How to Winterize a Vacant House

When you have an investment such as a house that is going to be vacant for any period of time during winter months you want to make sure you know how to winterize a vacant house properly.

Here are a few very important tips to follow when you find yourself in this situation.

Instructions

1. 

   Leave on the Utilities: Though our first instincts are to save money and shut off the utilities this could actually end up costing you a lot more in the long run. During the time your house will be vacant you want to keep the heat on low to help protect the inside of your home.

   Extreme temperature changes can cause your walls and woodwork to warp as well as many other costly problems, which makes this step an important step when you are trying to winterize your soon to be vacant home.

2. 

   Wrap Those Pipes: Don't come back to find your pipes have burst and you have to replace them and everything the potential flood hazard can damage, so when you winterize your home make sure to wrap them up.

   Wrap all exposed piping and water sources inside and outside with insulation to help protect it during winter times. This means even those pipes under the cupboards and your water heater. You can find the materials for that at your local Home Depot or other home improvement stores.

3. 

   Let it Run: Do not completely turn off your water. To better help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting or other potential issues leave a faucet trickling.

   It is recommended that you leave on the faucet furthest away from where the water enters the home. And any items that contain standing water such as toilets ask your home improvement warehouse what can be added to those to help prevent the water from freezing and potentially cracking the bowl.

4. 

   Inspect Everything: Have someone come in and inspect your roof for leaks or damage that can worsen in winter temperatures. This is an important step to take when you winterize your home, especially if it is going to be vacant.

5. 

   Ask a Specialist: Ask a specialist about how to winterize a vacant house and see if they can offer up any additional information just to be sure you have all your bases covered.

Resources

• Home Depot