Before You Arrive (Winter)
Call ahead in winter
It's a good idea to call Rick (our cabin check and plow guy) at 218-200-9420 to let him know we'll be up.
Heating
Check the gas fireplace thermostat
Take note of the current temperature reading. 55°F and higher is OK. If it's lower than 50°F, check whether the base electric heat is working or the fireplace needs new batteries.
Know the energy-saving plan
We're on an energy-saving plan with Crow Wing Power. Throughout the winter they turn the electric heat off during peak times (for example, Jan 6 from 3:30 to 8:30). You can go online to see when these peak times are scheduled.
Turn the gas fireplace on
Turn the gas fireplace on to heat the cabin — set it up to about 70°F. If it doesn't turn on at the wall thermostat, turn it on manually with the ON/OFF button. See the gas fireplace guide for details.
Turn up the electric baseboard heat
Turn electric heat up in the master bedroom and other rooms being used, including bathrooms. 60°F is a good starting point. Check that the baseboards are working — they should feel a little warm.
Fire safety
Make sure nothing is close to the base heaters that could start a fire. Keep furniture and objects clear of the baseboards and the gas fireplace.
Water
Turn the water on
Follow the water system guide to turn the water on at the filters and main line.
Check the faucets
Make sure all faucets and showers are turned off — they could have been left open when the last person drained the pipes.
Check for leaks
Check for water leaks, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Turn the water heater on
Turn the water heat on at the electric panel breakers.
Water softener
Plug the water softener in and check whether you need to add more salt.
Dishwasher first run
If you use the dishwasher, run it during the day the first time, just in case it leaks, so you'll be around to catch it.