It’s not uncommon in Minnesota for people to pack up and head to warmer climates during the winter months. One common question we at Dan’s Plumbing and Septic are asked is how to properly shut off the water to the entire house to ensure pipes don’t freeze. This simple task is especially important if you plan to turn your furnace down to save electricity or should the power go out and interior temperatures drop. This can keep your pipes from freezing to the point of bursting and can save you thousands of dollars in repair bills. So, what is the proper way to ensure all the pipes are safe? Let’s break the process down step-by-step:

1. Find the shut-off point and turn off the water supply. The shut-off valve for your home’s water main is likely located in the basement, near your water meter or wherever the local water supply enters your home. It will be on the wall that faces the street. If this shut-off valve is tap- or knob-style, turn it clockwise (to the right), to turn it off. If your shut-off valve is lever-style, turn the lever clockwise or in whichever direction the “off” arrow is pointing.
2. Turn on the taps. Once you’ve turned off your home’s water supply, turn on the faucet in the lowest part of your basement first, then make your way upstairs and turn on the rest of the faucets, starting with taps on the top floor. Leave the faucets open.
3. Flush all the toilets in your home, starting with toilets on the top floor and working your way down to the basement. Remove the tank cover from each toilet and hold the flush lever down until all the water drains out of the tank.
4. Apply antifreeze. Once all the water has drained out of your faucets and toilets, pour some plumbing antifreeze (available at your local hardware store) into all sink drains, bathtub drains, and each of your toilet bowls. This should prevent any remaining drops of water from freezing.
5. Drain your appliances. Consider draining any appliances in your home that use water, including your washing machine, dishwasher, and water heater. Turn off the water supply to each of these appliances and follow the manufacturers’ recommendations for draining them.

Plumbing And Winterizing Specialists In The Twin Cities

When you have questions about winterizing your plumbing system, to have pipes inspected or repaired, or for any on-site service need, contact the plumbing professionals at Dan’s Plumbing and Septic. Servicing residential and commercial sites over much of Minnesota, we’re standing by to help. Contact us at (763) 434-6814 to schedule an appointment today!