Thames Water is helping users protect their homes from the result of winter chills by sharing advice to protect homes and fresh water pipes from icy weather conditions.

The aim is to help clients avoid expensive repair bills caused by damaged boilers and leakages and bursts from fresh water pipes in their homes.

The average repair cost for a leaking pipe in the UK is roughly £330.10.

The firm has emphasized that broken pipes on private property are the responsibility of homeowners, underscoring the importance of having a qualified emergency plumber's contact and ensuring that home insurance covers leaking pipes.

Operational service centre's director at Thames Water, Sarah Holland, said: "With temperatures turning colder, there are a lot of small things we can all do to help keep our homes warm and protect them from damage.

"The last thing anyone wants right now is a burst water pipe in their home.

"Our easy and practical winter readiness tips are free or cost very little but can save a lot in the long run."

Some of the tips shared by the company include clearing drains and gutters, insulating pipes with foam, and locating your stop tap to be able to swiftly turn off water during any emergency.

Most of these tips are either free or cheap to execute.

The firm recommends insulating internal household pipework, which roughly costs £1.75 per metre or about £20 for an average home.

It also advises remembering to insulate outdoor and garden pipes, knowing the location of your stop tap to limit property damage during pipe bursts or leakages, and bleeding radiators using a radiator key to let out trapped air and maintain radiators' warmth.

Additionally, Thames Water says that customers who use a water meter could save money on their water bill by fixing leaky toilets and dripping taps, and by having emergency plumber contacts readily available in case of emergencies.

The company has shared these tips on its social media platforms throughout the winter period.

As the winter’s cold temperatures causes water to freeze and expand, leading to cracks and splits in pipes, the company stresses the potential dangers.

Leaks typically surface when the ice melts, and water finds the cracks to escape.

Uninsulated pipes leading to outside taps, placed next to suspended interior walls, or situated in unheated lofts and garages, are especially susceptible to this occurrence.

Therefore, homeowners are advised to check their home insurance covers leaking pipes to mitigate damage.