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forced
hot water & steam systems
Drain
all water in the system unless the liquid contains
antifreeze. It's wise to have this type of system drained
by a plumber unless you are well-informed on the
procedures necessary.
Winterize
your summer home as you do your winter home. To conserve
energy when a home isn't occupied, install a low-heat
thermostat so your home could be maintained at abut
40ºF w/out a freeze-up, rather than at 55ºF,
which is the lowest temperature at which most thermostats
can be set.
washing
machine & dishwasher
Water left in hoses & internal components can cause
damage when it freezes.
Shut
off water supply to clothes washer. Remove & drain
inlet hoses. Clear water valve by setting timer for fill
cycle. Press warm water button & run machine a few
seconds. Drain water from drain hose. Disconnect
electrical supply.
For
a dishwasher, remove inlet & outlet connection to the
valve. Operate valve to remove any water. Remove drain
hose from the pump & drain. Disconnect electrical
supply. It's a good idea to clean the equipment & to
protect the finish w/ a coat of appliance
polish.
sewage
system
- force
as much water as possible out of traps w/ a
plunger
- add
antifreeze to each trap so you have at least a 50%
solution of ethylene - glycol & water. Sometimes
fuel oil can be substituted for antifreeze
- check
for traps in these locations: kitchen sinks, bathroom
sinks, bathtub &/or shower drains, toilets,
washtubs, floor drains & maybe a sump pump
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