Whether you have weathered all the seasons in Marblemount with your cabin or have only experienced the warmer months, it’s important to understand what safety measures must be taken to preserve your water pipes and property. Historically, northwest Washington has had moderate winters, with temperatures dropping below freezing for short periods of time. In the last decade, that has not been the case. Stretches of nighttime temperatures can freeze pipes and delicate instant water heaters in homes that are not consistently heated in the winter months when bookings get slower.
Temperatures usually begin to sink into the 50ies in September overnight and then 10 degrees lower as the months progress on through February. It always seems like we get a snow storm in February. If your pipes are not very well insulated and your home heated consistently, plan to winterize and close to rentals past a certain date. If you need help with a plan to winterize, call Andy Saulsbury at Go with the Flow Plumbing. He can tell you if your pipes will make it through or need to be replaced with a more durable material. Pipes can be protected with insulation or heat wrapping as well.
Most homes in the area will have a low point at which to drain all the pipes. To ensure they are totally cleared of water, the best solution is to blow the water out with an air compressor. There are professionals available to do this work which is very similar to having your sprinkler system blown out in preparation for winter. If you cannot bring out a pro, consider using a small amount of RV antifreeze in the toilet. These are difficult to empty completely and with low enough temps, the bowl could freeze and break.
Make sure all food items that are not in jars or plastic boxes are thrown away or taken home. When temperatures start to fall, critters will look for creative places to hide. Also take home or store in hard sided bins toilet paper and paper towels as mice love these items for nesting material. Cloth items should also be stored in trunks or bins for the same reason.
Go with the Flow Plumbing
Andy Saulsbury
www.gowiththeflowplumbing.com
360-610-1326
