Review the location of all of the shutoff valves in
your home with all your family members so you'll be prepared for emergencies.
Whole-house water shutoff valves: The main shutoff should be beside the meter if you are on City water. If you use a well, the shutoff will be on the house side of the pressure tank. You should also cut power to the tank.
Whole-house hot water shutoff: There should be a valve on the hot water outlet of the water heater, which controls all of the hot water to the house.
Toilet shutoffs: Show your entire family how to shut off the toilet by turning the ribbed oval handle under the tank if it ever starts to overflow.
Sink shutoffs: You should handles beneath the sinks or within the cabinets; the one on the left is usually for hot water, the one on the right for cold.
Dishwasher shutoffs: Look under the kitchen sink for a reducer coupling and shutoff valve leading to the dishwasher on the ½ inch hot water sink supply line. It could also be between ceiling joists just below the appliance if you have a basement.
Washing machine: Valves are usually where the washer hoses meet the house supply lines. However, washer hoses are notoriously weak, so consider changing them routinely every year or at least close the valves when leaving home for an extended period.
Gas shutoff valve: Identify location and show entire family how to shut off.
Electrical Panel/Breaker box: Identify location and show entire family how to shut off main breaker in an emergency, or flip any circuits back on after an overload. (If it's a common occurrence, consider hiring
an electrician to upgrade your panel or wiring) .
GAS-FIRED, FORCES-AIR CENTRAL
HEATING SYSTEMS:
·
Hire a pro to inspect the thermostat, electrical components
and controls, check the heat exchanger, flue, ducts, air flow and
air fuel mixture, adjust the burner and oil the motor and circulating
fan.
·
Arrange for service calls before the start of heating
and cooling season to get better attention and have more flexibility
when scheduling appointments.
HEAT PUMP:
·
Schedule an annual service call to have a certified
professional to inspect the wiring, check belts and replace if needed,
and oil the moving parts.
·
Arrange for service calls before the start of heating
and cooling season to get better attention and have more flexibility
when scheduling appointments.
OIL-FIRED BOILERS:
·
Hire a professional for annual maintenance including
flue cleaning, a fuel-filter change, cleaning and adjustment of the
jets.
·
Arrange for service calls before the start of heating
and cooling season to get better attention and have more flexibility
when scheduling appointments.
FIREPLACES AND CHIMNEYS:
·
Have your wood burning fireplaces and stoves inspected
annually and cleaned and repaired as required to prevent chimney fires,
carbon monoxide poisoning and mortar and flashing failure.
·
Water leaks can also cause your mortar to deteriorate
prematurely. Consider installing a chimney cap to protect your chimney
from water, debris, and critters.
CLEAN CARPETING, UPHOLSTERY
AND DRAPERIES:
·
Have your carpets, upholstery and draperies cleaned
regularly, once every 12 to 18 months, to remove the dirt and grit
that can wear them out prematurely.
·
You should also have carpets cleaned after any event
such as remodeling or holiday parties and eliminate stains as quickly
as possible.
APPLIANCES:
·
Inspect appliance hoses and ventilation according
to owners' manuals.
© Copyright 1999-2008, ServiceMagic, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
