Should I leave faucets dripping in cold weather?

Yes, leaving faucets dripping during extremely cold weather can prevent frozen pipes, but it's only necessary when temperatures drop well below freezing for extended periods - typically when it's colder than -15°C overnight in Ottawa.

When to let faucets drip: Focus on faucets connected to pipes in unheated areas like exterior walls, basements, crawl spaces, or garages. You only need a very slow drip - about one drop every few seconds. This small amount of moving water prevents ice formation that could burst your pipes. Both hot and cold taps should drip slightly, as both supply lines can freeze.

Ottawa's climate considerations: Our winters regularly see temperatures below -20°C, making pipe freezing a real concern. Homes built before modern insulation standards are particularly vulnerable. Pay special attention to pipes on north-facing walls or in older basements where insulation may be inadequate. The City of Ottawa typically sees the highest risk of frozen pipes during January and February cold snaps.

Better prevention methods include insulating exposed pipes, sealing air leaks around pipe penetrations, and keeping cabinet doors open under sinks during cold nights to allow warm air circulation. If you're leaving town during winter, never set your thermostat below 15°C, and consider having someone check your home daily during extreme cold.

When pipes do freeze, shut off the main water supply immediately and call a professional. Attempting to thaw pipes with open flames or high heat can cause pipe damage or fires. If you're experiencing repeated freezing issues, a licensed plumber can identify vulnerable areas and recommend permanent insulation solutions.

For homes with chronic freezing problems, Ottawa Pro Plumbing can assess your pipe layout and recommend insulation upgrades or pipe relocation to prevent future issues.