Warning issued as frozen pipes rack up €2,000 repair bills

With freezing temperatures continuing across Ireland, homeowners are being urged to take simple precautions to avoid frozen or burst pipes — a problem that can cost up to €2,000 to repair.

Plumbing experts say the ongoing cold snap has led to a rise in burst pipes, particularly in homes with exposed or poorly insulated plumbing.

According to Sean Richardson of Complete Plumbing Solutions, a burst pipe can cost anything from €500 to €2,000 depending on the extent of the damage.

“When water freezes, it expands, and that pressure can cause pipes to burst,” he said. “Taking preventative steps now can save homeowners significant stress and expense.”

Among the key recommendations is allowing a small trickle of water to run through taps connected to exposed pipes during particularly cold nights. Keeping water moving, experts say, can prevent freezing and relieve pressure inside the pipe.

Homeowners are also advised to insulate vulnerable pipework, particularly exterior pipes and those located in unheated areas such as attics. Richardson noted that pipe insulation is widely available and inexpensive, costing as little as €2 per metre.

“It really is a small investment that can prevent a very costly repair,” he said.

Another simple step is to keep press and cabinet doors slightly open in kitchens and bathrooms to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature — ideally no lower than 12 degrees Celsius — can also help prevent internal plumbing from freezing overnight.

Weather forecasts from Met Éireann indicate that cold conditions are set to continue, prompting renewed calls for householders to check for draughts, gaps around windows and doors, and other areas where cold air may be entering the home.

In cases where pipes have already frozen but not burst, homeowners are advised to shut off the water at the mains and thaw the pipe slowly using gentle heat, such as a hair dryer or warm towels. If a pipe does burst, the water supply should be turned off immediately and a qualified plumber contacted as soon as possible.

Experts stress that while temporary fixes can help limit damage, burst pipes should always be repaired by a professional to prevent further issues, including water damage and mould growth.

As freezing conditions persist, homeowners are being encouraged to act early rather than face costly emergency repairs in the weeks ahead.

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