Plan on spending a week or more of the cold weather months in a warm weather climate? If you’re following the sun this winter, make sure your water pipes won’t give you an unwelcome surprise when you return. Pipes burst by freezing can cause tremendous damage.
Protect your home while you’re away. If you expect to be away a week or more, shut off the water supply at your water meter. Insulate exposed water pipes in unheated areas such as a crawlspace, attic, or outside wall. Exterior faucets should have their water supply shut off from inside the house. If your water meter is in a cabinet or some other enclosed space, allow heated air to circulate by opening its door or access panel. Turn the thermostat down to 55 degrees before you leave; turn your water heater to the ‘pilot’ setting. Have a neighbor check your home every week or so while you are away to make sure everything is okay.
To assure your protection against pipe breaks or unauthorized use while you’re away, close down your main water valve and have the Township turn service off at the curb and restore it upon your return for $50.