RESIDENTS have been urged to lag their water pipes as temperatures continue to drop.

Hafren Dyfrdwy, which serves around 87,000 customers in north and mid-Wales, is asking its customers to insulate unheated water pipes in lofts and to cover external taps to prevent them from bursting in freezing temperatures.

Howard Perry, energy manager at the company, said: “Extreme temperatures can cause huge problems for household water pipes so we’re asking our customers to look after their home’s water pipes.

“Many people don’t realise that as water freezes within a pipe in your house, it expands, putting pressure on joints which can result in splits or bursts.

“Lagging pipes is actually really easy and cheap, and it helps to insulate your pipes, potentially saving thousands of pounds as bursts are not only devastating, but messy and expensive to fix.

“We don’t want people to gamble on it being a mild winter this year, and would encourage them to make their homes even more protected against cold weather.”

Howard added that Hafren Dyfrdwy is helping customers find reliable WaterSafe certified plumbers ahead of the winter months and is providing support to vulnerable customers through a specialised team.

The company has information on its website on how to lag pipes, the key things to look out for, and how to fit external tap guards.

Visit https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/my-services/winter-ready/protect-your-home/