I’ve been told to run the faucet furthest from the water meter at a slow trickle at night to prevent the pipes in our two story home from freezing (it’s about 5 degrees F where I am). Why do they recommend doing this at night only and not during the day—for example, when you’re away at work? If the temperature is below freezing both periods what is the difference? Wouldn’t you want to do this day and night?
In: Physics
I recently heard that letting the water drip is only recommended when the temp is several degrees below freezing for more than a few hours… so all those nights where it’s forecasted to barely dip below, it may not be necessary.
Also, that you dont necessarily need to drip multiple faucets. Rather, just to drip the ones that are furthest from where the water enters the house.
And lastly, that it isnt because moving water doesnt freeze. Rather, it relieves pressure, so if water in a pipe does freeze, it has room to expand and therefore wont bust the pipe.
Disclaimer: this is just stuff i heard recently. Im not an expert. Please feel free to research.
Latest Answers