My taps & shower are still running but the sinks & shower tray won't drain away. Could this be due to the extremely low temperatures & freezing pipes or is it more likely to be a blocked underground waste pipe? What should I do? Should I risk using my washing machine. My gas heating is on 24 hours a day and seems to be working well. I have cavity wall insulation and plenty of loft insulation & tank & pipe lagging in the loft but suspect underfloor pipes etc will not be well protected.

Susan, January 2010

it may be frozen drain pipes, you could try pouring some boiling water on them nd down the drains that are frozen, but it may not have much effect depending on how big the ice blockage is. if you're still struggling it may be best to get in touch with a drainage company, such as dynorod.

Ian, January 2010