Temperature for empty house

Hello Tom
I have tried the radio show have not been able to get through. Hopefully
this can get a response and I will keep trying.
We own a part time home in Jackman. It is a full size house. We would
like to shut it down November to May, drain the pipes etc. I know that one
should not totally shut the heat down in a house with a foundation. We
would like to consider
redirecting some of the heat ducts directly into the basement for this time
and install a thermostat down there. What is the minimum tempetature we
could keep that basement? Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank
you.
Jeff

Hi Jeff,
If you want to turn down the heat, install a low temperature thermostat on
the first floor, drain all the pipes and antifreeze the drains.
If you heat just the basement, you run the risk of condensation damage on
the floor.
Basements usually do not freeze, especially if you are keeping some low
level heat in the house.
Tom