This is the time of year when some members start to prepare to head south to avoid the harsh Minnesota winter. To help keep your electric use to a minimum while you’re away, we recommend you:
- Turn off the water supply, make sure to drain the pipes, and give each toilet a flush. Don’t forget to close and drain outdoor faucets. Exceptions include homes that use a hot water heating system, or homes with a fire sprinkler supply.
- Make sure your windows and doors close tightly. If they don’t, cold air will find a way inside, there is still time to install new weatherstripping if needed.
- Turn your thermostat down to 55 degrees. This should prevent pipes and drains from freezing, given there are no significant weatherization leaks or a lack of insulation. Consider installing a wi-fi thermostat so you can monitor your home’s heating system from afar.
- Unplug and disconnect electrical devices that are not in use—instant-on devices such as TVs, coffee makers, gaming consoles, computers, printers, etc. These items are still drawing a small amount of electricity even when they are not “in use.”
- If feasible, clean out, defrost, and disconnect refrigerators and freezers. Is that extra fridge in the garage being used? If not, unplug it for the winter.
- We also suggest snowbirds entrust a neighbor, relative, or close friend to check in on their home/property from time to time. Harsh winters come with storms that may knock out power for longer periods of time. A breaker may also trip; heating systems are not able to turn on after a tripped breaker.
Did You Know?
If you are a snowbird, you can temporarily change your mailing address with us while you are away from your property. This ensures that you will receive your TWEC billing statements, newsletters, and other important information. Please contact the office at (218) 631-3120.
