Water Heater
WATER HEATERS
The life of a water heater is as early as 7 years and possibly up to 10 years (please check with your heater manufacturer); however, the leakage from a water heater can be expensive.
Water heaters do not sweat or drip so any moisture from a water heater is a leak and a potential problem.
Regularly check the top of your water heater for any signs of rust: around the area on top and, where the top, grey section meets the white tank. Signs of rust or leakage should be dealt with.
Another area to be aware of is the copper piping just above the water heater. This includes the mixing valve which is a safety feature (to determine the temperature of the water).
If you notice a reduction in the water temperature (that is not attributable to the season change) then there may be a problem with the copper pipe/valve.
For units with a Reliance water tank, please note that the copper pipes/valve are not the responsibility of Reliance.
The tube that runs vertical (next to the heater exterior) is the safety release valve and is a common area for leakage. The bottom end of the tube should be no more than 18” from the ground.
The water heater, like our washing machines must sit inside a metal tray.
Consider buying a water alarm to put on the floor next to the water heater to detect early leaks. (Wi-fi enabled is best and easily found online)
MIXER VALVE: Important information about the mixer valve over the hot water heater.
If away from the unit, we should turn off the water (see below), and turn off the water heater (at the breaker if necessary).
Often, insurance policies are in-effective if you are away from your unit for a while (for more than 72 hours in some instances). Why not check with your insurer.
LOCATION OF THE MAIN WATER SHUT-OFF
Each of our condos is supplied by one water pipe - you will find this in your mechanical room. The pipe has a levered valve which controls the water supply to the condo and there is a second levered valve to controls the hot water heater. Each installation is a bit different but the principle is the same.
An example of the unit's water shut-off valve (there are other configurations)
Usually located close to the ceiling and near your water heater.
Important information about the mixer valve over the hot water heater.
Written by residents for residents