and insurance policies also require annual servicing.

Locate the stopcock in case of leaks

The stopcock is your water supply’s shut-off valve; it’s crucial if you’re dealing with a cracked pipe to prevent water damage.

It’s usually located under the sink but could also be in the bathroom, hall, or basement. If you’re unsure where yours is, take time to find it now—it’s smart preparation for an emergency. When needed, turn it clockwise to stop the water flow.

Angela said: “If cold weather causes a burst pipe, you need to know how to turn off your water supply quickly. So you’ll need to know where your stopcock is. It’s usually found under the kitchen sink.”

Taking action early can prevent disasters, but if you’re facing an urgent issue, contact a  for assistance.