If you have a house that is going to be vacant this winter it is important to winterize the property. Failure to do so can cause dramatic and costly damage. Don't get caught by surprise; here is a checklist of what needs to be done to protect your vacant home.
- Turn down the thermostat so the house will stay at 50 – 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Seal small cracks around windows and doors to keep the warm air in and the cold air out.
- Remove all outside hoses from water spouts
- Make sure smoke detectors are working on every floor.
- Place mothballs in the house to prevent rodents and insects.
- Post signs in appropriate places saying, "Winterized – Do Not Use!"
- Make arrangements for snow and ice removal. Contact your Ruhl&Ruhl sales associate to find an Approved Vendor in your area or visit RuhlHomes.com/Vendors to see all vendors in your area.
We recommend having a professional plumber complete the following tasks. Again, it's important to use an Approved Vendor – visit
RuhlHomes.com/Vendors for a list recommended by
our agents and staff.
- Shut off water supply to all outside faucets and lawn sprinkler systems. Drain related pipes and blow out with air pressure.
- Shut off water supply to all sinks, bathtubs and showers. Drain all fixtures and pipes with air pressure.
- Shut off power to well pump if applicable. Drain the well holding tank.
- Add anti-freeze to toilets, dishwashers and washing machines.
- Check boiler pressure valve to insure proper water pressure is maintained. If the house is heated by a hot water heater DO NOT shut of water supply to the boiler.
By winterizing your vacant house you are
protecting your investment and keeping it in good condition so it can be
sold. Though certain precautions should be made, the unexpected still happens. Make sure you or your agent checks on the home periodically. A quick glance around the house can make a huge difference!
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