Because the pipes aren't flexible enough for all the expansion that occurs, the frozen water will eventually cause the pipes to break, leaving you with big spring bills to replace the pipes or repair water damage in your home. When water freezes in pipes, they can burst and cause flooding throughout the house. It might also be worth hiring a professional to help you prepare for winter, as they are well-versed in ensuring that homes remain safe. By having an annual set-up in the fall, you can spot small problems now, instead of having bigger problems in the middle of winter.
Preparing for winter involves removing water from pipes and equipment, protecting water tanks, and disabling and storing batteries in the house. Let's take a look at what you need to know about how to prepare your motorhome for winter and what could happen if you don't. Preparing for winter isn't necessary if you're staying in a region that never experiences temperatures below freezing. This will keep water flowing, preventing interior leaks and most ice dams, which generously occurred in the northeast just two winters ago.
People who have the time and financial capacity to take long vacations should also prepare their homes for winter. Utility bills often rise in winter due to increased dark hours and the cost of heating your home. And since batteries tend to leak their charge when not in use, the electrical system also requires some attention for winter. If you're going to be out and about during the winter months, you should avoid plumbing problems.
In many cases, these homes are left empty for several months and, if not properly equipped for winter, can suffer serious damage during that time. If you live in the northeastern part of the country or in the upper Midwest, you know that your home may be subject to the brutal Northeast or severe winter weather. If you have a summer vacation home that you don't occupy in winter, be sure to take a fall weekend to visit the house and prepare it for winter. However, if you're traveling for a short time to an area that ventures below 32 degrees for more than 24 hours, you might consider preparing for winter.
