Seasonal Open & Close
Spring de-winterize: charge the lines, fire the water heater, check for freeze damage. Fall close: blow out, drain, button up.
About this service
Seasonal cabins need the same plumbing rituals every year — done right, done in order. We handle the open and close so the first weekend up isn't spent chasing a leak, and the last weekend isn't rushed.
Signs it's time to call
- Cabin is used seasonally and sits unheated for months.
- Last winter's close was a rush, or you're not sure it was finished.
- Water heater or appliances haven't been serviced in years.
- You want a checklist someone else owns.
How we approach it
- Spring open: charge the system, refill the water heater before energizing, check fixtures and supply lines.
- Fall close: shut off supply, blow out lines, drain water heater, antifreeze the traps.
- Inspect for any damage from the off-season and flag anything that should be fixed before next trip.
- Leave a written record of what was done.
Common Questions
When should I schedule my seasonal open?
A week or two before your first planned trip — that gives time to deal with anything we find without canceling the weekend. We book up fast in late April and May; reach out early.
What's involved in opening a cabin in spring?
Inspect for any winter damage, charge the lines slowly, refill the water heater before energizing it, check every fixture for leaks, verify the well or cistern pump, and flush any antifreeze out of the system.
Why fill the water heater before turning it on?
An electric heater with elements energized in a dry tank burns the elements out in seconds. Gas heaters are more forgiving but it's still hard on them. Always refill, then power.
What if you find freeze damage during the open?
We'll find it, document it, give you photos and a written quote, and most of the time we can repair the same day or the next trip. We carry common parts on the truck so a single split line doesn't blow up your weekend.
When should I schedule the fall close?
After your last planned trip but before the first hard freeze — usually mid-October through early November depending on elevation. Earlier in McCall and Cascade, later in the lower valleys.
Can I open or close the cabin myself if I've done it before?
Absolutely. We're happy to do it for you, walk you through it once, or just consult on the parts you're unsure about. No pressure either way.
Do you leave a written record?
Yes. Every open and close gets a checklist of what was done, anything we noticed, and recommended follow-ups. You can hand it to the next caretaker without explaining a thing.
Should the appliances be drained too?
Yes — dishwasher, ice maker, clothes washer all need to be addressed at close. Each has a specific procedure and they're easy to miss. We include them in a full close.
Will you coordinate with my cabin caretaker?
Happy to. Plenty of our cabin owners live out of state, and the caretaker is who walks us through the door. Just give them our number and we'll handle scheduling.
What does a seasonal open or close cost?
Most are flat-rate based on cabin size and fixture count, with travel time built in for the back country. We'll quote up front when you book.
Need Seasonal Open & Close at your cabin?
Tell us where the property is and what's going on. We'll plan the trip and bring the right parts.