A "Cabin Maintenance Checklist" for the changing seasons, how to Winterize

Jan 10

Alright, things just got…chilly. We have all been anxiously waiting for those romantic snowy nights, but the reality is that we are officially in the season where pipes can freeze...which is less than romantic depending on what your into, no judgement on our end but your pocket book might feel differently. If you plan to vacate your home between visits, winterizing is the best way to keep your plumbing happy and avoid an unwelcome (and costly) “indoor water feature” you definitely did not order.

The "Vacant Home" Winterization Checklist

If you are leaving for more than a few days, follow these steps to ensure you return to a dry, happy house.

1. The Big Shut Off

Main Water Valve: Locate your main shut off (usually in the "sub-area" or crawl space where the water enters the house). Turn it off completely.
Water Heater: If you have an electric heater, turn the breaker OFF. If it is gas, turn it to the "Vacation" or "Pilot" setting.
Crucial: Never drain a water heater while the power or gas is still fully on, as you will burn out the heating elements or damage the tank.

2. The Great Drain

Once the main valve is off, you need to get the "pressurized" water out of the lines:

Open All Faucets: Start at the highest floor and work your way down. Leave them open.
Exterior Hose Bibs: Disconnect all hoses and leave the outdoor faucets open.
Flush the Toilets: Flush every toilet until the tank is empty. This prevents the tank from cracking if the water inside freezes.

3. Antifreeze is Your Friend

Even if you drain the pipes, water stays in the "P-traps" (the U-shaped pipes under your sinks and showers) and the bottom of the toilet bowl.

RV Antifreeze: Pour about a half cup of non-toxic RV antifreeze (the pink stuff) into every sink drain, shower drain, and toilet bowl. This keeps that standing water from freezing and breaking the porcelain or PVC.

4. Thermostat Strategy

The "Magic" Number: Set your heat to 55°F. Its ideal not to turn it off entirely. This keeps the air inside the walls just warm enough to prevent any residual moisture in the pipes from reaching the freezing point.
Open Cabinet Doors: Leave the doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks open. This allows the room's warmth to reach the plumbing hidden inside the cabinets.

Local "Pro" Tip for Arnold

Snow Poles: If you are vacating, make sure your driveway "snow poles" (the tall orange or green markers) are visible so the snowplows don't accidentally take out your retaining wall or landscaping while you're gone.

Stay warm, stay cozy, and know we’re always here if you need anything this season.