It is true that many homes are winterized every year without a problem, usually by the owner or a convenient handyman. However, large repair bills may result if it is done improperly or incompletely. If a house requires winterizing, we suggest that a professional plumber does it.
Who Should Do the Winterization?
It is wise to have your plumbing and heating system winterized by a professional unless you are well-informed on the necessary procedures.
The simplest solution and least risky solution to winterizing is to leave the heating system running at a minimum setting, with the water turned off of course. Though, at first glance, this may seem like a waste of money and energy, a minimal heating bill will be less expensive than the cost of potential repair if the pipes freeze. Additionally, extreme winter temperatures and low humidity in a winterized home may stress the interior of the house. Wood trim, furniture and appliance seals may dry out and crack.
Turning Off Water
As a side note, it is always prudent to turn off the main water supply or well pump whenever you will be gone even for one or two days. If a property is supplied by a well, a major leak can cause the well pump to run itself to death, causing significant damage.
Consider that, if a house is on the market, a cold, winterized house does not show well. When a potential buyer does come along, it is necessary to de-winterize the house before an inspection can be done. This de-winterization will mean extra cost and more delays. Of course, you will want Harwich Port Heating and Cooling to perform the necessary inspection. On the other hand, plumbing that is exposed in crawlspaces, or homes without central heating, may be at risk for frozen pipes and require winterization. Many vacation homes just are not built for winter use and should be protected as well. Winterization may be the safest choice for older homes or poorly built homes that are poorly insulated and/or unevenly heated.