How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing: The Ideal Low Drip Temperature

During winter, preventing pipes from freezing is crucial to avoid costly repairs and water damage. While some people have heard that simply letting water drip can help, the ideal temperature and flow rate often go unnoticed. In this article, we will discuss the best approach to keep your pipes from freezing with a low drip temperature.

Understanding the Freeze Point of Water

Water freezes at 32°F (0°C), but ensuring it stays above this temperature requires some effort. According to Mel, the water should be kept at a 20°F (6.6°C) cooler temperature than outside to prevent freezing. However, this alone isn't always enough, especially in cold climates.

Common System Limitations

The concept of dripping water to prevent freezing has its limitations. As detailed by Mel, the setup isn't foolproof due to the human factor. If there's a hose or splitter attached to the faucet, water can be retained indoors, potentially freezing and damaging pipes.

For example, if you have a hose running outside, any water caught in the hose can freeze and burst, causing significant damage.

Furthermore, the flow of water is crucial. If the water flow is too slow or cold, it may not provide enough heat to prevent freezing. Martin provided insight from his experience with car washes, where a constant flow of water at 50°F (10°C) was necessary to prevent freezing outside.

Design and Building Considerations

The design and construction of your home play a significant role in preventing pipes from freezing. The temperature of the water flowing through your pipes impacts how effectively it can prevent freezing. The closer the water is to your desired freeze point, the less likely it is to freeze.

Insulation and Depth

For example, if your water service line is installed at a depth of 11 feet and has an additional four inches of rigid foam insulation, it is more protected. However, if the pipes are in exposed areas, they are more vulnerable to freezing.

Considerations like the water and sewer lines also matter. For instance, the interior walls prevent heat loss, keeping the pipes warm. Exterior walls, especially if they are ventilated crawl spaces, are a different story. They can freeze if the temperatures drop below freezing and the air temperature is a bit lower.

Drip Temperature and Flow Rate

To ensure your pipes remain unfrozen, a low drip temperature is essential. Measure the temperature of the dripping water at the most vulnerable spot, such as an exterior wall, farthest from the service line. Aim for a temperature range of 40°F to 45°F (4.4°C to 7.2°C).

If the incoming water is usually 55°F (12.8°C), adjust the drip rate accordingly. Monitor the temperature in a few hours, and adjust the flow rate if necessary. If the temperature is much higher, reduce the drip rate; if it is lower, increase the drip rate slightly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while letting water drip can prevent freezing, the ideal drip temperature and flow rate must be carefully considered to ensure the effectiveness of this method. By understanding the freeze point of water, recognizing the limitations of your system, and implementing a proper drip temperature, you can protect your pipes from freezing and save yourself from costly repairs.