What Temperature to Drip Faucets, Reddit? The Definitive Guide

Alright, listen up, folks. Let’s cut right to the chase. You’re wondering what temperature to drip your faucets when the mercury dips below freezing. The simple answer is: it’s not about the temperature of the water, but the rate and consistency of the drip. You want a slow, steady drip, just enough to keep the water moving inside your pipes. This constant movement prevents the water from freezing and expanding, which is what causes pipes to burst and gives you a very unpleasant (and expensive) surprise. Think of it as a low-impact cardiovascular workout for your plumbing. The goal is prevention, not a deluge.

Understanding the Science Behind the Drip

It’s not some old wives’ tale; there’s real science here. When water freezes, it expands by about 9%. This expansion puts immense pressure on the surrounding pipes. Copper, PVC, PEX—they’re all susceptible to this pressure. A small, continuous drip keeps the water molecules moving, preventing them from forming the ice crystals that cause the damaging expansion.

How Cold is Too Cold?

Generally, you should start dripping your faucets when temperatures are expected to drop to 20°F (-6.7°C) or lower. However, factors like the age of your home, the insulation of your pipes, and the wind chill can all influence when you need to take action. If you live in an area with consistently cold winters, it’s better to err on the side of caution and start dripping your faucets earlier.

Factors That Influence the Drip

• Pipe Insulation: Well-insulated pipes can withstand colder temperatures for longer. If your pipes are exposed or poorly insulated, you’ll need to drip your faucets sooner.
• Location of Pipes: Exterior walls are more vulnerable to cold temperatures. Pipes running through these walls are more likely to freeze.
• Wind Chill: Wind chill can make temperatures feel significantly colder than the actual air temperature. Factor this in when deciding when to drip your faucets. A -10°F wind chill needs far more urgent attention than a still 20°F.
• History of Freezing: If you’ve had pipes freeze in the past, be extra cautious. History tends to repeat itself, especially with frozen pipes.

The “Drip” Itself: Volume and Method

Forget about aiming for a specific water temperature—that’s irrelevant. Focus on the volume of the drip. You want a steady, slow drip – not a stream, and definitely not a gush. Think of the flow you’d use to fill a measuring cup over several minutes. Just enough to keep the water flowing.

Which Faucets to Drip

• Faucets on Exterior Walls: These are the most vulnerable. Prioritize these faucets first.
• Faucets Farthest from the Water Heater: These pipes have a longer distance to travel and are more likely to cool down.
• Both Hot and Cold: Drip both the hot and cold water taps. Why? Because the pipes for both often run together, and freezing one can affect the other.

FAQs: Drip, Drip, Answer

Here are some common questions and concerns, answered with the straightforwardness you’d expect from someone who’s seen their fair share of frozen pipe disasters.

1. How much will dripping my faucets increase my water bill?

A slow drip shouldn’t add a significant amount to your water bill. It’s a small price to pay compared to the cost of repairing burst pipes, which can easily run into the thousands. Think of it as a cheap insurance policy.

2. Is it better to drip one faucet or multiple faucets?

Dripping multiple faucets, especially those on exterior walls or farthest from the water heater, is generally more effective. It helps maintain water flow throughout your entire plumbing system.

3. Can I just leave the water running instead of dripping it?

Leaving the water running continuously is wasteful and unnecessary. A slow, steady drip is sufficient. Don’t create a river in your sink.

4. What if my pipes are already frozen?

If you suspect your pipes are frozen, do not use open flames to thaw them. Use a hairdryer, heat lamp, or space heater to gently warm the pipes. Start at the faucet end and work your way back towards the water meter. Call a plumber if you’re unsure or uncomfortable. Safety first!

5. Should I open cabinet doors to expose pipes to warmer air?

Yes, absolutely. Opening cabinet doors allows warmer air to circulate around the pipes under your sinks, reducing the risk of freezing.

6. Can I use antifreeze in my pipes to prevent freezing?

Absolutely not! Never use antifreeze in your plumbing system. Antifreeze is toxic and can contaminate your drinking water. It’s also completely unnecessary.

7. What about my sprinkler system?

Your sprinkler system needs to be winterized properly. This usually involves draining the system and blowing out any remaining water with compressed air. Don’t rely on dripping faucets to protect your sprinkler system.

8. I have PEX pipes. Are they less likely to freeze?

PEX pipes are more flexible than copper pipes, but they can still freeze and burst. Don’t assume that PEX pipes are immune to freezing. Take the same precautions as you would with any other type of pipe.

9. How long should I drip my faucets?

Continue dripping your faucets until the temperatures rise above freezing and stay there for a sustained period. Don’t stop dripping them as soon as the temperature hits 33°F; wait until it’s consistently above freezing.

10. Is dripping faucets enough to prevent all pipe freezing?

Dripping faucets is a good preventative measure, but it’s not a guarantee. Proper insulation, sealing drafts, and maintaining a consistent temperature in your home are also important.

11. What if I’m going out of town during freezing weather?

If you’re going out of town during freezing weather, it’s even more crucial to drip your faucets. Consider turning off the main water supply and draining your pipes as an extra precaution. Have a neighbor check on your house regularly.

12. My hot water heater is in the attic. Should I be concerned?

Yes, very concerned! Water heaters in attics are highly susceptible to freezing. Insulate the water heater and the surrounding pipes thoroughly. Consider installing a small space heater in the attic to maintain a minimum temperature. Consult a plumber for recommendations specific to your situation.

Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Don’t wait until your pipes burst to take action. Be proactive, not reactive. Understand the risks, take the necessary precautions, and stay informed about the weather forecast. A little prevention can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road. And remember, when in doubt, call a qualified plumber. They’ve seen it all before, and they can provide expert advice tailored to your specific situation. Now go drip those faucets and stay warm!