Before attempting any plumbing repair, be certain that the shut off valve that controls the branch off system on which you are working is in good working order. In case of unexpected damage to a plumbing fixture, you must be able to shut off the water to that area. Neglecting this precaution could result in property damage.

Always turn off the electricity at the circuit breaker when working on any item through which electricity is running (e.g. hot water heater, furnace, appliances, etc.)

WASTE DISPOSAL SYSTEM RECOMMENDATIONS


  • Professional servicing of waste disposal system every two years or more frequently if indicated.

  • Colored or printed-paper should not be used in waste disposal system (unless approved by the manufacturer). Dyes prevent decomposition of paper.

  • Chemical or biological aids should not be placed in the system, as they may be detrimental to the function of the absorption system.


PLUMBING SYSTEM - If a house has been vacant, the plumbing system may be prone to leakage and/or slow drains.

SHOWER PANS - Shower pans are prone to leakage. Inspect around them to be sure any leakage has not resulted in damage or decay.

INTERIOR SHUTOFF VALVES - The main water shutoff valve in many houses may go for years without ever being operated. Under these conditions, the valve may become frozen with corrosion so it can no longer be turned. It if is a seat-and-washer type valve, the washer may crumble and break up, so even if the valve turns, it may not stop the water. If your main shutoff valve is of this type (a "globe valve") and is old, then we recommend it be replaced with a "gate valve" or a lever operated "stopcock" type of valve. In any case the main shutoff should be "exercised" (i.e. operated) annually to ensure that it works and does not leak.

GENERAL PLUMBING RECOMMENDATIONS


  • Drain exterior water lines, hose connections, and sprinklers in fall.

  • Periodically check faucets, valves, and hose bibs for leakage.

  • Periodically check for leaks at housetraps, sewer cleanouts, and sinks.

  • To prolong hot water heater life, drain off sediment from bottom of tank monthly or per manufacturer's instructions.

  • Periodically caulk around tubs, showers, enclosures, and floor tile to keep bathrooms watertight.

  • Maintain condition of bath tile.

  • Check washing machine hoses frequently for signs of deterioration. A hose in good condition should be supple and flexible. If hoses become stiff or seem "brittle", or show signs of cracks blisters or bulges, replace them.

  • Older washing machine drain standpipes are usually only 1½ “diameter pipe. Modern washing machines discharge their water faster than the older machines and require a 2” standpipe. If your laundry facility has a 1½” diameter standpipe, you may have to upgrade it to 2” diameter pipe to accommodate a new washing machine.

  • Older galvanized piping will be subject to periodic repair/replacement.

  • Older drain lines and connections will require periodic cleaning and repairs.

  • Older plumbing fixtures will require periodic maintenance and repairs.


WATER HEATER - For personal safety - disconnect the power before removing cover plate to electric water heater. Do not store flammable materials on top of, against or near gas or oil-fired water heaters.

GENERAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM RECOMMENDATIONS


  • Use proper size fuses in fuse panels.

  • Operate circuit breaker switches every six months to break possible oxide coating built up on switches.

  • Test ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI or GFI) monthly. Ground fault interrupters protect circuits where damp conditions and electrical leakage can cause a serious shock.

  • Keep trees and bushes trimmed back from wiring and cables.

  • If touching an appliance results in a slight tingling shock, have appliance checked.

  • Replace any receptacle that no longer grips a plug firmly and securely. If a plug tends to fall out or pull out of a receptacle very easily, the plug can overheat and become a potential fire hazard.

  • Replace any wall switch where the toggle feels loose or sloppy when the switch is operated.

  • Replace any wall switch that produces a visible spark or which makes an audible buzzing or arcing when operated.

  • Inspect the plastic (Bakelite) sockets in ceiling fixtures annually. After years of service the Bakelite shell of the socket tends to become brittle and disintegrate. Inspect the contact button at the bottom of the socket. If it appears blackened or heavily oxidized, replace the socket.

  • Allow for periodic repairs to electrical switches, outlets, and fixtures due to normal wear factors.


“LIVE FRONT” FUSE PANEL - Since there is no protective interior cover, a “live front” fuse panel poses a potential hazard, (shock or electrocution). Replacement with an upgraded circuit breaker panel is recommended.

CIRCUIT BREAKER PANELS - It is generally difficult to locate replacements for older brands. Federal Pacific brand may be repair prone. Some of this equipment has been known to not perform satisfactorily.

KNOB & TUBE WIRING - Due to the age and limitations of this type of wiring, upgrading is recommended. If the insulation on this wiring is damaged, or if additional circuits have been spliced into knob & tube wiring, a potential hazard may exist.

ALUMINUM WIRING ON 120VOLT CIRCUITS - Without proper connections, aluminum wiring on 120-volt circuits is a potential fire hazard. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends AMP, Inc. connections as the only safe method. Other methods are available and approved by local counties. Recommend having all 120volt connections checked and/or improved by a licensed electrician.

LOW VOLTAGE LIGHTING SYSTEMS - Systems of this type tend to require higher maintenance due to the use of relays. As relays fail, they must be replaced. Replacement parts may no longer be available and therefore the system may require conversion to a conventional type. Most of the modern systems are universal. If adding lights, be certain not to exceed the wattage that is capable from the supplied transformer.

Part 1 - Roof and Exterior
Part 2 - Heating and Cooling
Part 3 - Plumbing and Electrical
Part 4 - Windows and Doors