Guides & checklists
Resources
Practical guides and checklists to help you maintain your mountain home's plumbing — and know what to do when something goes wrong.
Winterization Checklist
Protect your mountain home's plumbing before winter arrives.
Emergency Shutoff Guide
Know how to stop water flow quickly when it matters most.
Leaving Your Second Home for the Season
A plumbing checklist for homeowners heading out for an extended period.
Water Heater Maintenance Calendar
Keep your water heater running efficiently with regular maintenance.
Winterization Checklist
Protect your mountain home's plumbing before winter arrives.
- 1 Shut off the main water supply and drain all lines
- 2 Open all faucets and flush toilets to clear remaining water
- 3 Add RV-grade antifreeze to all drain traps (sinks, tubs, toilets)
- 4 Shut down and drain the water heater
- 5 Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and irrigation lines
- 6 Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces and exterior walls
- 7 Set the thermostat to at least 55°F (or as recommended by your insurer)
- 8 Consider installing a smart water monitor for remote freeze alerts
- 9 Document the process and share with your property manager
- 10 Schedule a spring de-winterization visit
Emergency Shutoff Guide
Know how to stop water flow quickly when it matters most.
- 1 Locate your main water shutoff valve (typically where the main line enters the home)
- 2 Turn the valve clockwise to close (or perpendicular to the pipe for ball valves)
- 3 If you have a smart shutoff system, use the app to close the valve remotely
- 4 Open a faucet at the lowest point in the home to relieve pressure
- 5 If the leak involves hot water, also shut off the water heater
- 6 For gas leaks: leave the area immediately and call 911 or your gas utility
- 7 Call Brimer Plumbing at 530-587-0733 for emergency response
- 8 Move valuables and electronics away from the affected area
- 9 Take photos of any damage for insurance documentation
Leaving Your Second Home for the Season
A plumbing checklist for homeowners heading out for an extended period.
- 1 Shut off the main water supply (or set your smart shutoff to 'away' mode)
- 2 Run faucets briefly to depressurize the system
- 3 Set the water heater to vacation mode or shut it down completely
- 4 Check under all sinks and around appliances for signs of leaks
- 5 Ensure all exterior hose bibs are shut off and drained
- 6 Verify your smart water monitor is connected and alerts are enabled
- 7 Confirm your property manager has emergency contact information
- 8 Set the thermostat to maintain at least 55°F
- 9 Check that sump pumps (if applicable) are operational
- 10 Schedule a professional winterization if leaving before or during winter
Water Heater Maintenance Calendar
Keep your water heater running efficiently with regular maintenance.
- 1 Monthly: Check the area around the water heater for signs of leaks or corrosion
- 2 Monthly: Test the temperature and pressure relief valve (lift and release the lever)
- 3 Every 6 months: Listen for unusual sounds (popping, rumbling) that indicate sediment buildup
- 4 Annually: Flush the tank to remove sediment (or schedule professional service)
- 5 Annually: Inspect the anode rod — replace if more than 50% depleted
- 6 Annually: Check gas connections and venting (gas units) for corrosion or blockage
- 7 Annually: Verify the thermostat is set to 120°F for safety and efficiency
- 8 Every 3–5 years: Have a professional inspect the full system
- 9 Tankless units: Descale annually (more often with hard water)
- 10 Before winter: Ensure the unit is operational if the home will be occupied
Need professional help?
These guides are a starting point. For hands-on service, winterization, or emergency response, we're here to help.