REI WEALTH MONTHLY Issue 45 | Page 26

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 .
REHABBING FOR BIGGER
PROFITS