How to Drain Pipes for the Winter
If you have a vacation house that you only use during the summer months or a rental property that is sitting empty, it is highly recommended that you drain the pipes prior to the winter. Leaving water in the pipes could cause them to burst when the temperature drops. This is something you can easily do yourself.
How to Drain Pipes for the Winter
- Shut off the water to the house at the main valve. If you cannot locate the valve you should contact a plumber or the water department in your area.
- Open all of the faucets in every sink of the house to allow them to drain after the water has been shut off. It is recommended that you let the hot water faucet stay open longer because it will be pulling water from the hot water heater.
- Flush all of the toilets in the house. This is done to remove the water from the tanks. It will be necessary to continue to flush them until all of the water is completely gone from the tank.
- Hold the hose attached to an air compressor to the pipes for several minutes. The force of the air will forcefully push any remaining water from the pipes.