Lessons from the Blizzard

Owners of seashore vacation homes may have a different plan for their homes next winter. 

Many want the flexibility of keeping their homes “up and running” for an occasional weekend visit.  But if schedules and weather prevent regular trips, winterizing the property provides peace of mind.    To winterize, a plumber turns the water off at the curb, and uses a compressor to blow air through the pipes.  Anti-freeze is poured in the toilets, washer, and dishwasher, and the ice maker line is disconnected.  The heat can be turned off, but some owners prefer low heat settings to prevent musty furniture/fabrics.

A whole house turn off valve is helpful, but water is still in the toilets, drains, and bottom of the dishwasher.   The power outages last week meant no heat- and the risk for frozen pipes.

Another alternative is a winter watch service.  Property management companies, or individual handyman types inspect the property several times each month- and specifically after a storm.  This may not seem necessary when you live less than 2 hours away- but life does not always allow you to drop everything and drive down to the shore.