It may be your least favourite time of year if you’re closing up your relaxing cottage getaway. We have a few ideas to keep your second home protected during the off-season so that it’s easier when you return.
If you really don’t plan on going back for a while and you know you’re going to shut off the heat, turn off all electronics and appliances at the breaker.
Tricia Devoe, owner of Sears Hometown Parry Sound, has an important tip: if you own a plasma television screen, make sure to remove it from the cottage. Plasma doesn’t do well in the cold and it will last longer if it’s in a heated environment.
Whether you give your appliances a cleaning is up to you but Devoe thinks it’s a good idea. “I would clean them and leave doors slightly ajar. It will stop mould and mildew from building up,” she says.
It’s also worthwhile to take all food out of the cottage. Your home will then be less appealing to rodents that can squeeze through small spaces.
The good news is outdoor equipment such as tractors, barbeques and lawn mowers can be stored in a garage or secure shed during the cold winter months. The most important thing is to take care of the fuel that remains in the machines as it doesn’t take long for fuel to go bad. Make sure to have fuel stabilizer available to prevent this from happening.
Your plumbing should be winterized or else pipes may freeze and crack. If this is something you’re not too familiar with, hire someone who is. Let the staff at Sears Hometown Parry Sound help you out? They can connect you to a qualified, Sears-approved contractor that can get the job done right.
Sears Hometown Parry Sound is also a great place to pick up the cleaning supplies that will help you get your getaway home ready for winter. You can call them at 705-746-2191 or visit www.sears.ca.