Opering the cabin...water??

[traveler]

OK, this is my first spring with the new cabin (on red lake)

We're headed up there for Easter weekend...my wife/daughter would love me to turn on the water, but?? Lows for the 10 day are 32/40 degrees up there. Any advice?? I'm leaning toward erring on the safe side, but if it's reasonable I'd sure like to get in running now...thanks.

[backlash 1]

Me not knowing your setup you could have a problem with some exposed outside piping. Inside probably would be ok, but I am a worrier, I know what could happen. I would just bring along a small air compressor, and blow the lines out at the end of the weekend. It only takes a few minutes, and then you'll be able to sleep at night back home, and everyone will be good.

(this is Minnesota)

[BoxMN]

FWIW, all the trailer parks (seasonal) in the Crosslake area seemed to turn on their water last weekend. It is a bit south of you though, but I don't really think there is that much cold weather (truly freezing) left, but it ain't my lines so take with grain of salt! Have fun up there!

[Nick Kuhn]

You should be alright. While it's below freezing, the ground and your interior should moderate the temperatures. Even if the temp drops below freezing, it'll take water a long time to freeze up enough to burst a pipe. If temperatures were below zero all day or it was dropping in the teens, then maybe I'd worry. My dad is currently at the cabin turning on the water, though he isn't quite that far north.

[LightningBG]

I think I would turn it on and use it for the time your up there. Then, before coming home, I'd turn it off and drain what you can, then leave it that way until next time you're up.

Another option if you're worried about it freezing while you are there is to leave one of the faucets dripping so the water is moving ever so slightly.

[Walleye Guy]

I would turn it on and not worry about it. It has to get below freezing for an extended period. If you are at all worried, unplug or turn off the pump when you leave.

[knoppers]

I also agree it should be ok, I turned my on this weekend. I have had it get down to 13 degrees in the fall, and everything was still good. like said, it needs to be under 32 for an extended period. watching the weather and the long term forcast helps also, and eases the nerves.

[traveler]

Thanks for the advice guys. It's up and running, hopefully it'll all be good.