Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Dripping Faucet in Cold Weather
A dripping faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but in winter, it could be a warning sign of a bigger plumbing issue. Many homeowners assume that a slow drip is just an inconvenience, but during colder months, it can indicate freezing pipes, excessive water pressure, or worn-out components that could lead to costly repairs.
Instead of ignoring that constant drip, drip, drip, let’s explore what causes it, why it’s a problem in winter, and what you can do to fix it before it leads to bigger plumbing issues.
1. What Causes a Faucet to Drip in Winter?
While a dripping faucet can happen any time of year, winter conditions can make plumbing problems worse. Here are the most common reasons your faucet might be leaking:
❄️ Freezing Pipes
In cold temperatures, water inside your pipes can freeze, creating blockages that increase pressure within the plumbing system. If your faucet is dripping slightly, it might be relieving some of this built-up pressure—which means your pipes could be on the verge of bursting.
✅ Why It’s Important: If you notice a sudden drip from a faucet in an unused part of your home, especially on an exterior wall, it could mean your pipes are starting to freeze.
⚙️ Worn Washers or Seals
Inside every faucet are small washers, gaskets, and seals that keep water from leaking. Cold temperatures can cause these rubber components to shrink and crack, allowing water to escape.
✅ Why It’s Important: If your faucet only drips when it’s turned off, worn washers or seals may be to blame.
💧 High Water Pressure
If your faucet drips only at certain times, such as at night when water usage is lower, it could be due to excessive water pressure in your plumbing system. Cold weather can make this issue worse, as ice in pipes creates pressure fluctuations.
✅ Why It’s Important: Uncontrolled water pressure can lead to leaks, bursts, and costly damage in your plumbing system.
2. Why a Dripping Faucet Is a Bigger Problem in Cold Weather
Ignoring a dripping faucet during winter isn’t just a waste of water—it could lead to major plumbing problems, including:
🚨 Frozen & Burst Pipes – If your faucet is dripping due to pressure buildup from freezing pipes, ignoring it could result in a pipe bursting, leading to extensive water damage.
💰 Higher Water Bills – A slow drip may not seem like much, but over time, it adds up to wasted water and increased costs.
🛠️ Increased Wear & Tear on Plumbing – The constant dripping wears down the faucet’s components, eventually leading to a larger leak that requires professional repair.
Ignoring a dripping faucet during cold weather is risky—it’s a sign that something isn’t right with your plumbing system.
3. How to Fix a Dripping Faucet Before It Becomes a Problem
If you notice a faucet dripping this winter, here’s what you should do before it turns into a bigger plumbing issue:
✅ Check for Frozen Pipes – If your faucet is on an exterior wall, feel the pipe leading to it. If it’s unusually cold or has frost buildup, your pipes could be freezing. Open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate and call a plumber if needed.
✅ Inspect Washers & Seals – If your faucet drips constantly when turned off, it could be due to worn-out washers or seals. Replacing them can stop the leak and extend your faucet’s lifespan.
✅ Test Water Pressure – If the drip happens at night or sporadically, you may have a water pressure issue. Installing a pressure regulator can help prevent excessive strain on your pipes.
✅ Let Faucets Drip on Purpose – In some cases, a controlled slow drip can prevent frozen pipes by relieving pressure buildup. If temperatures drop below freezing, keeping a small stream of water running can help avoid ice blockages.
4. When to Call a Professional Plumber
While some dripping faucets are an easy DIY fix, others signal larger plumbing issues that require expert attention. If you experience any of the following, it’s time to call Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing:
🔹 A sudden or unexplained leak that wasn’t happening before cold weather arrived
🔹 Low water pressure combined with a dripping faucet (possible pipe freeze)
🔹 Leaks in multiple faucets or areas of your home
🔹 Higher-than-normal water bills with no obvious cause
A professional plumber can inspect your system, identify the root cause of the drip, and prevent costly damage before it happens.
Stop Plumbing Problems Before They Start – Call Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing Today!
Don’t let a small drip turn into a major plumbing disaster this winter. If you suspect frozen pipes, pressure issues, or worn-out components, let Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing help. Call us at (971) 220-8685 or visit our contact page to schedule an inspection today!
