The short answer
How a Drip Relieves Pressure
When water freezes, it expands. This expansion creates immense pressure inside your plumbing pipes. A slow, steady drip from a faucet allows water to keep moving, which can relieve that internal pressure. With pressure released, a pipe is less likely to rupture if the water inside begins to freeze. Think of it as giving the ice a place to expand without breaking the pipe.
Limitations of This Method
A dripping faucet is not foolproof. If temperatures drop severely or wind chills affect pipes in exterior walls, a drip may not be enough to prevent freezing. It also does not protect the long vertical sections of pipe leading to the faucet. Relying solely on a drip without other precautions can still lead to a costly plumbing failure and water damage in your home.
More Reliable Prevention Steps
For better protection, combine dripping with other actions. Insulate pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, attics, and garages using foam sleeves. Keep cabinet doors open to let warm air reach pipes under sinks. Maintain a consistent thermostat setting day and night during cold weather. If a pipe is against an exterior wall, it needs extra attention beyond just a drip.
- Insulate exposed pipes with foam or fiberglass sleeves.
- Seal cracks and openings in walls that let cold air reach pipes.
- Keep your home's thermostat set to at least 55 degrees when away.
- Disconnect and drain outdoor garden hoses before winter.
- Let warm air circulate by opening under-sink cabinet doors.
- Consider installing pipe heating cables for vulnerable lines.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If a faucet only produces a trickle or no water, a pipe may be frozen. Keep the faucet open to allow water to flow as it thaws. Gently apply heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in warm water. Never use an open flame or a propane torch, as this is a fire hazard. Check other faucets in your home to see if the problem is isolated or more widespread.
When a Pipe Bursts
If you hear a pop or see water spraying, a pipe has likely burst. Immediately turn off the main water supply to your house to stop the flow. Then, call local water damage pros for emergency water extraction and drying. They use industrial equipment to remove water and manage the drying process, which helps limit mold and structural damage. Move any furniture or belongings away from the water if it is safe to do so, and take photos for documentation.
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Call Now (615) 436-5759Frequently asked questions
Which faucets should I let drip?
Let cold water drip from faucets served by pipes running through exterior walls or unheated spaces. Typically, this includes faucets on the north side of your home or in bathrooms with plumbing in an outside wall. Dripping one faucet per vulnerable zone is often sufficient to provide some pressure relief.
Does a drip increase my water bill?
A slow drip uses a small amount of water, which may add a few dollars to your bill. This minor cost is far less than the expense of repairing a burst pipe and the resulting water damage. Consider it an inexpensive form of temporary insurance during a severe cold snap.
What if dripping doesn't work and I get water damage?
If dripping fails and water damage occurs, act fast. Shut off the main water valve and call local water damage pros. They perform moisture mapping and structural drying to protect building materials. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Always document the damage with photos for an insurance claim.
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