Preparing For Winter In Your Manufactured Home

Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for winter in your new home:
  • Skirting should be installed per the manufacturer's instructions, keeping in mind to provide for adequate ventilation so that odor or condensation problems do not occur. Make sure all drain lines from air conditioner, heat pump, etc. drain to outside of skirting of home.
  • Close all access points in skirting to keep rodents and other wild animals from living under your home. Adjust storm door closures for proper closing action and latch function to allow for a minimum of air infiltration.
  • Vent the clothes dryer directly outside the home. Improper venting will contribute to major condensation problems in the home.
  • Water lines should be protective by wrapping them first with an approved heat cable. Install the heat cable per the manufacturer's instructions, which may vary according to the type of water riser in place; or contact an IMHA member service firm. At the beginning of cold weather, check to be sure heat tapes are plugged in and in good working condition. If gone for extended time, it is wise to shut off water supply.
  • Sewer lines should be installed to allow proper angle for good drainage. If your sewer line has any sag or low spots, tie it up to the frame or block it underneath. Water will lie in these low spots and freeze.
  • Furnace filters should be installed and cleaned regularly (monthly minimum) as air cannot pass freely through a dirty filter thereby increasing your operating costs.
  • Check for ice or snow buildup around your furnace or water heater roof caps. It is important to keep this area open to provide for the proper operation.
  • During periods of severe cold, leave cupboard and closet doors open at night and when you are away so that heat may circulate in these otherwise cold areas.
  • Avoid pouring small amounts of liquid in sinks and toilets, as a small amount of liquid by itself may freeze in your drain in severe cold weather. Do not leave a small stream of water running from the faucet as this may cause sewer lines to freeze.
  • Check the underside of your home for any holes in the belly covering and patch as this will let in wind and cause cold interior floors. Be sure all registers are in working order and sealed. Replace any inoperative or damaged registers. On multi-section homes, make sure crossover pipe is installed to both halves of the home and is in good working condition. (Note: There should be no holes and no water in this pipe and it should be fully insulated.)
  • Check to be sure heat tapes are plugged in and in good working condition.
  • Fix all plumbing leaks to keep sewer lines from freezing. Sometimes toilet tank leaks can be small and unobservable. To check toilet tank for leak, tie the float up in the evening; and if the tank is lower in the morning, it leaks.

Disclaimer
The above items are merely suggestions for maintaining your home. You should always consult your manufactured home owner's manual for specific instructions.