Below freezing temperatures can lead to busted pipes.The best way to prevent a plumbing emergency is by slow-dripping water from your faucets. Turn on the hot and cold until water it barely drips, and leave it on. The dripping or trickling will keep water flowing through your pipes, preventing them from freezing.

According to Freeze Miser, pipes run the risk of freezing when temps drop below 32°F, but the real risk is when temperatures are less than 20°F. Anytime outside temperatures will be below freezing for an extended period of time, allow your faucets to slow-drip or trickle.

Other Ways to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing

Open Cabinet Doors

Most plumbing is on exterior walls where pipes can become cold during frigid temperatures. To warm up your pipes, open cabinet doors to expose all plumbing underneath the sinks. Leave the cabinets open for the duration of below-freezing weather.

Keep the Heat At 65°F or Above

Pipes are less prone to burst in a warm house. At a bare minimum, keep your thermostat set at 55°F. Going warmer and setting the heat at least 65°F is even better. Keeping your home and pipes warm lessens their chance of freezing.

Insulate Pipes in Unheated Areas

Unheated areas are at the highest risk for burst pipes — think crawl spaces and unheated basements. You should consult with a contractor if your crawl space is uninsulated. Top options include adding spray foam and rigid foam board. For exposed pipes in unheated areas like the basement, consider foam pipe sleeves or heat tape.

Don’t Forget About Outside Spigots

Pipes leading to outside spigots can freeze and bust just the same as indoor plumbing. To prevent your spigots from freezing, swap out standard models with a frost-proof faucet. Also, disconnect and drain any attached hoses.

Consider Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Warm air will escape anywhere there’s cracks for it to flow through. If you have old drafty windows, an uninsulated roof, or gaps in your doors, your house won’t efficiently retain heat. Long term fixes include adding better insulation and replacing your windows. But you can also opt for quick fixes to help keep your home warm which include using storm windows, window insulation kits, and door insulation kits.