Cottage Care - Winterizing you Cottage

1. Shut off water systems by turning off the pump or shutting the valve if on city water. Drain the pressure tank.
2. Open all faucets.
3. Break a union close to the valve so water will drain out clear to the shut-off valve.
4. Drain pump and run a second or two to be sure all water is out of lines from the pump.
5. Flush toilets and dip all water out of the flush tank.
6. Be sure to drain flexible spray hoses in showers and sinks.
7. Drain water softeners so water will drain back from soft water pipes and controls. Brine tank will probably not freeze.
8. Drain water heaters.

Stored Items

1. Remove food, cosmetics, or medicine containers that contain liquid that would freeze from shelves.
2. Food in paper or plastic containers should be put in large metal containers to protect from mice or other rodents.
3. Remove or hide articles in the house that can be sold and converted to cash such as guns, radios, TV sets, tools or other valuables.

Sewage System

1. Force as much water as possible out of traps with a plunger.
2. Add antifreeze to each trap so you have at least a 50% solution of ethylene - glycol and water. Sometimes fuel oil can be substituted for antifreeze.
3. Check for traps in these locations: kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, bathtub and/or shower drains, toilets, washtubs, floor drains and maybe a sump pump.

Keep Out Animals

1. Cover chimneys tightly so that raccoons cannot enter the house, or birds fall down the chimney.
2. Stop up any places in the foundation or around the eaves where squirrels, chipmunks, mice or other small animals can enter.

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