October in Berkshire is a beautiful time - crisp mornings, golden leaves, and the comforting return of warm jumpers and hot drinks. But as the temperature begins to dip, so does the resilience of your outdoor plumbing.
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Frost may seem harmless on the surface, but for exposed taps and pipework, it can be a silent saboteur.
Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of winter plumbing emergencies. When water freezes, it expands - and that expansion can crack pipes, split fittings, and cause leaks that go unnoticed until the thaw. For outdoor taps, which are often left unprotected, the risk is even greater. A single cold snap can turn a small oversight into a costly repair.
At Clogzilla, we're passionate about helping homeowners protect what matters most - and that starts with smart, seasonal steps. This guide is designed to help you winter-proof your outdoor plumbing before the first frost hits. From insulation tips to hose care and professional check-ups, we'll walk you through five simple ways to keep your taps safe, your pipes intact, and your home worry-free.
5 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes
1. Understand the Risk
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Water expands when frozen, putting pressure on pipes and fittings.
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Even a small crack can lead to major leaks once the ice thaws.
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Outdoor taps are often uninsulated and exposed to the elements.
2. Insulate Your Taps
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Use purpose‑made tap covers from your local hardware store.
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Or wrap the tap in foam pipe lagging and secure with waterproof tape.
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Make sure the insulation is snug and covers all exposed metal.
3. Disconnect Garden Hoses
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Remove hoses from outdoor taps before the first frost.
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Drain them fully and store indoors to prevent cracking.
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Leaving hoses connected traps water in the tap - a common cause of freezing.
4. Lag External Pipework
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Fit foam sleeves to any exposed pipes feeding your outdoor tap.
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Seal gaps with waterproof tape to keep out cold air and moisture.
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Check for signs of wear or previous frost damage.
5. Book a Seasonal Plumbing MOT
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A quick inspection from a professional plumber can catch hidden risks.
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Combine tap protection with gutter cleaning and stopcock checks.
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Clogzilla offers affordable autumn call‑outs with no pressure and no upselling
Conclusion
Protecting your outdoor plumbing doesn't have to be complicated - and it shouldn't be expensive. With a few simple steps, you can prevent frozen pipes, avoid costly repairs, and enjoy a worry‑free winter. And if you'd rather leave it to the pros, Clogzilla is here to help with friendly service and practical advice that puts your home first.
