Help !!

[ei_23221]

I winterized my cottage which is located in Virginia about a week ago. It has been below frezzing for over a week in that area of Virginia.

Here is what has gotten me concerned.... After draining all pipes in the house I was unable to use a hose to drain the water heater since they were all frozen and I was running out of time and needed to get back home which is about 120 miles away from the cottage. Anyway.. to cut time I decided to not drain the water heater, but to simply cut OFF the cold water supply valve to the water heater and leave power to the water heater ON. It has been like this for a week.

here are my concerns:
- Since I closed both the cold water supply valve and all of the hot water taps in the house will pressure build up and bust a pipe?
- Will the hot water heater overheat for any reason?'
- Is it possible that I could damage the elemnets?

BTW - If I had a neighbor cut off the power to the water heater how long would it take for the water inside of the WH to freeze in 20 -30 dgree weather in a vented attic?

..let me know what you think.

[DUNBAR PLUMBER]

A body of water similar to a lake or huge puddle takes a longer time to freeze than say a cup of water.


In your situation, I would tend to think that it would be a considerable time before it could freeze solid, but I wouldn't be surprised if it could over time.



I would of had all the hot side water valves open, along with the heater on.


But more importantly, I would of made sure that tank was drained to eliminate any possibility of damage to the tank/pipes.


When you return to the property, follow up with us and let us know what became of your situation.