Water Heaters
Stall Showers And Bathtubs
Toilets
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The pipes that carry water underground to the property are usually galvanized, copper, or plastic. The interior pipes are usually galvanized or copper. Since building codes vary by jurisdiction, check with your own local building department for current codes.
Water Heaters
A typical water heater is approximately 5 feet tall. At the top of the water heater are two pipes, one with a shutoff valve( the cold water inlet side). This is the valve that shuts off the hot water to all the fixtures in the property. The water pipes are usually connected to the water heater by flexible connectors.
A gas water heater has a vent at the top to allow heat and unburned gases to escape. It should be connect to a venting system which terminates at least a foot above the roof. At or near the top should be a temperature and pressure relief valve. The purpose of this TPRV is to prevent the buildup of excess heat and pressure. If it leaks, it can be replaced.
At the bottom is a valve that is used for draining the water heater. This too, as well as every other component previously discussed can be replaced if they prove to be defective. However, if the water heater is old, and looks like it may give you problems, it’ s better to replace it now than to have to be bothered with it later.
Stall Showers And Bathtubs
Your property might have any combination of standard bathtub, shower over tub, shower enclosure, or stall shower. If the shower or tub has a glass enclosure, it must be tempered safety glass or approved plastic. The shower head, faucets, and spout should all be in good working condition. If
26 not, they can all be replaced. Check and replace if necessary any worn grouting and caulking.
Toilets
Make sure the toilet is secured properly to the floor. Check for leaks around the base. If it does leak, it’ s probably as simple as a new wax ring that goes under the toilet. Flush the toilet and let it fill. If it keeps running, either the tank ball assembly or the flapper may need to be replaced, or the water level should be adjusted so that it shuts off before it reaches the top of the overflow. If the toilet is cracked either in the tank, the bowl, or at the base, or otherwise causing too many problems, replace it.
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