Day 5 HomeWinterization

As we wrap up our Home Winterization Series, today’s focus is one of the most overlooked risks: winterizing an unoccupied home. Whether it’s a vacant property, a second home, or a home waiting to sell, winter doesn’t care if no one is there.

Winterizing an Unoccupied Home

Adequate winterization is especially crucial for homes that are left unoccupied during the winter. This situation often arises when homeowners with multiple properties leave one home vacant for months while they occupy their summer retreat. Foreclosed homes are sometimes left unoccupied as well. The heat may be shut off in these vacant homes to save money. However, such homes must be winterized to prevent catastrophic building damage.

Steps to Winterize an Unoccupied Home

1. Winterize Toilets

   Empty toilets completely. This prevents freezing and cracking.

   
   

2. Use Antifreeze

   Pour antifreeze into toilets and other plumbing fixtures to protect them from freezing.

   
   

3. Winterize Faucets

   Open all faucets and leave them open. This allows any remaining water to drain out.

   
   

4. Drain Water Tanks and Pumps

   Completely drain all water from indoor and outdoor plumbing. This is essential to avoid burst pipes.

   
   

5. Unplug Non-Essential Appliances

   Unplug all non-essential electrical appliances, especially the refrigerator. If no electrical appliances are needed, consider shutting off the electricity at the main breaker.

   
   

The Importance of Winter Preparation

Winter preparation is about awareness, prevention, and protection. This five-day series covered the most common issues home inspectors see once temperatures drop. If you’re unsure about any part of your home, a professional inspection can help you move into winter with confidence.

Why Choose a Professional Inspection?

At Eagle Vision Inspection Services, we’re proud to help homeowners identify concerns early. Our goal is to ensure that winter doesn’t turn small issues into big problems. We understand the unique challenges faced by homeowners, especially those with unoccupied properties.

Contact Us Today

To learn more about what we can do for you, call us today at 256-750-0259. We are here to help you make informed decisions about your home. Remember, winterizing your unoccupied home is not just a task; it’s a crucial step in protecting your investment.

In conclusion, winterizing an unoccupied home is essential. By taking the right steps, you can prevent costly damages and ensure your property remains safe and secure. Don’t wait until it’s too late—act now to protect your home this winter.