Learn when to drip faucets and other effective strategies for protecting your home’s plumbing.
When temperatures plunge, one common piece of advice is to let faucets drip to prevent pipes from freezing. But is this always the right move? Let’s explore the reasons why you might or might not want to drip your faucets during a freeze.
Houston Residents: The City of Houston’s water is run through pump stations on the ground, not water towers. City officials are urging Houston residents to not drip their faucets because it could put pressure on the water system, potentially shutting it down.
Reasons to Drip Faucets:
- Water Source from a Water Tower: If your water supply comes from a water tower (like some areas outside of Houston), dripping faucets can help prevent pipes from freezing. The slight flow keeps water moving, reducing the risk of ice formation.
- Exposed Plumbing: Homes with pipes in unheated areas, such as garages or basements, benefit from dripping faucets to keep water circulating.
- Severe Cold Temperatures: In extremely cold conditions, letting water drip can be a simple yet effective way to mitigate the risk of frozen pipes.
Reasons Not to Drip Faucets:
- Water Source from a Pumping Station: If your water supply is sourced from a pumping station (like most everyone in Houston), continuous dripping might lower the overall water pressure and affect the system’s efficiency.
- Risk of Overflow: Continuous dripping can lead to overfilled sinks or tub
In addition to the information about when to drip faucets during a freeze, it’s crucial to know what actions you can take to prevent frozen pipes when dripping faucets isn’t an option.
Preventive Actions for a Freeze:
- Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes with insulation foam or heating tape, especially in unheated areas.
- Seal Leaks: Find and seal leaks that allow cold air inside, especially where pipes run through walls.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Keep cabinet doors open to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, particularly under sinks.
- Maintain a Consistent Temperature: Keep your home heated to a consistent temperature day and night.
- Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Remove, drain, and store outdoor hoses. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs.
- Use a Space Heater: In unheated areas, use a space heater to keep the temperature around pipes above freezing. Always follow safety guidelines to prevent fires.
- Shut Off Water if Necessary: In extreme cases, if you’re leaving home during a severe freeze, consider shutting off and draining your home’s water system to prevent frozen pipes.
These steps can significantly reduce the risk of freezing pipes, especially in homes where dripping faucets isn’t feasible. Remember, each home is unique, so consider your specific situation when deciding the best course of action.
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