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WATER
Damage due to water claims can be devastating. Familiarity with all water shut - off valves is critical for every resident for a quick response to any unexpected flow of water and its ensuing damage.
Nothing lasts forever without a little loving along the way. Follow manufacturers ’ instructions for all appliances to ensure optimum functioning. Water appliance hoses are often overlooked with all of the other upkeep and maintenance that ’ s required. Even a small undetected leak can cause major damage over time. If the hose bursts, then the potential can be thousands of dollars in repair/replacement costs. It ’ s worth taking the time to replace your hoses every 5 years (or as recommended by the product ’ s manufacturer) at the very least to prevent costly damage. These hoses work hard and maintenance is required to keep them working properly and to avoid any unnecessary breakdowns that could result in substantial insurance claims. Whenever you are tackling maintenance, in this case hose replacements, it is recommended that you tag the hoses with the date and the contractor who carried out the work so you can perform ongoing and timely maintenance. While there are numerous types of supply hoses, they come with different replacement periods and cost. Braided stainless steel for flexibly is more expensive but also the most attractive and durable and has been recommended for top safety and security. The repair/maintenance of appliances is generously the responsibility of unit owners. Every appliance will have a guide to ensure optimum performance and for a longer period of time. It is true, that sometimes the cost to replace is more economical. It ’ s a good practice to get to know the experts for small and large appliances that you can trust to give you qualified guidance as to the reality of repair or replacement. Some of your favourite friends should include a plumber, electrician, small appliance repair
Escalating water costs should also encourage owners to do what is necessary to spot water loss problems quickly and to keep a check on water bills.
1. Locate your water meter to check for hidden leaks in your home. 2. Make sure all indoor and outdoor taps are turned OFF tightly 3. Pick a time during the day when you will not need to use the water for at least 15 minutes – including ice makers, water softeners, etc. 4. Record the numbers from the water meter 5. Wait 10 to 15 minutes and return to the meter to record numbers. 6. If they have not changed, your system is good and there is no need to worry. If the numbers have increased, you have a leak somewhere in your home. Often times the leak is as simple as a running toilet where it runs constantly even when it is not being used. Such problems should not be ignored. However, there could be other reasons for a spike that may require the expertise of a plumber. If you haven ’ t done so already, it is time to get your home ’ s plumbing ready for the colder weather! Here are 5 tips to help ensure your home is ready for the colder months. 1. Disconnect hoses and drain them to ensure any leftover water has been removed. If any water is left inside hoses, when it gets really cold, freezing can potentially break them. Store then 2. Snow birds resuming travel to warmer temperatures for extended periods, should shut off water valves. To check whether it is shut off, test each faucet by turning it on to its highest level. The water should eventually drain and no longer flow. 3. Clear out your home ’ s gutters to ensure leaves or debris will not block water from flowing and draining properly away from the unit. In some corporations that is organized by the board/manager. Report any issues that may arise to the manager/board. 4. Check your hot water tank settings. During colder months your water heater works harder to deliver warm water when you need it. Set the water heater to 50° C to ensure it ’ s prepared to perform at its best. 5. Sump Pump maintenance: if your sump pump is exposed to any extreme temperatures, it may freeze and be unable to operate efficiently. Inspect your sump pump to make sure it is properly insulated and clean. To test it pour a bucket of water in the pit and see if it will kick on. If you find your sump pump is running quite regularly, you may want to consider investing in a back up sump pump. →
CCI Review 2022/2023 - 2 November 2022 Page 22
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