Cold weather: precautions to take

Intense cold snaps sometimes cause damage to homes, especially due to frost. To avoid any problems, it is best to take a few precautions.

Intense cold snaps sometimes cause damage to homes, especially due to frost. To avoid any problems, it is best to take a few precautions.

Your well-being above all else

If possible, do not go out during the coldest hours.
Cover up well. The ideal is to wear several layers, since the air trapped between each layer acts as an insulator. Use a final waterproof layer.
Cover your nose and mouth: the air your breathe in will be warmer.

Check your battery regularly. Batteries are very sensitive to low temperatures and can lose capacity very quickly (after a night of inactivity for example).
Use antifreeze screen wash; check the level regularly.
Refuel: the fuller the tank, the less the risk of freezing and therefore ignition problems.
Do not use the handbrake. It can get stuck if temperatures fall below zero. To prevent the vehicle from moving once parked, it is recommended that you leave it in gear before turning off the engine.
Fit snow tyres; remember to check the tyre pressure several times during the winter. Note that snow tyres are mandatory in Luxembourg in winter conditions (ice, snow, ice patches or frost).

Insulate your water meter, taps and exterior pipes with insulation materials to prevent freezing, and drain them. The same applies if they are located in an unheated room.
In the event of frozen pipes, do not try to thaw them with a flame or an appliance that blows hot air or you risk damaging them. Contact AXA Assistance on +352 45 30 55.
If you have an outdoor swimming pool, overwinter it in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. This is essential to prevent frost from damaging the equipment. This usually involves draining and cleaning the filters and pipes, dismantling the pump, laying a tarp, etc. Don't empty your pool entirely.
If you use a heat pump to heat your home, make sure that your electrical system allows the de-icing function to work, which is often very energy-intensive. If you don't use your heat pump permanently, overwinter it.

Leave the heating on at minimum or in "freeze" mode. If this is not possible, shut off the water, drain the pipes and protect the heating system with antifreeze.
Turn off your spare heaters.
Limit the number of devices plugged into multi-socket adapters. Exceeding the power limit of a multi-socket adapter can cause the electrical circuit to overheat.
If you are away for more than 2 days, ask a relative or neighbour to start your car regularly if possible.