by Roxanne Prather, Member Services Representative

Many of you already do this every year and are familiar with all this, but for those of you who are doing this for the first time this is a helpful check list to follow.

1.  Turn off the water supply:

To do this, find the main water valve and shut it off. This will stop any water from flowing into the cabins pipes and water systems, which will reduce the chance of pipes bursting and water damage. You also want to make sure the water supply is drained.

2. Drain water lines, appliances:

Water is turned off; faucets are turned on: the next step is to prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing damage. Drain your water lines, the water pump, water heater and any other appliances that use water.

Disconnect the hose on the back of your washer and drop it down to the floor to remove any water still in the bottom of the machine. (Put something under it to catch the water so you don’t have a mess.) Then put hose back up and dump a cup full of antifreeze in the washer bottom. Set the washer to a spin out cycle and start the machine for a minute so the antifreeze goes in and shut it off. With dishwashers, you can do the same thing, just put about a cup of antifreeze in and start a drain cycle. Let it go for a minute and shut it off. (In the spring when you open things up just run an empty cycle with soap through the washer and dishwasher to rinse all the antifreeze out before using.)Flush toilets to empty the tanks and pour antifreeze into the tank, stools and all tubs and shower drains. Next, any outdoor faucets need to be opened and drained, disconnect garden hoses (drain water out of hoses while rolling them up).

3.  Septic tank and water pump:

Every year you need to drain your water pump and pressure tank. To do this you need to remove a drain plug or open a faucet. This allows air to enter the tank so the water can run  through and out of the pump. When you think that all the water is out of the pump, use an air compressor to push any water that might still be stuck in the pump. If your cabin has a septic, it is important to have it pumped every few years and treat it before winter arrives. This prevents any freezing or potential backups during the cold months.

4.  Protect your plumbing:

Seal any drafts or holes in exterior walls, especially around pipes or wiring. Use insulation or caulk to seal these gaps. For added protection you might want to consider using heat tape on exposed pipes to prevent freezing. Wrap the electric heat tape around the pipes to provide a constant source of warmth.  You can also use the window treatment kits if you have windows that leak air. This will help with your heating bill as well.

5. Your heating system:

Maintain a safe temperature in your cabin by setting your thermostat to a temperature that will prevent freezing. Some people install a smart thermostat so they can control the temperature remotely. Check and clean your heating system so you can eliminate problems during the winter.

6.  Prepare appliances and electrical systems:

 Unplug all appliances (Believe it or not the clock on the range does use electricity.) If  you have a gas water heater, make sure you extinguish the pilot light. This will help make sure there is no gas consumption and reduce the risk of accidents. Clean any air filters and make sure the heating system is working properly.

7. Seal crawl spaces and insulate

Most cabins have air spaces under the cabin. Make sure you insulate and cover this so no cold air can get in and to keep critters from trying to make a home for winter under your cabin.

Enjoy your winter!