How to Prepare Your Plumbing Before Heading to the Cottage Tips for a Worry-Free Getaway
Heading up to your cottage? Then your plumbing deserves a little extra attention—nothing ruins a getaway like a burst pipe or a flooded basement. The best way to prepare your plumbing is by giving all the key systems a solid once-over—think sump pumps, well pumps, and those interior pipes—before you even pack your bags. Trust me, a little effort now saves a whole lot of hassle later.
Don’t forget to drain your pipes and shut off water supplies, especially if your home or cottage will be unoccupied during cold weather. If you have a sump pump with a battery backup, test it before storms arrive. Harris Plumbing has been helping cottage and home owners in Muskoka, Barrie, and Orillia with these essential winter checks for decades.
Inspecting Your Home Plumbing System
Before you even think about hitting the road, make sure your home plumbing is in decent shape. Hunt for leaks, check insulation, and give those shutoff valves a quick test. It’s way easier to tackle issues now than deal with a disaster later.
Check for Leaks and Weak Points
Start with a good look around pipes, faucets, and joints. Even a tiny drip can escalate into a full-blown mess if left alone. Corners and connections are the usual suspects—don’t skip those.
Peek under sinks and near the water heater for any signs of moisture or water stains. Find a wet spot? Follow it back to the source and handle it before you go. A leaking pipe in cottage country can spell big trouble if temperatures drop.
Spot cracks or rust on exposed pipes? That’s your cue to call in a pro—Harris Plumbing or someone you trust. Better to fix it now than face a headache later.
Assess Pipe Insulation
Pipes running through unheated zones like crawl spaces or basements are basically begging to freeze. Check that they’re wrapped up with insulation—foam sleeves or tape do the trick. Don’t overlook shutoff valves and any exposed bits.
If you see insulation that’s falling apart or missing, swap it out before the cold hits. Good insulation also keeps hot water hot, so you’re not wasting money heating water that cools off before it gets to you.
Test Shutoff Valves
Find every main and local shutoff valve—these control water flow to different areas. Twist each one open and closed to be sure they’re not stuck. Valves that haven’t been touched in a while can seize up and let you down when you need them most.
If one leaks or refuses to shut off completely, it’s time for a repair or replacement. Knowing your valves work gives you a bit of peace of mind—especially if something goes sideways.
Testing shutoff valves takes just a few minutes and can save you from major water damage. If you’re not sure, Harris Plumbing can help out.
Draining Water from Pipes and Appliances
When you’re closing up the cottage for the season, you’ve gotta get water out of the system. That means shutting off the main, draining pipes, and emptying any tanks or appliances that hold water.
Turn Off the Main Water Supply
Find your main water shut-off—it’s usually by the water meter, a basement wall, or wherever the water line enters. Turn it clockwise until it stops. That’s it—water’s off.
After that, open up every tap and faucet, inside and out, so water can drain. Flush toilets to empty the tanks, too. This drops the pressure and cuts the risk of pipes bursting if it gets cold.
If you run a well or lake pump, kill the power so it doesn’t run dry and burn out.
Drain Interior Pipes
With the water off, start draining the pipes. Begin at the highest faucet and work your way down. Open each tap until nothing but air comes out.
For floor drains or stubborn low spots, grab a sump pump or wet/dry vac. Don’t forget those hard-to-reach taps in crawl spaces or basements.
Draining pipes well is your best defense against frozen pipes. If you want to go the extra mile, use plumbing-safe antifreeze for extra protection—Harris Plumbing swears by it.
Empty Water Heaters and Tanks
Water heaters and pressure tanks can hold a surprising amount of water. Shut off the power or gas to the heater first.
Hook up a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom, run the hose outside, and open the valve. Opening a hot water tap inside helps air get in so the water flows out faster.
If you’ve got a pressure tank for your well, follow the manual to drain it safely. This stops freezing and damage.
Emptying heaters and tanks keeps them from cracking or leaking in the cold. Not sure how? Harris Plumbing can handle it before you leave.
Winterizing Toilets and Fixtures
Before you lock up for winter, take care of your toilets, sinks, and tubs. If you skip this, you might be facing repairs come spring.
