Winter is coming. Are you and your beach house ready?
If you’re staying in your beach house during the winter…
- Test your heating system
- Do a test run by setting the thermostat to 80℉.
- Schedule season routine maintenance
- Replace your air filter.
- Fuel up if you have a propane or oil tank system.
- Winterize AC system
- Clean the unit.
- Use a hose to rinse the dirt off.
- Consider covering the unit with a waterproof cover specifically made for this.
- Inspect chimney and fireplace
- Check chimney and make sure it is clear.
- Open and close flue to ensure proper functioning.
- Have your chimney professionally cleaned.
- Protect your pipes
- Insulate any exposed water or drain pipes.
- Turn off water supply and drain water from faucets.
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
- Insulate areas
- Insulate your hot water tank, exterior outlets, and switch plates
If you’re leaving your beach house vacant for the winter…
- Make your home look occupied
- Forward your mail.
- Stop newspaper delivery.
- Arrange for someone to periodically check your home.
- Prepare and protect your plumbing, pipes and water supply
- Completely turn off water supply
- Drain your pipes by opening all faucets and flushing all toilets to empty the water from tank and bowl.
- Drain your water system, seal drains, and turn off heating systems. You may also turn off utilities for additional savings.
- Perform routine maintenance before you leave
- Have your heating system inspected and serviced.
- Set thermostats around 55℉.
- If electrical service to the home is to remain on, consider having a licensed electrical contractor inspect your main electrical panel, wiring and outlets.
- Have your roof inspected and your gutters cleaned out.
- Remove dead trees or overhanging limbs that are close to your home as a preventative measure.
- Unplug all unnecessary appliances.
- Turn off all outdoor water – Empty all exterior hoses and water pipes to prevent the water in them from freezing and bursting. A professional will used compressed air to ensure all water is removed from piping.
- Lock windows and screen doors to prevent them from opening.
- Storing items
- It is recommended that your refrigerator is completely emptied and unplugged with the doors left open to prevent any smell. Store dry goods in plastic bins to prevent the risk of infestation.
- Pillows, linens, couch cushions, etc. should be stored in storage bins to keep the moisture out.
- Clean the oven.
- Inspect your home for any openings where animals could get in. Make sure fireplace flue is closed.
- Prepare for emergencies
- Provide the local police department with your emergency contact information.
- Install storm shutters.
- Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Ask someone you trust to check on your home periodically and give them access in case of an emergency.