Why Running Water Is Essential in Gulf Coast Homes — Even at 20–30° Weather

When temperatures drop on the Gulf Coast, most homeowners don’t think much about frozen pipes — after all, we’re known for mild winters, not icy ones. But even here along the Mississippi and Louisiana coasts, temperatures can occasionally fall into the 20s and 30s, putting your plumbing at real risk. Knowing why you should keep your water running during cold weather can help you avoid costly repairs and major water damage.

1. Gulf Coast Homes Aren’t Built for Freezing Temperatures

Unlike homes in northern climates, most houses along the Gulf Coast aren’t insulated for long periods of cold. Many water lines run through crawl spaces, attics, or exterior walls — areas that can easily drop below freezing during a cold snap. When temperatures hit 30° or lower, the water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and burst, leading to leaks once the ice thaws.

Keeping a slow trickle of water running through your faucets — especially those on exterior walls — helps prevent freezing. Moving water doesn’t freeze as easily as still water, keeping your pipes safe and flowing.

2. The Cost of Prevention Is Far Less Than Repairs

A burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in water damage and cleanup. Letting your faucet drip overnight might add a small bump to your water bill, but it’s far cheaper than replacing drywall, flooring, and plumbing lines after a freeze.

Think of it as insurance for your plumbing system — a simple preventive measure that protects your home and wallet.

3. Protect Outdoor and Uninsulated Areas

Outdoor spigots, garages, and laundry rooms are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Before the cold sets in:

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses.

• Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers.

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

• Let interior faucets drip slowly overnight.

These small steps make a big difference when temperatures dip.

4. Gulf Coast Weather Can Change Fast

Our region’s cold snaps often come with little warning. Even a few hours below freezing can be enough to damage pipes that aren’t insulated. Keeping a close eye on forecasts and running water during cold nights helps you stay ahead of sudden temperature drops.

5. Peace of Mind During Winter

Running water isn’t just about avoiding damage — it’s about keeping your home functional and stress-free when the weather turns cold. Knowing you’ve taken preventive steps means no scrambling to find a plumber in the middle of a freeze.

Stay Prepared with Professional Winter Plumbing Maintenance

At Cole’s Plumbing, we help Gulf Coast homeowners get their plumbing ready for winter with inspections, insulation, and maintenance plans tailored for our unique climate. Whether it’s checking vulnerable pipes or protecting your water heater, we’ll make sure your system is ready to handle the cold.