Should you really drip faucets to protect pipes? What to know as GA gets freezing weather

Georgia doesn’t often have sustained freezing temperatures, but the state is expecting several nights of cold weather over the next week, according to The National Weather Service.

Residents should take action as soon as there is a danger of freezing weather. Water expands as it freezes and puts added pressure on its container, like pipes, and no matter the strength, it can cause it to break.

Let faucets drip or trickle slowly to prevent pressure from building.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division has issued further official guidance for preventing and dealing with frozen water pipes.

Actions to prevent frozen pipes

Pipes can burst in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30℉ and ice particles in water can block pipelines and adhere to valves, so it’s important to be aware of conditions.

Aside from leaving faucets dripping, residents can also:

• Wrap pipes using foam sleeves, heat tape or foam covers.
• Leave cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer room air to circulate.
• Keep garage doors closed if there are pipes near.
• Keep thermostat set to the same temperature day and night.
• Relocate water pipes that are susceptible to colder temperatures.
• Install a water main shut-off valve.
• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces.

Actions to thaw frozen pipes

Turn on both hot and cold water supplies to ensure there is a steady stream of water. If only a trickle comes out, you likely have a frozen pipe, which is often in exterior walls or where service comes in at foundation.

• Keep the faucet open. Water will begin to flow eventually and will melt the ice.
• Apply heat to the frozen area by using a heating pad, a hair dryer, heat gun or wrap pipes with hot towels. 
• Check all other faucets in your home. If one pipe freezes, others could.

If you are unable to locate the culprit, call a licensed plumber.

Actions to take if pipes burst

Call the plumber as soon a pipe is damaged, but until they arrive, take these measures.

• Shut off the main valve inside the house. If it is not in the house, shut it off at the curb or near the meter. 
• Leave the faucets turned on.
• Close the valve on the water heater if the break is in a hot-water pipe. 

Although freezing temperatures might be only occasional, it could save you a lot of money and energy if you know how to act in an emergency.

Do you have any advice for protecting your home? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.

This story was originally published December 17, 2025 at 5:30 AM with the headline "Should you really drip faucets to protect pipes? What to know as GA gets freezing weather."