How do you winterize a cottage?

Question

I was wondering how to blow out the water pipes. I have a water pump that pumps the water from the lake and a water heater, kitchen and bathroom sinks, one toilet and shower. The heat will not be left on.

Answer 1

I wouldn't completely blow all of the water out, especially the traps because you will get sewer gas back into the cottage. Instead use some RV antifreeze and add it to all the traps, including the toilet. Also, if you have a dishwasher and/or washer you will need to add antifreeze to them as well. There are some pretty good suggestions in these articles:
http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-1241.html
Good luck

Answer 2

Hey Bud,
I know this sounds a little more involved but it's the way that's worked for me for years.
1. Install an air inlet valve so you can blow out the system. Install a drain outside below ground so you can clear out the service line too. you said you have a pump are you going to remove it?? Maybe you wont need the outside drain if the line is open but if you have a check valve that will stop to water from leaveing the line.
2. The other answers about the RV antifreeze is good advice. I plung out most of the water and then add the antifreeze. Dont forget the tank.. Add to dishwasher and washer after you have turned them on and with air pressure purged all water form supply lines. If you have an ice maker purge it too.
Its best to let the air build up, be sure to turn on the shower head and let it blow out all the water. This take a little money to set up at first but its only one time for the cost. It takes a little time and you may want to blow it out a couple times.
Hope this helps a little.
Oldguy

Answer 3

Don't forget The drain pipes if there will be no heat. Anything with a trap can freeze and break, this includes your toilet. As for the water supply lines I would start by shutting off the water opening the highest fixture and the lowest (hose bib maybe). This will allow the water in the pipes to drain. Check your pump to see if it has a drain on it. hook a hose to your hot water tank at the bottom and drain. Hope some of this helps, hard to judge not knowing how your house is plumbed.

Answer 4

Give the 10 to Steve in NC. I especially agree with anti freeze; unless it will be sewaged at some point, back into the lake.

I came in to recall some memories of growing up on a farm in upstate NY, near Lake Ontario, and brutal winters. My grandfather would drain every bit of fluid out of every vehicle; including motor oil, every night in the worst of it.

There are some details you didn't mention; but might consider; such as the depth of any plumbing, under ground; and certainly any TRAPS that exist. I'd hate to return in April to find white porcelain blown all over the bathroom, where the toilet used to be.

Two cents more, then I wish you success. I mentioned to Steve, in a question he asked, about evolution in the trades. This Q causes me to wonder if there isn't a PUMP, that might vacuum/evacuate systems in a winterizing process; and if not; why not?

Come to FL. It's gonna be a decent winter here. :)

Steven Wolf

Answer 5

check this out
http://www.handycanadian.com/articles-winterizing-your-cottage.asp

pick me :) for the best answer ever