MARTIN Lewis has revealed a hidden boiler switch that could save you £2,000 this winter.
Properties can become more vulnerable to leaks and bursts due to the freezing weather and rainfall.
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Savvy homeowners should make sure to prepare their homes to avoid a pluming disaster that can leave you thousands out of pocket.
Luckily, the Money Saving Expert has shared a top tip to avoid an ugly mishap in your property.
Talking on his ITV morning show the TV star advised Brits to check a hidden boiler switch known as stopcock.
Martin said: “Your stopcock is your main water off switch. The reason this is important is because it switches off your water in case of a frozen pipe burst.”
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Frozen pipes can lead to water leaks which can cause “£2,000 worth of damage”, Martin explained.
Knowing how to quickly shut off the water is important and will prove invaluable if you are unlucky enough to find yourself with a burst pipe.
He added: “It is normally found under the sink, downstairs the loo or in the shared corridor in flats.”
If the worst happens and a pipe does burst, you will know exactly how to turn off the water.
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“Don’t turn it all the way off but just check that is still moves in case you need to switch it off,” the money-saving guru said.
If you’re lucky enough to catch a frozen pipe before it bursts, just turn off your water supply and use a gentle heat to thaw it.
You can also turn off anything electrical that you think has been affected, and don’t use them until you have the all-clear from a professional electrician.
And you should move any furniture clothing or other items away form the area affected.
There are other ways to protect your home from the winter.
Brits should also be careful with their pipes – as they can expand and put tremendous pressure on whatever is containing if the water freezes.
The pressure can cause a tiny crack which can end with gallons of water ruining brickwork, tiles, fabrics and all your plans for a stress-free Christmas.
The best way to keep on top of pipes during the winter is to protect them with a foam layer called lagging which you can buy online.
Make sure to open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors whenever you can to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
It comes as a boiler engineer revealed why you should turn your heating on NOW and how to save £185 on bills.
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British Gas engineer Sonny Solanky explains why it is better to do it sooner rather than later.
Meanwhile, these five great boiler maintenance tips will keep your heating and hot water running during winter.