Flush and Drain Toilets
Shut off the water to each toilet, then flush a couple of times to empty the tank and bowl.
Use a hand pump or wet vac to get the last bit of water out. Pour some non-toxic, plumbing-safe antifreeze into the bowl to protect the trap. Steer clear of automotive antifreeze—it’s not meant for this.
Leave the lid up so any stray moisture can evaporate. That way, you won’t get ice forming in weird places.
Prepare Sinks and Bathtubs
Turn off water valves under sinks and by tubs, then crack open the faucets to drain them. Take out drain stoppers and clear any water from traps with a wet/dry vac or pump. A splash of non-toxic antifreeze in each drain keeps things safe.
Leave cabinet doors under sinks open so warmer air can reach the pipes. It’s a small thing, but it helps. These steps keep your fixtures in good shape for next season.
Need a hand with winterizing or other plumbing work in Simcoe or Muskoka? Harris Plumbing’s licensed team has your back.
Protecting Exterior Plumbing Elements
Don’t neglect the outside. A few simple moves can prevent headaches and expensive fixes later.
Disconnect and Store Garden Hoses
Always unscrew garden hoses from outdoor taps before you leave. If you skip this, water can get trapped, freeze, and burst the pipe.
Drain hoses well and stash them somewhere dry—garage, shed, whatever works. This keeps them in good shape for next year.
Give hoses a quick check for cracks or leaks. If they’re shot, toss or repair them so you’re not wasting water next season.
Shut Off Outdoor Faucets
Find the shutoff valve for outdoor faucets and turn it off all the way. Then open the faucet outside to let any water drain out. If water stays trapped, it can freeze and crack the pipe.
If you’ve got frost-free taps, still go through these steps. If you’re unsure, have a pro from Harris Plumbing check your exterior plumbing before winter.
Using Antifreeze for Added Protection
Pouring antifreeze into your cottage plumbing is a smart move, especially for drains, toilet bowls, and tanks that might hold water when the cold hits.
Apply Non-Toxic Antifreeze to Drains
Before you lock up, pour a bit of non-toxic antifreeze into every drain—sinks, showers, tubs, the lot. Aim for enough to fill the trap and block freezing water.
Stick to the plumbing-safe stuff—automotive antifreeze is a no-go. This creates a barrier and keeps water from freezing and expanding.
Cover every drain, especially if your plumbing isn’t fully drained or winterized. Harris Plumbing always recommends this for Ontario winters.
Treat Toilet Bowls and Tanks
For toilets, pour non-toxic antifreeze into both the bowl and tank. Flush to empty most of the water first.
Then add about half a cup to the bowl, another half cup to the tank. This stops any leftover water from freezing and cracking the porcelain.
Skip this and you risk busted toilets come spring. Antifreeze made for plumbing won’t mess with your septic, either.
Honestly, it’s a small step for a lot of peace of mind. Harris Plumbing urges cottage owners to do this before shutting down for the season.
Preventing Frozen or Burst Pipes
Keeping pipes warm and blocking out cold air is key if you want to dodge frozen or burst pipes.
Add Extra Pipe Insulation
Wrap pipes in unheated spots—basements, crawl spaces, exterior walls—with foam or fiberglass insulation. Use sleeves or tape, and don’t leave any sections bare.
Want to be extra cautious? Add heat tape—it’s electric, wraps around pipes, and keeps them just warm enough to prevent ice.
Check pipes for damage or leaks before winter. If you’re not sure what you’re looking at, Harris Plumbing can give your setup a once-over.
Seal Drafts Around Pipes
Cold air sneaks in through cracks and holes around pipes, speeding up freezing. Use caulk or spray foam to seal gaps, especially near vents or where pipes enter.
Look around outlets and windows too. Pay attention to plumbing that runs through attics or garages—those spots get cold fast.
Sealing up drafts keeps the temp steady around your pipes, lowering the odds of freeze-ups while you’re away.
Safety Checks Before Leaving
Before you finally walk out the door, double-check that your plumbing is safe and sound. A few last steps can save you from nasty surprises.
Verify Sump Pump Functionality
Your sump pump is your first line of defense against flooding. Pour water into the pit and see if it kicks in and pumps water out.
