Here is when pipes actually freeze

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE/Gray News) - Pipe-freezing weather can be confusing for homeowners who often hear mixed messages about when to run water and when not to.

It can be especially confusing when weather experts tell residents not to run water when temperatures hit 32 degrees. After all, water freezes at 32 degrees, right? Not exactly.

The freezing process takes time

The water in pipes will not instantly freeze at 32 degrees because the freezing process needs a certain amount of time to begin. At 32 degrees, it can take as long as a few days to freeze pipes at that constant temperature.

Think about ice cubes in a freezer. Even at 0 degrees, it takes time for them to freeze.

The air needs to be colder outside to pull more heat from the water before freezing can begin. The rule of thumb is 28 degrees or colder for four hours or longer.

Every home is different. Even if homes look similar, they may not be built the same way.

How running faucets can help

The freezing process is difficult to begin when water is running and moving through pipes. That is why it is often recommended to leave faucets dripping when temperatures hit 32 degrees or colder.

In northern states where it stays below freezing for long periods of time, running water will still freeze. Construction in those areas, however, is meant to handle the constant cold.