How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter in Dublin

When temperatures fall in winter, frozen pipes become one of the most common plumbing emergencies across Dublin, South Dublin, and North Wicklow. At Drain Service & Plumbing, our team often gets late-night and weekend emergency callouts for burst pipes and water leaks caused by freezing conditions.

Knowing how to prevent frozen pipes can save you serious water damage and expensive repairs.

Why Do Pipes Freeze and Burst?

Water expands as it freezes, creating pressure inside the pipe. If that pressure has nowhere to go, the pipe can crack or burst. Pipes located in attics, garages, or external walls are most at risk, especially when not properly insulated.

Typical signs of frozen pipes include:

• No running water or reduced flow

• Frost on exposed pipework

• Damp patches or bulging areas

• Gurgling noises coming from your plumbing

  
  

Minimum Temperature to Keep Pipes from Freezing

Pipes usually start freezing at around –6°C, but even milder temperatures can cause problems if the pipework is unprotected.

To reduce the risk:

• Keep your indoor temperature above 10°C, even when you are not home

• Open cupboard doors under sinks to let warm air circulate

• Insulate exposed pipes in lofts, basements, and outer walls

  
  

How to Keep Pipes from Freezing Without Heat

If you are unable to use heating, for example during a power cut or when leaving a holiday property, you can still protect your plumbing:

• Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor taps

• Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation or thermal tape

• Shut off the main water supply if the property will be empty

• Let taps drip slightly to keep water moving inside the system

Protecting Outdoor and Garden Pipes

Outdoor taps and garden water lines are particularly vulnerable. A simple DIY solution is to fit insulated tap covers and wrap any exposed piping. For long-term prevention, gully trap cleaning and rat flap installation can help keep the system free from debris and blockages that worsen freezing.

Will Shutting Off Water Keep Pipes from Freezing?

Shutting off your water supply and draining the system helps prevent freezing if you are leaving for an extended period. However, if you are still living in the property, it is safer to leave the heating on low and keep water flowing gently.

How to Avoid Burst Pipes in Winter

• Insulate all accessible pipes

• Seal cracks that let cold air in

• Service your boiler before winter

• Keep your emergency plumber’s contact details saved

If a pipe bursts, turn off the main water supply immediately and call a professional plumber. Our 24/7 emergency plumbing team in Dublin can quickly stop leaks, repair damage, and restore your water safely.

Do Pipes Freeze If Heat Is Off?

Yes. Pipes can freeze when indoor temperatures stay below freezing for several hours. Even a slightly cold house can be risky. Keeping your heating on a low, consistent setting during cold nights is one of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes.

Emergency Frozen Pipe Repairs in Dublin

At Drain Service & Plumbing, we specialise in fast and effective frozen pipe and burst pipe repairs. Using advanced tools and techniques, we can detect the issue quickly and minimise water damage.

We also offer:

✅ Leak Detection & Pipe Repairs

✅ 24/7 Emergency Plumbing

✅ High-Pressure Drain Jetting

✅ No-Dig Drain & Sewer Repairs

If you suspect frozen pipes or notice a leak, contact your local emergency plumber in Dublin now.

Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ready to help across Dublin, South Dublin, and North Wicklow.

Contact us now