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How to Safely Winterize Your Cottage Potable Water System
For owners of cottages or vacation homes, some routine water system winterization maintenance this fall could mean the difference between immediate enjoyment next spring and a big repair bill for burst or damaged pipes.
Here's an easy, step-by-step way to prepare your potable water system for freezing winter temperatures safely, effectively and with the lowest environmental impact:
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Turn off the power to the water pump and the hot water tank.
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Thoroughly flush and drain pipes and fixtures. Before installing DOWFROST™ RVR, it is important to flush water from the systems. Water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, so leave as little in your system as possible. How this is accomplished can differ dramatically between different types of homes, so consult a qualified plumber if you're not familiar with how your water system works.
Tip: Use an air compressor to blow excess water through the open taps.
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Drain the hot water tank, jet pump and the pressure or gravity tank. If water is left inside the pressure tank, it may freeze and destroy the diaphragm, effectively ruining the tank. Make sure any lines supplying the tanks are also drained, particularly if a pump is located somewhere outside of the cottage. Again, the specific steps for winterizing each piece of equipment will differ between different types of homes and equipment, so consult a qualified plumber if you're not familiar with your system.
Tip: Make sure your system is capable of accommodating the normal expansion of the solution which occurs during periods of winter storage. Consulting a qualified plumber for assistance is never a bad idea.
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Drain the sewage system and toilet. Fill the jet pump, toilet, sinks, and other applicable fixtures and pipes with specially formulated propylene glycol DOWFROST™ RVR fluids. Choosing the right winterization fluid product is important to ensure the safety of people or pets that might come in contact with or swallow spilled or stored liquid. Choose a propylene glycol mixture. These products can provide freeze and burst protection as low as -50°F, and are generally safe for people and the environment. DOWFROST™ RVR Fluids comply with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) regulations for use in applications where contact with food or beverage products could occur.
Tip: Don't dilute DOWFROST™ RVR fluids. DOWFROST™ RVR is purchased as a premixed solution. Adding water as you install it will raise the freezing point and reduce the protection for your water system.
Tip: DOWFROST™ RVR Freeze Protection Fluid, a product of The Dow Chemical Company, is safe for incidental contact with people or animals and can also prevent harmful pollution of ground and surface water in the event of a spill. This fluid is specially formulated for use in seasonal equipment, is readily biodegradable, and is practically non-toxic to aquatic life, which means it can help protect the environment
Don't use automotive antifreeze. Never use automotive antifreeze for water system winterization. Most auto antifreeze is made from ethylene glycol, which is more toxic than propylene glycol and is harmful to humans and pets. And don't use windshield washer fluid, either, as it can freeze solid at subzero temperatures.
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Flush your system thoroughly in the spring. When winter is over, drain, and then double flush all of the DOWFROST™ RVR from your water system using plenty of clean potable water and taking special precautions to drain and flush all low points. Continue flushing the system with potable water until clear water is being drained, with no red or pink color, or any tint of color in it. Capture the winterization fluid and any contaminated water used to flush the system and dispose of the waste liquid properly. Once the system is thoroughly flushed, close the drains and recharge with drinking water. You are ready for another summer of fun!
Tip: Don't recycle DOWFROST™ RVR. Doing so risks system contamination that could affect performance or introduce bacteria or other agents into your water system.
These tips provide a general guide to successful winterization. But to ensure the most effective protection, be sure to follow any specific instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer.
Source: The Dow Chemical Company