Winter Plumbing Prep For Snowbirds (2024)

FAQs

Winter Plumbing Prep For Snowbirds? ›

Shut off the water to washing machines and dishwashers where possible, to avoid any leaks or broken hoses while you are away. Turn off the heat source and water supply to hot water heaters (if separate from your boiler). Consider shutting off and draining outdoor faucets to prevent water damage due to freezing.

Protect faucets, outdoor pipes, and pipes in unheated areas with pipe insulation. In a pinch, wrapping them with rags, newspapers, trash bags, plastic foam or even bubble wrap can add needed protection. Cover any vents around your home's foundation. Drain water hoses and store them in a garage or shed.

Shut Off The Water Heater

If you have an electric heater, it can be turned off at the breaker. Once off, you can open the valve or spigot on the water heater to drain the water into a pail or bucket.

Indoor temperature: Set your thermostat to no lower than 55 degrees. This will allow you to save on your energy bill while ensuring your house never gets cold enough for the pipes to freeze. Windows and doors: Keep them locked so they don't accidentally swing open on a windy or stormy day.

Wrap pipes with heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables. Be sure to follow all manufacturers' installation and operation instructions. Seal leaks that allow cold air inside, near where pipes are located (i.e. around electrical wiring, dryer vents, other pipes), with caulk or insulation.

Start by identifying faucets that are connected to pipes in unheated or exposed areas, such as exterior walls, unheated attics, basem*nts, or crawl spaces, since these are most at risk. In general, you should let at least one faucet drip in each section of your home.

To prevent damage to your home, it is advisable to turn off the main shut-off valve before going on a vacation. You can find the main valve in the basem*nt, crawlspaces, concrete slab, or the attic.

Frozen pipes can cause serious water damage to your home. The warm water your heater produces will continue circulating your system and prevent the leaks, cracks, and burst pipes that freezing can cause. Leave your water heater on to avoid frozen pipes and accompanying damage to your property.

However, turning your heat too low or off completely can leave you with a bigger issue than a high energy bill – burst pipes and damaged property. And if you're not home when a loss occurs and the damage isn't addressed immediately, you could be dealing with a serious issue.

How long can a house go without heat before pipes freeze? ›

As temperatures continue to drop, so does the amount of time required for pipes to freeze completely and eventually burst. Depending on various factors, the water inside pipes can start freezing in just 6 hours, though it's more common to see damage and issues after one to three days of subfreezing temperatures.

But while a lower temperature may reduce your heating bill, it could mean disaster if a cold temperatures hit, and your pipes freeze and burst. This doesn't mean you have to keep your house as warm as normal — any temperature 55 degrees or higher is appropriate to keep your pipes safe.

Pipes can still burst in freezing temperatures even after you turn off your home's water. The pipes will still have water inside them, which means the water may freeze and potentially burst your pipes.

If you do decide to do so, remember to also turn off your water heater as well. Wi-Fi thermostats are perfect for snowbirds. These digital controls connect to your smartphone through an app, where you can monitor and control your home's indoor temperature.

Whether you plan to leave for a vacation or for the season, most heating and cooling professionals recommend setting the thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will reduce your heating costs and minimize the risk for hazards such as frozen or burst pipes and flooding.

Your pipes are at risk of freezing any time temperatures drop below 32°F. However, it's much more common for pipes to freeze when temperatures dip below 20°F. The longer the weather remains below freezing, the more likely it is your pipes can freeze if not properly protected and winterized.

Your house will typically retain enough heat to keep water pipes from freezing for about two days after losing power and heat. Conserve the heat inside your house by keeping doors and windows closed and running only properly vented gas fireplaces and gas logs.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Moving water keeps pipes from freezing. Find shut off valves for emergencies. Insulate pipes in unheated areas. Open cupboards and vanities to warm pipes.