The short answer
Why a Drip Helps
Water that keeps moving, even a slow trickle, takes longer to freeze than still water. The constant flow also prevents pressure from building up between a block of ice and a closed faucet. That pressure is what usually splits a pipe, not the ice itself.
A pencil-thin stream from one faucet is often enough. Choose the faucet farthest from where water enters your home. That keeps water moving through the whole system. The pros recommend this as a temporary measure, not a permanent habit.
Where to Drip
Pick a cold-water faucet, preferably on an exterior wall or in a cabinet. Open the cabinet door underneath so warm indoor air can reach the pipes. If you have a second story, dripping a faucet there helps protect the lines running through the attic or ceiling.
If you live in Rockwall, keep your shutoff valve location written down before a freeze. That way you can act quickly if a pipe does burst. The pros suggest testing the valve once a year so it turns easily when you need it.
- Use cold water, not hot
- Drip only one or two faucets
- Keep cabinet doors open
- Set the drip to a steady trickle
- Do this only during freezing temperatures
- Turn it off once temperatures rise above freezing
Other Freeze Protection Steps
A drip works well alongside other precautions. Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation, especially in crawl spaces and garages. Seal gaps where cold air can reach pipes, like around vents or holes in exterior walls. Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor spigots.
Keep your thermostat at the same temperature day and night during a freeze. Lowering it at night saves energy but can let pipes cool to freezing. If you leave home, set the heat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
When a Drip Is Not Enough
A drip cannot help if the power goes out or if the water supply is shut off. In those cases, drain the pipes completely by opening all faucets and flushing toilets. For homes with unheated crawl spaces, a space heater placed safely near pipes can add extra warmth.
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, check for cracks or bulges before thawing. Thaw slowly with a hair dryer or warm towels, never with an open flame. If you see water damage or a burst, turn off the water at the main valve right away.
What to Do After a Freeze
Once temperatures rise, check all faucets for normal flow. Look for damp spots on ceilings, walls, or floors that could indicate a slow leak. If you find water damage, dry the area quickly to prevent mold from taking hold.
For significant water damage, the pros usually handle structural drying and dehumidification. They can also inspect for hidden moisture in walls and under flooring. Acting within a day or two limits the chance of mold growth and makes the cleanup simpler.
- Check every faucet for flow
- Look for damp spots on ceilings and walls
- Dry wet areas with fans and dehumidifiers
- Remove soaked carpets or rugs
- Watch for musty odors over the next week
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Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
How much water should I let drip?
A slow, steady trickle about the width of a pencil lead is enough. You do not need a full stream. The goal is to keep water moving and relieve pressure, not to waste water. Adjust it to the smallest flow that still runs continuously.
Should I drip hot water or cold water?
Use cold water. Hot water lines can also freeze, but dripping cold water is usually sufficient and wastes less energy. If you have a single faucet that mixes both, set it to cold. The moving water in the cold line protects the main supply.
How long should I keep the faucet dripping?
Keep the drip going until outdoor temperatures stay above freezing for at least a few hours. Usually that means overnight and into the next morning. Once the thaw is steady, turn the faucet off and check for any leaks or drips that persist.