When temperatures stay well below freezing, let a cold-water faucet drip slowly to help reduce the risk of freezing pipes. This is a common preventive measure in older homes and in plumbing that runs through exterior walls, crawl spaces, or other unheated areas.
Why letting a faucet drip helps prevent frozen pipes
Frozen pipes burst because trapped water expands and builds pressure as it turns to ice. A slow drip keeps water moving and can help relieve pressure if ice begins to form, reducing the chance that a pipe freezes and bursts.
When this is most important
Use this during extreme cold, especially if:
- Temperatures stay below 20°F (-6°C) for several hours
- Pipes have frozen in your home before
- The faucet is on an exterior wall
- Plumbing runs through unheated spaces
Limits of this approach
While a dripping faucet wastes a small amount of water, it can help prevent thousands of dollars in damage during extreme cold.
This should be used as a short-term safeguard, not a replacement for proper insulation, heat tape, or other pipe protection.
Additional steps that help
- Open cabinets underneath sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air to circulate
- Keep interior doors open to improve heat distribution throughout your home
- Avoid lowering indoor temperatures at night during prolonged cold