Learn when (and how) to drip faucets correctly to prevent frozen pipes, which faucets to focus on, and what to do if pipes freeze.

As first-time homeowners, my husband and I have learned a lot of simple DIY fixes for little problems and annoyances all around the house. A tiny rip in the window screen? Cover it with mesh tape.

But earlier this spring when we called a plumber after discovering a leak in a guest bathroom faucet, as a last-minute thing, we asked him to check out the butler’s pantry, too. (If we’re paying for ...