User:Ness Restoration/Winterizing Your Property

If you are shutting down a property for several months, you should always shut off the water supply and drain the plumbing system. If a pipe were to freeze and break, causing a leak while you’re away, the damage could be catastrophic.

Step One: Turn off the water heater before draining the system. Leaving your furnace on a low setting while you're gone helps, but may not prevent freezing.

Step Two: Shut off your water system at the main shut-off valve.

Step Three: To drain your water system,  go through the house and turn on all faucets, sinks, tubs, showers, etc.,

Step Four: Flush the toilets.

Step Five: Go back to the main valve and remove the plug so that it can drain completely.

Step Six: Once the main valve has drained completely, re-tighten the plug.

Step Seven: Turn off all open faucets.

Should you return home to broken pipes and a flood, you need to call a water and flood restoration specialist right away to prevent further damage or mold growth.