Installation: FAQs

What protection against freezing is required?

The type and level of frost protection required will depend upon the environment in which a water fitting is installed, with insulation and trace heating commonly used.

Any water fitting installed outside the thermal envelope or at depths of less than 750 mm should be protected against damage caused by freezing.

Any not used during cold weather, such as seasonal irrigation systems should be isolated and drained down. Similarly, if a premises is to be left unoccupied and unheated during cold weather, for example a holiday home or caravan, the water supply should be turned off and plumbing system drained.

When installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions insulation may delay but not prevent freezing.

Providing within 12 hours the plumbing system is used (there is demand flow) or there is an increase in the ambient temperature, the insulator calculator can be used to give an indication of insulation requirements for installations exposed to low temperatures. Where this is not likely to be the case the local water undertaker should be consulted as insulation alone may not be suitable.