Here are some tips for closing your cabin for the winter season.
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Drain Your Pipes and Water Heater
Assuming that you are not heating your cabin during the winter months, ensure that you drain the pipes and shut off the water supply.
You can do this by attaching a hose to the lowest point in the plumbing and then use an air compressor to effectively blow out all of the water.
It’s also imperative to drain your water heater. To bleed the pipes and water heater lines, you can use a recreational vehicle antifreeze, which is not as toxic as regular antifreeze.
After you turn off the water, turn on the faucet again to ensure that no water is left in the pipes, otherwise you risk of water freezing and causing your pipes to burst.
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Pump and Insulate Your Septic Tank
If your cabin has a septic tank, it’s a good idea to have it pumped out in advance of the winter season – especially if you haven’t had it pumped in a while. This will prevent it from leaking and potentially contaminating groundwater.
It’s also important to insulate your septic tank by covering it with a layer of straw or leaves, which will have an insulating effect and prevent it from freezing.
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Insulate Exposed Pipes and Check For Air Leaks
If you’re planning to stay in your cabin occasionally throughout the winter months, set the thermostat at 50 degrees and open your cabinets to allow heat to circulate through to the pipes.
Just like you would insulate any exposed pipes in your home, the same is true to prevent exposed pipes in your cabin from freezing. Keep in mind that insulating your pipes is important whether you’re heating your cabin or not.
You can wrap them with heat tape or you can use controlled heat cables (ensure, however, that you pay careful attention to the manufacturer’s directions).
Again, just like winterizing your home, it’s important to check your cabin for any possible air leaks that could cause your pipes to freeze.
Pay particular attention to any air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents and so on (essentially, anywhere where your pipes are located). If you notice any leaks, seal with caulking or insulation.
If you are in need of professional plumbing services, consider Imagine Plumbing. Imagine Plumbing is among Alberta’s leading professional plumbers. Contact us today for more information or call us at 844-397-2588.