Why Winter Power Outages Are So Risky for Cottages
Cottages in areas like Haliburton, Bancroft, and Algonquin Highlands are often:
Left unoccupied during winter
Heated by electric systems or heat pumps
Surrounded by trees and exposed to severe weather
Without power, interior temperatures can drop quickly. In as little as 12–24 hours, pipes can freeze, wells can stop functioning, and alarm or monitoring systems may go offline.
Preparation is the difference between peace of mind and an emergency call.
1. Protect Your Plumbing From Freezing
Frozen pipes are one of the most expensive and common winter cottage issues.
Steps to take:
Shut off and drain seasonal water lines if the cottage isn’t regularly used
Insulate exposed pipes in crawlspaces and basements
Leave cabinet doors open near plumbing to allow heat circulation
Install heat tape on vulnerable pipes (professionally installed)
Pro Tip: If you rely on electric heat, a power outage means no heat at all—making pipe protection even more critical.
2. Install a Backup Heat Source
A secondary heat source can prevent interior temperatures from dropping too fast.
Good options include:
Propane fireplaces or wall heaters
Wood stoves (with proper clearance and maintenance)
Generator-powered heaters (used safely and correctly)
Even a small amount of residual heat can prevent freezing while power is restored.
3. Consider a Generator or Battery Backup
A standby generator or portable generator can keep critical systems running during an outage.
What to prioritize:
Heating system
Well pump or water system
Fridge/freezer
Security or monitoring equipment
For cottages used year-round, a professionally installed automatic standby generator offers the most protection and convenience.
4. Prepare for Well & Septic System Disruptions
Power outages affect more than just lights and heat.
Important considerations:
Wells require electricity to function
Septic systems can freeze without water flow
Avoid running water during an outage if freezing is possible
If the outage is extended, it’s best to fully shut down water systems until power returns.
5. Clear Snow and Maintain Access
After storms, cottages can be completely inaccessible—delaying repairs or inspections.
Make sure:
Driveways and access roads are cleared
Vents, propane tanks, and exhaust pipes are not buried in snow
Emergency services could reach the property if needed
Regular snow clearing is essential during prolonged winter weather.
6. Use a Property Monitoring or Check-In Service
For owners who live hours away, this is one of the most effective protections.
A professional winter property check can:
Confirm interior temperatures
Identify frozen or burst pipes early
Check for power outages or generator issues
Clear snow and inspect the exterior
Catching issues early can save thousands in repairs.
7. Create a Winter Power Outage Checklist
Every cottage should have a simple plan:
Emergency contact list
Generator instructions
Water shut-off location
Local service provider contacts
Backup keys access plan
This ensures quick action when weather hits.
How Cottage Worx Helps Protect Your Cottage This Winter
At Cottage Worx, we specialize in winter cottage care and emergency readiness across Haliburton, Bancroft, and surrounding cottage communities.
Our services include:
Winter property checks
Snow clearing and access maintenance
Emergency response visits
Seasonal shutdowns and inspections
Ongoing cottage care programs
Whether your cottage is occupied or vacant, we help you stay ahead of winter problems—before they turn into costly emergencies.
Don’t Wait for the Power to Go Out
Mid-winter outages are unpredictable, but preparation doesn’t have to be.
Contact Cottage Worx today to schedule a winter property check or learn more about our cottage care programs. Protect your investment and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.