Throughout various regions, the techniques and steps required to winterize a house will vary. Here in the midwest, we experience a few cold spells in which the temperature can stay below 15 degrees fahrenheit for a week or longer. There are also various levels in which you can winterize a house. For instance, if the pilot light is going to be left on, the water heater does not need to be drained. Even if a house has been winterized, there can still be problems. For this reason, it is recommended to leave the furnace on to prevent the house from getting to low.

Draining the Supply Lines

Most people are familiar with the process of draining the down the water lines in their house. Open the plumbing system at it's lowest point and allow some time for the system to drain. Opening a fixture on the top floor can also help the system drain. Often, this does not get all the water out without the use of a compressor. A special fitting can be installed to force compressed air through the line.

Toilets & Sinks

Flush all of the water out of the toilet and fill tank with anti-freeze. You should also pour anti-freeze down every sink drain to prevent the p-trap from breaking.

Appliances

Often people forget about the need to winterize their appliances when leaving a house vacant for the winter. A dishwasher and washing machine can both be damaged if not winterized. This is as simple as adding some anti-freeze and turning the setting to drain.

 
If you need help winterizing a house in Kansas City, please contact KCHC. We are fully licensed and insured as a master plumbing contractor.