new homeowner

Descant · 10-09-2015, 04:37 PM

Our family built in 1960. We've done different prep over the years. We used to remove the septic pump, but no longer bother. Some water seeps into the containment, but not a problem. It pumps out when we turn power back on in the spring.

We do turn off all power when we close. Linens go into plastic storage boxes, but some clothes and blankets have been OK just hanging in the closet. We remove bedding and cover mattresses with newspapers, on the understanding that mice don't like the noise.

Several years ago, we forgot the D-Con and had some critters. They didn't bother the beds or stuff in the closets, but they tore up 5 rolls of toilet paper and spread it all over, making nests. Lots of acorns brought in and consumed Now, D-Con is the last thing in and the first thing out, after the pets and kids are in the boat. Don't know if it helps, but we put mothballs around the perimeter to discourage critters when they are home shopping. All dissolved by spring, so no lingering odor.

Best thing ever? We started hiring Island Support Services to turn water on/off after doing it ourselves for decades. They also open the shutters, move the lawn and deck furniture back out, dust, shampoo carpets and wash windows. We figure we gain three weekends of enjoyment that we used to spend doing plumbing and cleaning.

10-09-2015, 04:37 PM	#16
Descant Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Merrimack and Welch Island Posts: 4,416 Thanks: 1,366 Thanked 1,638 Times in 1,070 Posts	Winter prep Our family built in 1960. We've done different prep over the years. We used to remove the septic pump, but no longer bother. Some water seeps into the containment, but not a problem. It pumps out when we turn power back on in the spring. We do turn off all power when we close. Linens go into plastic storage boxes, but some clothes and blankets have been OK just hanging in the closet. We remove bedding and cover mattresses with newspapers, on the understanding that mice don't like the noise. Several years ago, we forgot the D-Con and had some critters. They didn't bother the beds or stuff in the closets, but they tore up 5 rolls of toilet paper and spread it all over, making nests. Lots of acorns brought in and consumed Now, D-Con is the last thing in and the first thing out, after the pets and kids are in the boat. Don't know if it helps, but we put mothballs around the perimeter to discourage critters when they are home shopping. All dissolved by spring, so no lingering odor. Best thing ever? We started hiring Island Support Services to turn water on/off after doing it ourselves for decades. They also open the shutters, move the lawn and deck furniture back out, dust, shampoo carpets and wash windows. We figure we gain three weekends of enjoyment that we used to spend doing plumbing and cleaning.