UPDATE: Water restored for majority but further disruption may follow amid 'widespread frost'

While majority of water disruptions restored, Uisce Éireann warns that weather related bursts on the water network are likely to continue for the coming days as a result of sub-zero temperatures.

The number of people without water today, according to a press release, has fallen to approximately 4,500, down from a peak of 40,000 on Monday January 6.

Uisce Éireann’s Head of Water Operations, Margaret Attridge, is urging people to continue to conserve water and to report any leaks on the public network.  

"As some counties experience Arctic conditions, which can impact on our pipe infrastructure, letting us know of breaks on the public network allows us to dispatch our expert crews as early as possible, therefore protecting the levels of water in our reservoirs for the whole country,” Ms Attridge added.

Uisce Éireann have said that their crews will remain on standby ready to maintain and restore water supplies for customers across the country, while taking into account all necessary safety measures. 

"We’re asking people to do simple things like being mindful of shower times and turning off the faucet when brushing teeth. We are continuing to ask people to insulate outside taps, exposed pipes and tanks, to check for leaks and to turn off water to exterior pipes or unoccupied premises. We are especially asking people never to leave taps running as this will not necessarily prevent pipes from freezing and can impact on local water supply,” Ms Attridge said.

The public can report leaks or bursts on the public water networks to our Customer Care Team on 1800 278 278, according to Uisce Eireann. 

Uisce Eireann would like to thank all those who have supported our efforts to restore normal water supplies including the National Emergency Co-ordination Group, local authorities, the ESB, Civil Defence and other agencies for their support and advice.

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Customers can also sign up to Uisce Eireann's free text alerts scheme "which gives details of supply interruptions that last longer than four hours as well as details on planned and unplanned outages and boil water notices should they be needed to protect public health."

 To sign up log onto water.ie and input your Eircode and mobile number. 

Uisce Eireann's tips to protect against frozen pipes include:

• Insulate water tanks and pipes: Exposed pipes and tanks are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Insulating them with lagging material can help prevent heat loss and keep pipes from freezing
• Service your boiler: A well-maintained boiler is essential for efficient heating and can help reduce energy bills. Uisce Éireann recommends having your boiler serviced regularly by an accredited plumber
• Fix dripping taps: We recommend you always fix any dripping taps but pay particular attention to external dripping taps in winter as water from them can freeze on the ground and can cause people to slip and injure themselves.
• Check your inside stop valve: The inside stop valve is the main isolation valve for your water supply. It's important to make sure you can easily locate and operate the stop valve in case of a leak
• Minimise draughts: Cold air from outside can cause pipes to freeze inside. Draught-proof your home by sealing gaps around windows and doors. 

For more tips see www.water.ie/winterproofing

 Check out this video on what to do if you have frozen pipes, provided by Uisce Eireann - https://youtu.be/wUA0M1kUvi8.