Plumbing Africa April 2018 | Page 66

64 ASSOCIATIONS Fixed electrical water heater warranty guideline The Institute of Plumbing South Africa (IOPSA) has facilitated with industry leaders and geyser manufacturers for the development of a guideline to alleviate confusion in the industry relating to fixed electrical water heating (geyser) cylinder failures. By IOPSA The confusion and frustrations have arisen due to a very high percentage of non-compliant installations versus actual product failures, and whether poor installation has resulted in the product failure. To avoid such confusion, industry has collaboratively created a guideline that aims to support plumbing installers and manufacturers, clarifying critical areas that determine where incorrect installation can be used as a technical reason to void a warranty claim. It is important to note that geyser manufacturers are within their rights to void a warranty claim based on an installation not being compliant; however, they also have the responsibility to support their product in the industry if failure is determined to be a manufacturing fault. This guideline will provide critical standards that, if followed correctly by the plumber, will help to prevent product failure from happening. On the other hand, this document will provide information that supports technical reasons as to why a manufacturer may void a warranty due to non-compliant installation. It will further give guidance to consumers with respect to plumbers indicating possible warranty issues on the non- compliance notices. It must be noted that compliance to all regulations and standards applicable to a fixed electrical water heating system are to be adhered to. April 2018 Volume 24 I Number 2