Winterization Checklist

NOTICE: This page is in development. Do not use it until this notice is removed.

This page will discuss how to winterize a homes plumbing system. It focuses on houses, condos, townhomes, etc.

Objective

The objective of winterizing a home is to remove water from all piping, both supply lines and waste lines, and anything else that may have standing water in it.

Assumptions

The following assumptions are made in this document.
  1. Heat to the home is not provided by circulating hot water or steam. If it is, consult with a professional for winterization services of this heating system.

Request for Feedback

If you find any inaccuracies in this document, or suggestions for its improvement please email them to: martin-at-abacusinspection.com.

Limitation of Liability

Abacus Inspection Service will accept no liability for errors or omissions in this document. There is no way for us to cover every condition that you may encounter. Use this document as a guideline, not as the rule.

Tools You Will Need


Method

The order of these steps is important. Follow them in sequence.

  1. Turn off water supply at the water main
  2. Turn off gas/electric to the water heater
  3. Install one end of a garden hose onto the drain valve of the water heater
  4. Run the other end of the garden hose to a nearby drain, or to the exterior of the home where water will run away from the home to a safe place.
  5. Open the drain valve on the water heater
  6. Open a hot water faucet valve somewhere in the home
  7. Disconnect hoses to the clothes washer
  8. Blow out water from the sprinkler system if it exists

Appliances

  1. Condensing furnaces (90%+)
  2. refrigerator ice line
  3. washing machine hoses, supply and drain
  4. dishwasher supply line
  5. line up to shower head