It can stop the pipes freezing in the attic (4)

I believe the answer is:

heat

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'it can stop the pipes freezing' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'in the attic' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates a hidden word.
'HEAT' is hidden within 'the attic'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for heat that I've seen before include "Get agitated" , "Level of spice" , "Warm up" , "Pressure" , "Hotness" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.