Check the power source, too. If it’s electric, make sure it’s plugged in. Consider a battery backup in case the power goes out.
Clear out any gunk in the pit and listen for weird noises—those could mean trouble.
Ensure All Appliances are Unplugged
Unplug anything hooked up to your plumbing—water heaters, washers, dishwashers, electric pumps. It cuts the risk of electrical fires and saves a bit on your bill.
If you’ve got stuff that can’t be unplugged, like a fridge, make sure it’s set up safely and monitored if possible.
A quick safety check now means fewer worries later. Need advice or want a pro to look things over? Contact Harris Plumbing in Muskoka or Simcoe County—they’ll help make sure everything’s ready and secure.
Preparing for Your Return to the Cottage
Before heading back to your cottage, you’ll want to make sure your plumbing’s ready to go. No one likes nasty surprises like leaks or frozen pipes. A little prep now means you can actually relax when you get there.
Plan for a Safe Reopening
Take a look at all your water valves and faucets. Open them up all the way, but check for leaks while you’re at it—sometimes there’s a sneaky drip. When you turn on the main water supply, go slow. That way, you won’t blast your pipes with pressure and risk cracking something. Keep an eye out for any pipes that look suspicious, especially in spots that don’t get much heat, like crawl spaces.
Run water through every tap, shower, and toilet for about 10 minutes. It’s not the most exciting chore, but it gets rid of stale water and any trapped air. If you rely on a well or lake pump, flip it on and listen. Any weird sounds or weak pressure? Don’t wait—call someone who knows what they’re doing.
Schedule a Post-Trip Plumbing Review
After you’ve settled in for a few days, consider booking a plumbing checkup. Sometimes issues don’t show themselves right away. A licensed journeyman plumber from Harris Plumbing can look over your septic system, sump pump, and water heater to make sure everything’s humming along.
Honestly, regular inspections save you money in the long run and keep your plumbing working longer. Set a yearly reminder, especially before winter hits. It’s just one of those things that pays off, even if it’s not the most glamorous part of cottage life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting your cottage plumbing ready is all about preventing damage and keeping things running. You’ll want to drain water, stop pipes from freezing, and make sure your water stays safe while you’re away.
What are the essential steps to winterize plumbing in my cottage?
Drain every bit of water from pipes, tanks, and heaters. Use an air compressor if you have one, to really clear out moisture. Pour some non-toxic antifreeze into traps and toilets. Shut off the main water supply and cut power to pumps and heaters.
How can I prevent pipes from freezing in my vacant cottage?
Wrap exposed pipes with foam sleeves or heat tape. Leave cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate. If you can, keep the heat on low or put in a smart thermostat so you can check the temperature from afar. Harris Plumbing can help with pipe insulation if you want extra peace of mind.
What should I put in my cottage drains before leaving for an extended period?
Pour a little non-toxic antifreeze into drains and toilets to keep the traps wet. This blocks sewer gas and helps stop freezing. Don’t use automotive or industrial antifreeze—it’s just not meant for plumbing.
What is the best way to maintain my cottage well when not in use?
Before you leave, check your well pump and water system. Think about adding a battery backup to your sump pump in case the power goes out. Getting a licensed plumber to look things over now and then can save you headaches. Harris Plumbing does well pump work for seasonal homes in Muskoka and Simcoe County.
Is there a checklist for closing my cottage for the winter?
Definitely. Shut off the main water and drain every pipe. Clean out drains and add antifreeze where you need to. Turn off water-related electrical stuff. Clear out food and scrub the kitchen and bathroom—no one wants pests. Last thing: make sure all the doors and windows are locked up tight.
Can you provide tips for managing water supply systems in seasonal homes?
Go ahead and test your water quality both before and after each season—sometimes things change and you won't notice until it's too late. Make sure to service your well or lake pump regularly; nobody wants a surprise breakdown in the middle of a weekend. Choose pressure tanks and filters that actually suit rural cottages, not just whatever's on sale. Keep your septic system in good shape, and steer clear of harsh chemicals—they'll mess with the bacteria you need. Oh, and it's smart to schedule a yearly inspection with local pros like Harris Plumbing.