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Guernsey Water is asking customers to take particular care of their pipework, oil tanks and drainage during the winter months, to avoid problems from the harsher weather.
Despite experiencing higher than normal temperatures this autumn, winter is just around the corner and temperatures are likely to start dropping.
At this time of year, it is common for problems to arise if customers are not taking the proper precautions. Islanders are advised to insulate pipework and outside taps, check oil tanks and catchment pits for leaks and prevent flooding by turning off internal stop taps if leaving properties empty for a long period of time over winter.
Stephen Langlois, Director of Water Services said: “Winter care is essential to prevent damage to pipework and oil tanks that may be caused by colder temperatures or heavy rainfall. When the temperature drops, water in pipes can freeze and expand; this damages the pipework and leads to cracks and potential flooding.
“Heavy rainfall can also affect the oil tank catchment pits that can lead to oil overflows which could potentially pollute the water supply and are very difficult to remove.”
When carrying out maintenance on gardens; cuttings and other vegetation should also be cleared and disposed of properly to prevent blocking the main road gullies and drains.
“We would also advise customers to keep their private drains and gutters clear of vegetation to ensure rainwater is able to drain away and therefore prevent standing water or flooding.
“Now is the time that businesses and homeowners should be preparing their properties by testing their pipes, drains and guttering and putting in protective measures ahead of winter.”
Any collection systems such as water butts will be more effective if drained to allow more storage capacity.
Guernsey Water has created a Winter Care information leaflet which can be downloaded from the website at http://www.water.gg/your-water/water-in-your-home
