Winterizing Your Cottage: A Step-by-Step Guide for Ontario Cottage Owners

Winterizing Your Cottage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Owning a cottage in Ontario means enjoying lazy summer afternoons on the dock, peaceful autumn walks in the woods—and, if you’re not careful, a long winter of frozen pipes and costly repairs. Before the first snow flies, it’s essential to properly winterize your cottage so it stays safe, dry, and ready for your return next season.

Whether your getaway sits on Muskoka’s rocky shores or along the Trent-Severn, this guide will walk you through everything you need to do to protect your cottage from Ontario’s harsh winter weather.

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1. Shut Off and Drain Your Water System

Freezing temperatures are public enemy number one when it comes to cottage maintenance. Any water left in your pipes, pumps, or fixtures can freeze, expand, and burst—causing thousands in damage.

Steps:

• Turn off the main water supply. If you’re on a well, shut off the power to the pump.

• Drain all pipes. Open every faucet, flush toilets, and drain outdoor taps and hoses.

• Empty your hot water tank. This is often forgotten, but it’s one of the most expensive things to replace if it bursts.

• Add antifreeze. Pour a non-toxic RV antifreeze into toilets, sinks, and traps to prevent leftover water from freezing.

💡 Pro Tip: If your cottage is older or you’re not confident about your plumbing setup, consider hiring a local plumber who specializes in seasonal properties.

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2. Protect Your Septic System

Ontario winters can be tough on septic systems. Freezing can cause backups or cracks, and spring thaw can add even more stress.

• Pump your septic tank if it’s due or nearly full.

• Don’t leave standing water around the tank or leaching bed.

• Mark the location with tall stakes so the system isn’t damaged by snowplows or snowmobiles.

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3. Unplug, Clean, and Defrost Appliances

Once your plumbing is taken care of, move inside. Unplug all major appliances to prevent power surges or fire risks.

• Defrost your fridge and freezer and leave the doors slightly open to prevent mould.

• Clean the oven and microwave to avoid attracting mice with leftover crumbs.

• Unplug electronics (TVs, routers, etc.) and store cords neatly to prevent wear.

If you’re keeping the heat on low over winter, set appliances to “vacation mode” where possible.

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4. Inspect and Seal Windows, Doors, and the Roof

Winter winds and snow can quickly find their way into even the smallest cracks.

• Walk around your cottage and check for gaps around windows and doors. Apply weatherstripping or caulking where needed.

• Inspect your roof for missing shingles, loose flashing, or branches that could fall.

• Clean out gutters and downspouts so melting snow can drain properly come spring.

💡 Pro Tip: If your cottage is surrounded by trees, trim back branches that hang over the roof—heavy snow or ice can cause them to snap.

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5. Secure the Interior and Keep Out Critters

Mice, squirrels, raccoons, and even bats are always looking for a cozy winter home.

• Seal any openings around vents, eaves, or crawl spaces.

• Remove all food, including pantry items, birdseed, and pet food.

• Leave traps or deterrents (like steel wool in small holes) to discourage visitors.

• Cover furniture with breathable sheets to keep it dust-free.

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6. Manage Your Heat and Power

If you plan to keep the heat on at a low setting, set it around 10°C (50°F) to prevent freezing. For cottages that will be completely shut down:

• Turn off the main breaker except for any circuits that control alarms, sump pumps, or thermostats.

• If you have a wood stove, clean out ashes and close the flue tightly.

• For cottages with baseboard heaters, vacuum out dust to reduce fire risk.

Consider installing a smart thermostat or temperature monitor that can alert you if the temperature drops dangerously low.

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7. Do a Final Walkthrough

Before locking up for the season:

• Take out all garbage and recycling.

• Store outdoor furniture, boats, and toys in a shed or covered area.

• Double-check that all doors and windows are locked.

• Leave a list of emergency contacts (local handyman, plumber, or neighbour) somewhere visible.

Taking photos or videos before you leave can be a good idea for insurance purposes.

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8. Bonus: Check on Your Cottage Mid-Winter

If you live nearby—or can arrange for a neighbour or caretaker—it’s smart to have someone check on your property once or twice during the winter. A quick look inside can catch leaks, ice buildup, or animal damage before they become major problems.

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Final Thoughts

Winterizing your Ontario cottage may take a day or two of effort, but it’s one of the best ways to protect your investment and ensure a smooth, stress-free start next spring. By properly draining, sealing, and securing your property now, you’ll avoid the unpleasant surprises that can come with Ontario’s freeze–thaw cycle.

So grab a thermos of coffee, your checklist, and maybe a friend to help—and give your cottage the care it deserves before the snow flies.

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