They emphasize that taking preventative measures can help avoid the hassle and damage.
Some of these leaks are due to natural ground movement and not preventable by homeowners. However, they have offered some steps people can take to protect their private pipes from cold temperatures.
This includes insulating exposed pipes and ensuring stopcocks are working, to allow you to shut off water supply in case of a leak. They also encourage anyone to visit Guernsey Water’s website for self-help videos on checking stopcocks and lagging pipes. You can find that online here.
Jon Holt, Operations Manager at Guernsey Water, said: “A cold snap can cause a significant increase in leaks and bursts on private pipework, causing damage and disruption to homes and businesses. Our data from March 2018, when temperatures fell to -2.1c, shows that in one day over five million litres of water was lost above the seasonal average for the last five years as a result of leaks and bursts.
“We are once again sharing these tips with islanders to help prevent loss of water, water damage, and the general hassle that comes with a leak or burst at home or at work.”