Winterizing Vacation Homes

Water System

1. Shut off water systems by turning off the pump or
shutting the valve if on city water. Drain the pressure
tank.

2. Open all faucets.

3. Break a union close to the valve so water will drain
out clear to the shut-off valve.

4. Drain pump and run a second or two to be sure all
water is out of lines from the pump.

5. Flush toilets and dip all water out of the flush tank.

6. Be sure to drain flexible spray hoses in showers and
sinks.

7. Drain water softeners so water will drain back from
soft water pipes and controls. Brine tank will probably
not freeze.

8. Drain water heaters.

Heating Systems

Electric heating systems require no maintenance other
than shutting off the power to the heating units.

Hot air heating systems:

1. Turn off burner emergency switch which is often
located at the top of the stairs.

2. Drain humidifier which is usually located on the
furnace.

Forced hot water and steam systems: Drain all water
in the system unless the liquid contains anti-freeze. It
is wise to have this type of system drained by a plumber
unless you are well-informed on the procedures necessary.

Winterize your summer home as you do your winter
home. To help conserve energy when the home is not
occupied, install a low-heat thermostat. By doing this
your home could be maintained at abut 40 F. without a
freeze-up, rather than at 55 F. which is the lowest
temperature at which most thermostats can be set.

Washer and dishwasher

Water left in hoses and internal components can
cause damage when it freezes.

Shut off water supply to clothes washer. Remove and
drain inlet hoses. Clear water valve by setting timer
for fill cycle. Press warm water button and run machine a
few seconds. Drain water from drain hose. Disconnect
electrical supply.

For a dishwasher, remove inlet and outlet connection
to the valve. Operate valve to remove any water. Remove
drain hose from the pump and drain. Disconnect electrical
supply.

It is also a good idea to clean the equipment and to
protect the finish with a coat of appliance polish.

Stored items

1. Remove food, cosmetics, or medicine containers that
contain liquid that would freeze from shelves.

2. Food in paper or plastic containers should be put in
large metal containers to protect from mice or other
rodents.

3. Remove or hide articles in the house that can be sold
and converted to cash such as guns, radios, TV sets, tools
or other valuables.

Sewage system

1. Force as much water as possible out of traps with a
plunger.

2. Add antifreeze to each trap so you have at least a 50%
solution of ethylene – glycol and water. Sometimes fuel
oil can be substituted for antifreeze.

3. Check for traps in these locations: kitchen sinks,
bathroom sinks, bathtub and/or shower drains, toilets,
washtubs, floor drains and maybe a sump pump.

Keep out animals

1. Cover chimneys tightly so that raccoons cannot enter
the house, or birds fall down the chimney.

2. Stop up any places in the foundation or around the
eaves where squirrels, chipmunks, mice or other small
animals can enter.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus.