How to avoid burst pipes and blocked drains in your home

Burst pipes and blocked drains are two of the most common and costly, plumbing problems UK homeowners face, especially during colder months. Frozen pipes can crack or split, while blocked drains can lead to flooding, bad smells, and damage to your property.

However the good news is that most of these issues are preventable with a little forward planning and regular maintenance.

Why do pipes burst?

Pipes usually burst when water inside them freezes. As water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the pipe walls. Eventually, the pipe can crack or split - often without you noticing until the ice thaws and water starts leaking.

Pipes most at risk include:

• External pipes

• Pipes in lofts, garages, and outbuildings

• Pipes in unheated or poorly insulated areas

• Older plumbing systems

A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in a short amount of time, affecting walls, ceilings, floors, and electrics.

How to prevent frozen and burst pipes

1. Insulate exposed pipes

Pipe insulation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent freezing. Foam pipe lagging is inexpensive, easy to fit, and widely available.

Focus on:

• Loft pipework

• Garage and outbuilding pipes

• Pipes near external walls

Insulation helps maintain water temperature and reduces the risk of freezing during cold spells.

2. Keep your home warm

Even if you’re not at home, keep your heating on low during winter. A consistent temperature helps protect internal pipework.

If you’re going away:

• Set the thermostat to around 12–15°C

• Open cupboard doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate

3. Know where your stopcock is

If a pipe does burst, shutting off the water quickly can prevent major damage. Make sure you know where your main stopcock is and that it turns easily. It’s also worth showing everyone in the household how to use it.

4. Drain outdoor pipes

Before winter:

• Turn off outdoor taps

• Drain garden hoses

• Isolate and empty pipes feeding outdoor water supplies

This prevents standing water from freezing and damaging pipework.

5. Fix small issues early

A slow drip, low water pressure, or rattling pipes could indicate a developing problem. Addressing minor plumbing issues early can help prevent sudden failures later.

What causes blocked drains?

Blocked drains usually develop gradually, caused by a build-up of everyday waste. Common causes include:

• Fat, oil, and grease poured down sinks

• Food waste

• Hair and soap residue

• Wet wipes and sanitary products

• Leaves and debris in external drains

Cold weather can make blockages worse, as fats solidify more quickly and debris is washed into drains during heavy rain.

How to avoid blocked drains

1. Never pour fat or grease down the sink

Cooking oils and fats may be liquid when warm, but they quickly cool and solidify in pipes, creating stubborn blockages.

Instead:

• Let fats cool and dispose of them in the bin

• Wipe greasy pans with kitchen roll before washing

2. Use drain guards

Drain guards or strainers catch hair, food scraps, and debris before they enter your pipes. They’re inexpensive and highly effective, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

3. Be careful what you flush

Only flush the “three Ps”:

• Pee

• Poo

• (Toilet) Paper

Items like wipes, cotton pads, nappies, and sanitary products should always go in the bin - even if they’re labelled “flushable”.

4. Keep external drains clear

Regularly check outside drains and gutters, especially in autumn and winter. Remove:

• Leaves

• Moss

• Dirt and debris

Blocked external drains can cause water to back up and lead to flooding around your property.

5. Flush drains regularly

Running hot water down sinks weekly can help keep pipes clear. For kitchen drains, occasional use of hot water and washing-up liquid can help break down grease before it builds up.

Avoid harsh chemical cleaners where possible, as they can damage pipework over time.

Warning signs to watch out for

Catching problems early can save you money and stress. Look out for:

• Slow-draining sinks or baths

• Gurgling noises from pipes

• Bad smells from drains

• Damp patches or water stains

• Reduced water pressure

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to investigate sooner rather than later.

What to do if a pipe bursts or a drain blocks

If you experience a burst pipe:

1. Turn off the water at the stopcock

2. Switch off electrics if water is near sockets or lights

3. Catch leaking water with buckets or towels

4. Call a professional as soon as possible

For blocked drains:

• Stop using water immediately

• Avoid forcing blockages further down

• Seek professional help if plunging or basic clearing doesn’t work

Burst pipes and blocked drains can cause serious disruption, but they’re often preventable with simple steps and regular maintenance. Insulating pipes, being mindful of what goes down your drains, and acting quickly when you spot early warning signs can help protect your home all year round.

How do burst pipes happen in winter?

Burst pipes usually occur when temperatures drop below freezing. Water inside pipes freezes, expands, and puts pressure on the pipe walls, causing them to crack or burst once the ice thaws.

How can I prevent pipes from freezing?

You can prevent frozen pipes by insulating exposed pipework, keeping your heating on at a low temperature, sealing draughts, and letting taps drip slightly during very cold weather.

Which pipes are most at risk of freezing?

Pipes located in lofts, garages, basements, external walls, and outdoor taps are most vulnerable to freezing and bursting during winter.

What should I do if a pipe bursts?

If a pipe bursts, turn off the water supply immediately, switch off the heating, and drain the system by opening taps. Then contact an emergency plumber as soon as possible.

What causes blocked drains in winter?

Blocked drains are often caused by grease, food waste, wet wipes, leaves, ice, and debris building up inside pipes, especially when cold weather slows water flow.

How can I stop drains from blocking in cold weather?

Avoid pouring fats and oils down sinks, use drain guards, clear leaves from external drains, and flush pipes with hot water regularly to keep them flowing.

Are blocked drains worse in winter?

Yes. Cold temperatures can cause grease to harden, leaves to accumulate, and ice to form in pipes, increasing the risk of blockages and slow drainage.

When should I call a professional plumber?

If you notice slow drainage, gurgling sounds, bad smells, frozen pipes, or visible leaks, it’s best to call a professional before the problem worsens.