The water post valve in your garden is prone to breakage. Here are tips to prevent it!
Freezing of the water post valve is a common fault in small houses. In the construction of small houses, freezing of the water post valve and the resulting water damage are among the most common claims made by insurance companies. A water post can freeze if the valve is placed in a layer of insulation in the wall structure, for example 50 mm. A poor installation can cause the valve to freeze, as frost can be conducted through the copper wall pipe to the other side of the water post valve where it freezes the water in the pipe, causing the pipe to freeze. The valve can also freeze if the wall outlet pipe of the water post valve is installed sloping towards the room, allowing water to drain into the valve installed inside the wall. A properly installed water post can freeze if water is trapped in an irrigation hose that has been left closed over the winter. Freezing of the water post valve will break the valve. Water damage occurs when the ice has melted, and pressurized water is released through the broken valve structure into the wall structure.
According to the building regulations, the water supply system and the equipment connected to it must be located in such a way that any water leakage can be reliably detected in good time and the water supply system can be easily inspected and repaired. The Building Regulations require that a removable or openable hatch of sufficient size, but not less than 500 x 500 mm, clearly marked, be provided at the point of service and inspection.
Another common mistake is that people turn the water post valve too tightly, which over time causes the rubber seal on the valve to become brittle and it no longer closes properly. The water post should not be screwed on too tightly to allow it to drain to prevent freezing.
This will prevent the water post valve from freezing and breaking:
- Install the water post valve in a warm place where it is easily accessible and where it cannot freeze under any circumstances.
- Repair and reinstall an improperly installed water post valve to comply with the building code.
- Disconnect the garden hose for the winter and drain it of water. Also, let the water post valve drain until empty so it doesn't freeze.
- Do not turn the water post valve too tightly to avoid breaking the rubber seal.
In case of water damage or frozen pipes, do the following:
- Turn off the tap or main water supply.
- Dry any spillage as quickly and thoroughly as possible.
- If you live in a block of flats or a terraced house, report the damage to the property manager or the maintenance company.
- If you live in a detached house, call the 24 Center hotline on 0100 2470, which will assess the situation and send a professional if necessary.
- File a claim with your insurance company.
