Here is an article that will enlighten you on how I live up here in Alaska. I don't actually live in a cabin, but a small house without water. We are one of those households that have pipes that froze and broke and we decided not to use them anymore as they would most likely break again. Especially on a day like today where it is minus 30 C. This is the time for eating extra calories and running up the indoor stairs to get the blood flowing. You can also just stand in front of a classroom of a 170 students or try to get a grant application handed in before the deadline at 5 pm. 
I hope you enjoy the article!

http://www.alaskadispatch.com/article/cabin-living-grid-frigid-alaska-labor-love