Heat on, or fully drained?

The procedure

1. Will anyone use the house in winter? If yes, keep heat on. If no, draining is the safer default.
2. Heat on: set above 55°F. Arlington County's emergency managers advise setting the thermostat above 55 degrees, especially for an extended absence.
3. Heat on: open the cabinets. Open the doors under sinks so warm air reaches pipes on outside walls.
4. Heat on: add a temperature alert. A sensor that texts you if the house drops toward freezing covers a failed furnace. See WW-1.
5. Heat on: still drain the outside lines. The outdoor shower and hose faucets get drained either way. See CD-4.
6. Fully drained: follow CD-1 and CD-2, then the main stays off until spring.

What does keeping the heat on not protect?

Pipes in the open space under an elevated house, pipes in unheated garages and runs inside cold outside walls can freeze even when the rooms are warm. Those need insulation or draining. See WW-4.

Is a drained house safe if the power goes out?

Yes, once the plumber's blowout and trap antifreeze are done, because little water is left to freeze. That is the main reason seasonal owners choose it.

The numbers behind it

Questions owners ask

Is 55°F enough in a shore house?

It is the common floor for long absences. Pipes on outside walls or under the house may still need protection.

Can I keep the heat on and the water off?

Many owners do: heat for the house, main closed to limit any leak. Tell the plumber so they set it up that way.

What if my insurer has rules about vacant houses?

Read the policy; some require heat or regular checks.