If it is time to close up the cabin or summer home for the winter, here are some very helpful hints on how to winterize water pipe and drains so they won’t freeze and burst.
It a house or building that has a water supply going into the structure is going be setting with vacant with temperatures in the house below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, it is important to drain the water lines.
To do this, the water will need to be shut off.
Next, let air into the system by turning on a faucet, leave the faucet “on” during the draining period. Shut to off position when all water has been drained.
Flush the toilet to remove all water in it as well. Lift the lid on the tank to be sure all of the water has emptied out.
The water in the lines should be drained from the lowest area possible. Water from the water heater should be drained into a bucket and disposed of. The water should flow out in surges and you will hear gurgling and maybe even high pitched sounds coming from the pipes. This process may take a while. A harden hose can be used to drain the water heater if the hose can be stretched outside.
Once the inside water has been drained, go outside to check the outdoor faucet. Turn the faucet to the on position to allow all water to drain out. Shut it off when finished.
Once all water has been drained, pouring some antifreeze into the lines will prevent freezing. Pour approximately, two cups of RV antifreeze into each sink drain and about a quart into the toilet bowl and a cup in the tank. Pour another cup down the tub and the kitchen sink drains. Adding antifreeze to the washing machine drain is also an option.
The link below will take you to the article that elaborates greatly on the processes mentioned here, as well as, additional appliances that may have water flowing to them.
It is best to be diligent about draining all of the water out of the lines when closing down a house for the winter. For more how to’s view the link:Winterizing Home Plumbing Supply and Drain Pipes To Prevent Frozen or Burst Lines In A Vacant House
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