Preparing an Apple Valley Lake home for winter depends on whether it will remain occupied, be visited occasionally or sit vacant for part of the season. A good plan protects the plumbing, heating system, exterior and lake-related features while making the home easier to monitor during cold Ohio weather.

Protect the Plumbing

Disconnect and drain garden hoses. Close interior shutoff valves that supply outdoor faucets when the home is equipped with them, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for winterizing exterior fixtures.

Insulate exposed water pipes in garages, crawl spaces, basements and other unheated areas. During severe cold, the American Red Cross recommends keeping garage doors closed when water lines are present, opening cabinets around plumbing so warm air can circulate and allowing a small trickle of water through vulnerable pipes.

If the home will be vacant or the heat will be reduced for an extended period, ask a licensed plumber whether the water supply and plumbing system should be professionally winterized. Do not assume that simply turning off the main valve protects every pipe, appliance or fixture.

Service the Heating System

Schedule furnace or heat-pump service before consistently cold weather arrives. Replace or clean filters and verify that the thermostat and backup heat settings work correctly.

Keep enough heat in the home to protect the plumbing. A monitored smart thermostat can alert you to an unexpected temperature drop, but it should not replace regular property checks.

Test smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms and replace batteries as needed. Never use a gas stove or oven to heat the home.

Check the Exterior

Clean gutters and downspouts so melting snow and winter rain can move away from the house. Look for loose shingles, damaged flashing, deteriorated caulk and gaps around windows or doors.

Inspect decks, railings, exterior stairs and walkways. Lake homes often have sloped lots and more outdoor steps than typical homes, so stable handrails and safe walking surfaces are especially important during snow and ice.

Turn off, drain and store seasonal outdoor equipment according to the manufacturer’s directions. This may include irrigation components, pressure washers and exterior water features.

Prepare Lakefront Features

Lakefront owners should inspect docks, lifts, seawalls, shoreline drainage and waterfront steps before freezing weather. Winterization needs vary by equipment, water depth and installation.

Follow current Apple Valley Property Owners Association rules and use qualified contractors when removing, securing or servicing waterfront equipment. Boat, lift and dock manufacturers may also have specific winter-storage requirements.

Plan for Power Outages and Absences

Keep flashlights, batteries, basic supplies and emergency contact information available. Ready.gov recommends preparing for winter power outages and having a household emergency plan.

If the property will be vacant:

• Arrange for regular interior and exterior checks.
• Give a trusted person access to the home.
• Monitor temperature, power and water when practical.
• Keep driveways and access areas available for service providers.
• Confirm that insurance requirements for a vacant or seasonal home are being followed.

Winter preparation is not identical for every Apple Valley property. Construction, plumbing location, heating type, lakefront equipment and occupancy all affect what needs to be done.

Firsthand Apple Valley Ownership Experience

Joe and Sherrie Toth purchased their first Apple Valley property in 2000, lived at the lake full time for 18 years and continue to own property in the community. Their firsthand experience helps buyers and owners understand the practical responsibilities of full-time and second-home ownership at Apple Valley Lake.

Learn more about Joe, Sherrie and Toth & Team, explore current Apple Valley Lake homes for sale or contact Joe and Sherrie for local guidance.

Sources: American Red Cross frozen-pipe guidance and Ready.gov winter-weather guidance.