Winterizing Your Summer Home

Preparing your summer home for winter will help avoid messy spring cleanup due to broken water pipes. Fortunately, it is a simple quick and simple process.

Shut off main water supply at street or basement.
If you have a private water supply, turn off the pump and drain the pressure tank.

1. Shut off gas lines at entrance to home if present.
   
2. Open all faucets and leave them open to empty pipes.
   
3. Drain water heater and leave valve open.
   
4. Remove all water from toilet tanks and bowls.
   
5. Pour RV antifreeze in toilet bowl and a small amount in tank.
   
6. Pour enough RV antifreeze in sink drains and shower drains to fill traps.
   
7. If you choose to remove drain traps, plug line to block sewer gas.
   
8. Unplug refrigerator, thoroughly clean, and prop open the door.
   
9. Unplug all electrical items, except lights on timers.
   

• Set thermostat back to 50 degrees.
  
• Keep heat on in any areas where there are water or drain pipes.
  
• If this is impractical, wrap them with electric heat tape.
  

1. Loosen tie-downs slightly to allow for frost heaves.
   
2. Make sure all shims are tight in the blocks on foundation piers.
   
3. Recaulk and secure all siding as needed.
   
4. Replace damaged roofing shingles or recoat a metal roof.
   
5. Weatherstrip and caulk windows, doors, vents and openings for water pipes.
   

Related Articles:
Snow Dangers
The Safe Way to Thaw Frozen Pipes
The Safe Way to Thaw Frozen Pipes in Southern States
Electrical Tape Safety Alert
Unclogging Drains
20 Plumbing Do's and Don'ts
Call Before You Dig
Everyday Plumbing Tips
DIY - Links

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