Individuals that own vacation property in the Outer Banks must take special precautions in the winter. While Outer Banks temperatures are not extreme, temperatures do reach freezing. This increases the likelihood of pipes freezing and bursting. When this occurs, it can cause significant damage. This especially true for vacation properties, where it’s likely the problem will go undiscovered for quite some time. It’s crucial that property owners do all they can to prevent problems caused by freezing temperatures.
Some property owners choose to have someone stay in their home during the winter. This might be a family member, friend, or neighbor. They may also consider renting their property throughout the off season. As long as the heat remains on in the vacation home, the property is safe from damage caused by freezing temperatures.
If your vacation property will be left vacant throughout the winter, it’s important you take the necessary steps to properly winterize your home. In addition to the following steps you might want to consider installing sensors that detect problems the moment they occur. This can help reduce the amount of damage to your property.
Dry Winterizing
Make sure to fix any plumbing problems prior to dry winterizing your home. This is crucial for proper pressurization.
- Shut off the water at the meter and place a zip tie around it. If necessary, contact your local water company to have the water turned off at the street.
- Switch off the hot water tank and drain it. Follow the instructions on the tank for proper drainage.
- Flush all of the toilets in your home. Turn the water off at the shut off valves.
- Pressurize pipes using an air compressor. Do not exceed 60 psi; 35 psi is ideal.
- Drain as much water as you can out of the system. Turn every sink, shower, and toilet on and off a few times letting them sputter for about thirty seconds each.
- Disconnect and plug the water meter. You’ll need to make sure that you have the correct size plug for your water service. Contact your water company with questions.
- Use RV/marine antifreeze to prevent freezing of water in toilets and pipes. DO NOT use vehicle antifreeze. Remove water from the toiler reservoir and fill with antifreeze to ensure an adequate level in both the tank and bowl. Cover the toilet bowl with plastic wrap to prevent evaporation. Add antifreeze to showers, bathtubs, and sinks.
- Many homeowners leave their heater set at 50 degrees throughout the winter. This provides an additional layer of protection during freezing temperatures.
- Make sure you leave proper notice of winterization. Leave a note on the breaker to refill the water heater prior to switching on the breaker. Leave notes on toilets and sinks to prevent use prior to de-winterization. It’s important to leave all notes about winterization indoors. Posting notes outside alerts potential intruders of an empty house.
AirHandlers OBX has years of experience providing HVAC installation, service, and repair to homeowners throughout Outer Banks, NC. Please contact us for more information about keeping your Outer Banks vacation home safe throughout the winter.
