The purpose of winterizing your home is to remove water which can freeze from within the pipelines and other areas.
"Winterize Yourself":
Turn off the heat source to the furnace and water heater.
If the water heater is electric or oil, turn off the power at the switch.
If the water heater is gas, you must turn off the gas valve. In most cases, you can turn off the furnace by switching off the electrical power supply.
Close the main water valve or supply to your home. This valve is usually located in the basement or laundry room of your home.
After the main valve has been securely turned off, open (or turn on) all inside faucets -- kitchen sink, bathroom sinks, tubs, showers and laundry room basin -- and all outside faucets. Also, be sure to remove garden hoses from the outside spigots. The purpose of opening all faucets is to drain all water from the pipelines within, and outside of, the home.
Drain the water heater.
Wrap "exposed" pipe with insulation. When water cannot be totally removed from the exposed pipelines, a heat tape can be used.
Respectfully,
Lynnette R. Nester
Community Manager
Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA)
Accredited Association Management Company (AAMC)
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