Spring Cleaning Projects Part 3

Maintenance
LEAKS :
Check your water heater frequently for leaks. Not only is a leaking water heater wasteful, it can cause great amounts of damage if not caught. Water soaking the floor can cause the particle board sub flooring and the sub floor to decay. Even a slow leak can seep into carpeting, create mildew and permanently stain your walls. Even worse, a water heater that is not properly maintained can cause fire or toxic fumes that could pose a real threat to you and your family.
1. Frequently check the pipe connections, the valves and underneath the unit. Check all water lines, connections and valves for signs of leakage, especially where connections have been crimped. With a flashlight, check under the tank for small leaks that could be caused by rust and corrosion.
2. Once a year, take time to test the temperature/pressure relief valve to make sure it's working. Be careful when you do. The water in the tank is HOT and can cause scalding burns. Pull up or push down on the valve handle; hot water should come out of the overflow pipe. If it does, the valve is working properly.
3. Periodically drain a bucket of water from the drain faucet at the bottom of the water tank. Again, take care not to get burned by the hot water. Draining a bucket of water will remove sediment from the tank bottom that could corrode the unit as well as reduce its heating efficiency.

TIPS :

• Set the temperature on your water heater at 120 degrees or lower. Water that's too hot can cause severe burns. Children and the elderly are most sensitive to hot water.
• Don't use or store flammable paints, chemicals and aerosol sprays near your water heater. The vapors could ignite and cause a fire.
• When installing a water heater wrap, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Cut out access to the controls, thermostat, drain and pilot light.
• Make sure the water heater wrap doesn't block air supply areas, including the bottom of the heater and vent connections.

TROUBLE SHOOTING :
If your hot water heater is not heating or is overflowing check the following :
1. Is the flu clogged?
2. Reset the thermostat higher.
3. If it is overflowing, reset the thermostat lower.

Sump pump
Test sump pump to make sure it removes water from the crock.

Septic System
Homes that are not

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