Drip faucets slowly in cold weather to prevent pipes from freezing. A rate of one drop every few seconds keeps water moving without wasting much.
Ideal Drip Rate
Aim for a trickle where drops form every 2-3 seconds, not a steady stream. This maintains pipe flow during temperatures below 20°F for several hours. Faster dripping uses more water unnecessarily.
When to Start
Begin dripping when forecasts predict below 20-28°F for 3+ hours, especially for exposed pipes. Drip both hot and cold faucets if lines are vulnerable. Stop once temperatures stay above freezing.
Additional Tips
Keep indoor thermostat at 55°F minimum and open cabinet doors for heat circulation. Costs stay low, often under $1 monthly per faucet.
