Winterizing Before You Head South for the Winter

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

It’s the holiday season. Thanksgiving has past and Christmas is weeks away. In Michigan the snow is beginning to fly, because of this many of our lucky residence are also flying south for the winter.

• Turn down the heat (but don’t turn it off)

You’ve probably heard horror stories about pipes freezing and bursting in the cold winter months. To avoid this fate, don’t turn your heat off during winter. If you’re leaving your house empty, setting the thermostat to 55 degrees is usually enough to keep your pipes from freezing. Leave cabinet doors open so heat can better circulate around your pipes.

• Clean the fridge!

It’s important to take the time to do a thorough fridge and freezer clean out, using, giving away, or tossing items. If possible unplug your refrigerator and empty it entirely, defrosting your freezer, wiping down doors and shelving, and leaving doors propped open to prevent mildew and mold.

• Repel rodents

The weather is cold which causes pest to seek warmth and shelter. Nonperishable food items should be kept in sealed, airtight containers with lids. Empty trash bins and remove any recycling before you leave the house. Vacuum and clean floors thoroughly, removing traces of food or debris that might attract vermin.

• Unplug inessential appliances

Enough said. There is no need to waste electricity.

• Drain your pipes!

Pipes that leak or burst in your absence can be a costly and destructive welcome home. If you live in a place that gets cold enough for pipes to freeze and you have pipes running through unconditioned parts of your house (meaning areas that aren’t heated), then you must take steps to protect them. Turn water off at the main supply, open all faucets, and drain pipes of water.

If you forget to take these precautionary steps to avoid damage while your away remember SERVPRO of Allegan/Barry is “Always here to Help”

 Call our Office! 269-686-0664