Tips on winterizing homes

Via E-Mail—— My winterizing apparatus is functioning well and I haven't had any problems with it. My question to Dave Yates is: When people ask me about leaving the heat on at a low setting vs. turning it off completely ( electric heat), I try to lean toward leaving it on low for a couple of reasons. One being-that the heat could keep the dampness down and reduce a mold condition. The other reason, in my opinion, is to reduce the drastic temperature shock to the structure and its contents. I try to sell the winterizing as an insurance policy against major damage should power be lost for a few days like we have seen on the news lately.

Am I doing them justice or am I incorrect in my thinking?

Frank Piranio
Selective Plumbing

Dave Yates replies: I've no doubt your concerns regarding moisture and mold might be well founded. Sounds like the old adage about an ounce of prevention being worth a pound of cure! A low setting on the stat will, as you've noted, keep those issues at bay, and your most excellent winterizing methods will ensure zero potential for freeze-damage to the home's plumbing. A win-win in my opinion. For those who don't mind the associated risks, minimal though they may well be, turning off the heat is an option too.