Tips on how to thaw and protect condensing drain away pipes as temperatures drop

Last week we brought you the news that millions of households in the UK could be affected as low temperatures increase the risk of a boiler breakdown. With cold temperatures looking to stay put for a while, we thought we’d advise on what you can do to help the situation this week, in particular the condensate pipe.

The condensate pipe is a plastic pipe (black, white or grey), coming from the bottom of the boiler. If this pipe is less than 32mm in diameter and runs outside of the property or through a non-heated area then it should be fully insulated with waterproof lagging.

Only attempt to thaw a condense pipe that is at ground level and which is easily accessible to you. Under no circumstances should anyone attempt to thaw a condense pipe which is at height, without the assistance of a professionally trained engineer.

A hot water bottle or heat wrap (like the ones that can be used to ease muscle discomfort) would be a suitable and safe way of thawing the condense pipe. Hold the hot water bottle or warmed heat wrap around the condensate pipe to thaw it.

Once thawed, insulate the pipe with waterproof lagging. If it is not at ground level contact the installer to implement a permanent solution to prevent the condense freezing.

Find out more about our Broken Boiler Checklist.