Why Winter Maintenance Matters in Hampshire
As the nights draw in and the frost settles over fields in Bordon, Alton and Farnham, homeowners across Hampshire know that cold weather brings more than just cosy evenings by the fire. Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing and boiler system. In GU35, GU34 and other GU postcodes, a burst pipe or a failing boiler on a frosty morning can quickly turn into an expensive and disruptive emergency. Here’s a friendly, expert guide to help you stay one step ahead of winter’s worst.
Understanding the Risk of Frozen Pipes
Pipes freeze when water inside them turns to ice and expands. Even a small amount of frozen water creates pressure that can crack or burst metal and plastic pipes. In areas like Haslemere or Petersfield where draughts can sweep through older houses, the risk is even greater. When a pipe bursts, you could be looking at water damage to walls, floors and possessions, and the cost of emergency repairs.
Common High-Risk Areas in Your Home
- Unheated lofts and attics
- Conservation roof conversions in Alton and Farnham
- Understairs laundry or utility rooms
- External walls and garage plumbing
- Leadwork near exposed eaves
Top Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Follow these practical steps and you’ll minimise the chance of freezing, even on the coldest Hampshire nights.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Cover any pipework you can see in lofts, garages or crawl spaces with foam insulation. You can pick up sleeve insulation or pipe lagging from local DIY stores in Bordon or Petersfield. Make sure to measure your pipe diameter accurately—once you’ve fitted the insulation, seal any gaps with duct tape for extra protection.
2. Keep a Consistent Heat
It’s tempting to turn the thermostat right down at night, but a steady low heat is better than a zero setting. Aim for around 12°C in the chilliest rooms. If you’re away for a weekend break in Hampshire, set the heating timer to come on for a couple of hours in the morning and evening. This prevents pipes from lying in freezing conditions for too long.
3. Let the Taps Drip
On really cold nights, allow a trickle of water to run from your kitchen or bathroom taps. Moving water won’t freeze as easily. Just a few millilitres per minute can make a big difference, and the extra water usage is minimal compared to the cost of a burst pipe repair.
4. Open Cupboards and Doors
Heat circulates around your home more freely when you leave cupboard doors open under sinks and in utility rooms. If your kitchen or bathroom is on an outside wall, a small gap can help warm air reach vulnerable pipework.
5. Check Boiler Pressure Regularly
Cold weather can make your boiler work harder, and a drop in pressure is often the first sign of an issue. Keep an eye on the gauge—if it falls below 1 bar, top it up following the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re unsure, our team at Embassy Gas can guide you over the phone or come out for a quick tune-up in GU35 or GU34.
Dealing with Frozen or Burst Pipes
If you suspect a pipe has frozen or burst, act quickly to limit damage. Here’s what to do:
- Shut Off the Water at the stopcock immediately.
- Open All Taps to drain remaining water.
- Thaw Frozen Sections using a hairdryer or warm towels—never use an open flame.
- Check for Leaks once the ice clears. If you see water escaping, call a professional.
Preventing Boiler Breakdowns in Cold Weather
Your boiler is the heart of your home’s heating, especially in chilly Hampshire months. Neglecting it can lead to unexpected failures right when you need warmth most.
6. Book an Annual Service
A professional service from an accredited engineer keeps your boiler running efficiently and safely. We cover all major brands and models, from combi boilers in Alton to system boilers in Haslemere. Early detection of wear and tear can save you from an emergency call-out charge.
7. Bleed Radiators
Cold spots at the top of radiators mean trapped air is reducing efficiency. Use a radiator key to bleed them—just a minute per radiator can restore heat distribution and ease the load on your boiler.
8. Check Pressure Relief Valves
Over-pressurisation can cause leaks or damage to your boiler. If the relief valve is dripping, it might be faulty or the pressure is too high. Our engineers in Petersfield can examine and replace any worn parts.
9. Monitor the Thermostat
A simple room thermostat or smart control helps avoid overheating and wasting gas. If you have an older dial model, consider upgrading to programmable or app-controlled options popular in GU postal areas.
10. Keep the Boiler Area Clear
Don’t store paint tins, clothing or cardboard boxes around your boiler. Proper ventilation is vital, and clutter can block air inlets, causing inefficiency or safety hazards.
When to Call a Professional
If you experience any of the following, it’s time to call a Gas Safe engineer:
- Persistent low or high boiler pressure
- Strange noises, like banging or gurgling
- Visible leaks around pipe joints or valves
- Intermittent heating or hot water
- Sooty marks, pilot light issues or suspected gas smells
Embassy Gas covers every nook of Hampshire, from GU30 through GU35. We pride ourselves on fast response times and a friendly approach—no jargon, just clear advice and reliable workmanship.
Emergency Winter Support
If you wake up to a heating or hot water emergency, our team is here 24/7. We’ll aim to get you warm again before the day really starts to bite. Keep our number handy—you never know when a flurry of frost will send homeowners in Bordon and Alton scrambling for help.
Conclusion
Winter in Hampshire doesn’t have to mean worrying about burst pipes or a cold home. By following these simple steps—insulating pipes, maintaining your boiler, and acting quickly when problems arise—you’ll stay cosy all season long. If you ever need professional advice or emergency support, we’ve got your back.
Ready to protect your home this winter? Contact Embassy Gas today for expert boiler service and plumbing solutions across Hampshire.