How to Keep Your Home Warm and Avoid Frozen Pipes This Winter

Tony Hernandez|

How to Keep Your Home Warm and Avoid Frozen Pipes This Winter

As the UK's winter chill sets in, keeping your home warm and safe without overspending is vital. This guide offers practical advice for balancing comfort, efficiency, and cost savings. Along the way, we'll introduce downloadable resources to help you take control of your heating system and prepare for winter's challenges.

Optimal Thermostat Settings

Experts recommend setting your thermostat between 18°C and 20°C for comfort and to prevent freezing pipes. When away or asleep, lower it to 15°C to 17°C to conserve energy while protecting your plumbing. For more insights into troubleshooting common boiler issues and thermostat tips,

Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam insulation to protect pipes in lofts, garages, or external walls.

2. Run Heating Regularly: Even when you're away, periodic heating prevents freezing.

3. Seal Draughts: Properly seal windows and doors to keep out the cold.

4. Locate Your Stopcock: Know how to shut off your water supply in case of a burst pipe.

Energy-Saving Hacks

1. Use Curtains and Rugs: Thick curtains and rugs reduce heat loss and draughts.

2. Service Your Boiler Annually: Ensures efficiency and reduces the risk of breakdowns.

3. Install Smart Thermostats: Optimise heating schedules and save money.

Stay Ahead with Winter Maintenance

Preparation is key to avoiding costly repairs and emergencies. Use our Winter Home Heating Maintenance Checklist to:

• Schedule a boiler service.

• Bleed radiators for maximum efficiency.

• Test carbon monoxide alarms.

• Inspect for draughts.

This checklist will help you stay comfortable and protected all season long.

Be Ready for Emergencies

From frozen pipes to boiler breakdowns, winter emergencies can strike without warning. Stay calm and prepared with our Emergency Plumbing and Heating Action Plan. It includes:

• Steps to handle boiler breakdowns, leaks, or burst pipes.

• What to do if your carbon monoxide alarm activates.

• Quick fixes to minimise damage before help arrives.

This checklist will help you stay comfortable and protected all season long.

Upgrade to Smart Heating

Smart home heating systems offer convenience, efficiency, and cost savings. Whether you're interested in smart thermostats, zone-based heating, or integration with voice assistants, these solutions can transform your home. Learn more in our Smart Home Heating Guide and discover how Advanced Heating & Plumbing can help with installation and support.

Act Now – Keep Your Home Protected!

Don't let winter leave you in the cold or facing unexpected repairs. Whether you need a boiler service, pipe insulation, or smart heating upgrades, we're here to help.

✔ Gas-Safe Registered Engineers

✔ Transparent Pricing—No Hidden Costs

✔ Same-Day Service Across London, Watford, Hertfordshire, and Middlesex

Call 0800 328 0449 to book your winter prep service or message us here

Categories: Heating, How To
Last updated: 17/10/2025

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About the Author

Tony Hernandez - Founder of Advanced Heating & Plumbing
Gas SafeOFTEC

28 Years Experience

Tony Hernandez

Founder of Advanced Heating & Plumbing

With 28 years in the trade since 1998, Tony is a highly respected heating and plumbing authority serving Watford, Hertfordshire, London, and Middlesex. Gas Safe and OFTEC registered with expertise in gas, oil, and electrical systems.

View all articles by Tony