Overview
Before leaving the cabin for cold weather, the water must be drained and the traps protected so the pipes don't freeze and burst.
Critical
Skipping these steps can lead to frozen, burst pipes and serious water damage. Follow them carefully.
Drain the Water
Turn the water off downstairs
Turn the water off downstairs and drain the pipes. See the instructional sheet at the cabin and the Water System guide.
Drain the basement faucet
Drain the water out of the faucet next to the basement shower and toilet. Then remember to close it again.
Drain the washing machine
Turn off the water to the washing machine (hot and cold) and drain the hoses.
RV Antifreeze
Toilet
Pour RV pink antifreeze into the toilet bowl and tank.
Pink RV antifreeze only
Use the non-toxic pink RV antifreeze. It protects the traps and the toilet from freezing.
Heat
Leave the heat set at 45-50°F so the cabin stays above freezing without wasting energy.
See the Closing the Cabin checklist for the rest of the shut-down steps (locking windows, base heater clearance, doors, lights, etc.).