Closing Up a Cabin or Empty House for Winter
An empty house in a Montana winter is at real risk. If no one notices the heat failing, a single frozen pipe can flood it for days.
Request a plumberHeat or drain
You have two choices: keep the heat on at a safe level and have someone check regularly, or shut off the water and drain the system. For long absences in a remote spot, draining is safer.
Draining the system
Close the main, open every faucet, flush toilets and drain the water heater after turning off its power or gas. Open low drain valves so water can't sit in the lines.
Traps and toilets
Water left in sink traps and toilet bowls can freeze and crack them. Many owners add plumbing antifreeze made for drains. Never use automotive antifreeze.
Wells and pressure tanks
Turn off the well pump at the breaker and drain the pressure tank if it sits somewhere unheated. Protect the well house from freezing.
Keep an eye on it
A temperature alert device that sends a message if the house gets cold can save the property. Ask a neighbor to check after storms.
Opening up in spring
Close the drains, turn the water on slowly and check every fixture for leaks before turning the water heater back on. A plumber can do the whole job for you; see frozen and burst pipes.
Write it down
Keep a short checklist by the main valve listing every valve you closed and drain you opened, and where the water heater breaker or gas control is. When spring comes, or if someone else opens the house, that list saves time and stops a valve or drain being missed.
More plumbing guides
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