13 January 2010
As parts of the North West start to thaw, we are urging the public to report water leaks.
A slight thaw comes to some towns and villages across the region, we are keen to repair leaks as quickly as possible, to keep the taps flowing.
We have drafted in dozens of extra leak detection teams, as our call centre managed up to 7,200 calls a day from worried customers across its region - ten times more than on a normal winter day.
Scott Beard, Regional Water Network Manager for UU said: "As the thaw starts we would appeal to the general public to call us on 0800 33 00 33 and report any water leaks in the street or if they are experiencing low water pressure at home.
"Often low water pressure at home, especially if your neighbours are experiencing similar problems, might point to a local water main leaking.
"Icy roads and snow showers continue to hamper our engineers attending parts of the North West," said Mr Beard, "but all reports of leaks will be responded to within 24-hours."
Today (Wednesday) a fresh band of wintry weather hit the Cheshire and Liverpool areas prompting more calls to report frozen pipes in homes.
Weather forecasters say the arctic conditions were not here to stay, and temperatures are due to rise to the North West seasonal average of 7C (45F) by the end of the week.
Customer calls also included enquiries about how to get their 'hot' water working again, but we have warned frozen pipes can lead to leaks. We're offering the following advice to customers whose own internal pipes are frozen:
- Thawing your pipes can take some time but it is possible to help yourself.
- First, locate your main stop tap. It is usually under the kitchen sink or in a utility room closest to where the water supply enters your property.
- Apply a hot water bottle to the pipe or use a hairdryer in short bursts.
- Please note you should never use a naked flame near the pipes.
- Avoid using heat on or near your water meter.