Symptoms
- Drip increases noticeably when temperatures drop
- Faucet is on an exterior wall or unheated space
- No one is intentionally leaving it dripping for freeze prevention
- Problem improves again once it warms up
Likely causes
- CommonIntentional drip left running to prevent frozen pipesSome households deliberately drip a faucet during extreme cold, which isn't a malfunction.
- CommonExisting worn washer or cartridge becoming more noticeableMaterials contract slightly in the cold, which can worsen a marginal seal.
- PossiblePipe on an exterior wall experiencing minor freeze-thaw movementCan put slight stress on fittings, causing intermittent drips.
- Less commonPressure changes from a water heater or pressure-reducing valve reacting to coldUncommon but possible in some systems.
What to do
- Confirm no one in the household is intentionally leaving the faucet dripping for freeze prevention.
- If the drip is unintentional, treat it as a standard worn washer or cartridge issue and repair it using the appropriate guide for your faucet type.
- Check if the faucet or its supply line runs along an exterior wall, which can be more exposed to temperature swings.
- Consider adding pipe insulation to exposed supply lines in unheated spaces.
- If drips only happen during freezing temperatures and stop otherwise, monitor rather than over-repair, but don't ignore a genuine leak.
- Address any confirmed washer or cartridge wear so it doesn't worsen into a larger leak.
Tools and parts
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe insulation
Faucet washer or cartridgeSearch: “faucet washer cartridge kit”
When to call a pro
Call a plumber if you suspect pipes are at risk of freezing rather than just a faucet drip, since frozen pipes are a bigger and more urgent issue.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.