An outside tap is a useful thing – but if it gets really cold, the water in it can freeze. Water expands as it freezes and if this happens in the tap, it could burst the pipe or cause the tap itself to start leaking.

Prevent this by insulating the tap: there are dedicated ‘tap insulation’ kits available that wrap around the body and have a ‘snout’ for the outlet – but a towel wrapped around the pipework and body of the tap will work too at a push. Keep it clear of the nozzle so any drips from the tap don’t soak the towel and cover it all with a plastic bag to prevent the fabric getting wet (otherwise it’ll freeze and stop working as a blanket).