How We ‘Winterize’ Our U.S. Home Before Long Trips
Imagine this: The night before a flight, you’re trying to remember if you shut off the water, emptied the fridge, or told the neighbors you’d be away for three weeks. Been there. After a few too many frantic departures, my wife and I finally created a “winterize and leave” checklist for our house in North Carolina. Here’s how we prep our place before a winter trip, whether that’s for a month or just a couple of weeks.
Why ‘Winterizing’ Matters Even in the South
Sure, winters here aren’t Minnesota-level, but a burst pipe or a break-in can wreck your peace of mind (and wallet). Even in milder states, cold snaps, power outages, or simply a forgotten package can cause headaches. Over the years, we’ve learned that a systematic approach beats last-minute panic every time.
Pro tip: If you’re leaving for more than a week, treat your home like you’re prepping for a storm — just a very slow-moving, invisible one.
Our “Before We Leave” Case Study
Last January, we set off for California, planning to be gone about 18 days. I thought we’d nailed our prep. But halfway through the trip, our neighbor texted: “Your mailbox is overflowing. Should I grab your stuff?” Oops. After that, we revamped our process to avoid missed bills, spoiled food, and potential plumbing disasters.
Step-by-Step: Our 15-Minute Home Winterization Routine
Here’s the process we use, adapted over several trips. You can do most of this in under 15 minutes with practice:
1. Water: Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Turn off the main water valve. Ours is in the crawlspace; yours might be in the basement or outside. If you live in a condo, check with building management.
- Drain the system: Open the lowest faucet (usually an outdoor spigot) and let remaining water run out.
- Flush toilets. This helps prevent standing water in pipes, which can freeze and crack the porcelain if temps drop.
- Optional: Add a splash of RV antifreeze to toilet bowls if you expect hard freezes.
2. HVAC: Don’t Waste Energy (or Money)
- Set thermostat to “away” or 55°F (13°C). Enough to keep pipes safe, but not heat the whole house for nothing.
- Smart thermostats: If you use something like Nest or Ecobee, set an “away” schedule and enable alerts for temperature drops.
- Change HVAC filter. This can prevent system stress, especially if you’re gone for several weeks.
3. Kitchen: Fridge, Freezer, and Food
- Eat or toss perishables. We once returned to a science experiment involving kale. Not recommended.
- Set fridge to lowest (but safe) setting. Some newer models have a “vacation” mode.
- Empty trash and compost. Raccoons, ants, and fruit flies are not fun surprises.
- Leave fridge door ajar (only if unplugging): Prevents mold if you’ll be gone over a month and have cleared it out.
4. Mail and Deliveries
- USPS Hold Mail: Submit online (here) up to 30 days.
- Pause subscriptions/shipments (Amazon, Chewy, etc.) or redirect to a pickup locker.
- Ask a neighbor to check for flyers or packages that might get left on your porch.
5. Security: Cameras, Alarms, and Neighbors
- Smart cameras: Set to “away” mode. Make sure batteries are charged and WiFi is working.
- Alarm system: Double-check all doors and windows, and arm the system.
- Lights: Use smart plugs or timers for a couple of lamps to mimic someone being home.
- Let a trusted neighbor know your dates. Bonus: Offer to swap the favor for their next trip.
6. Insurance and Emergency Contacts
- Review your homeowners or renters policy. Some require you to shut off the water or have someone check in if you’re gone over 14 days (check the fine print).
- List emergency contacts: Leave your cell number and local emergency contacts with a neighbor or property manager.
Quick Reference Checklist
| Task | Why | Done? |
|---|---|---|
| Turn off main water | Prevent leaks & frozen pipes | □ |
| Drain faucets/toilets | Minimize freeze risk | □ |
| Set thermostat (55°F/13°C) | Save energy, protect pipes | □ |
| Clear fridge & trash | No bad smells (or science projects) | □ |
| Hold mail/packages | Prevent theft, lost bills | □ |
| Set up smart cameras/timers | Deter break-ins | □ |
| Notify neighbor | Extra eyes, emergencies | □ |
| Check insurance policy | Stay covered | □ |
Tools & Links We Actually Use
- USPS Hold Mail – Free for up to 30 days.
- Ecobee Smart Thermostat – Lets us check home temps remotely.
- Google Nest – Another good smart thermostat option.
- Ring Cameras – For front door and driveway monitoring.
- Kasa Smart Plugs – Easy to set up lamp timers.
- State Farm Insurance – Has clear vacation coverage policies (but check your own provider).
Real talk: The first time we left for two weeks, we forgot to empty the compost bin. The stench was legendary. Never again.
Takeaways (and Laughs)
Winterizing your home isn’t just about pipes and thermostats — it’s about returning to a house that feels as good as when you left. And if you get it wrong, you’ll have a funny (or smelly) story for next time. Use the checklist, ask neighbors for help, and double-check the fridge. Your future self will thank you.
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