Page 71 - KHovanian Homes - Pathway to Homeownership

Section 9 | Home Care & Maintenance producing steam in the pipes. To resolve, gradually reduce the water heater temperature setting until the steam is reduced. • Abruptly turning off a faucet in areas with high water pressure can produce a pounding or knocking sound. To resolve slightly close the main shut-off valve. • Air can get into the pipes. To resolve, open all interior and exterior faucets and run for a few minutes allowing all air to pass through the system. Frozen Pipes: Prevention is the best cure. • During extreme cold weather conditions, keep pipes from freezing by allowing the faucets to drip slightly. Also, leave the sink cabinet doors open to allow heat inside to warm the pipes. • Do not leave the home or any room without heat during cold weather. • Close crawl space vents and cover them with insulation. Safe Defrosting of Pipes: Freezing is most likely to occur near an outer wall that is exposed to winter winds. • Begin by restoring heat to the effected area. • Open all faucets connected to the pipeline so steam can escape during thawing. • Begin thawing slowly at the frozen point nearest the faucet. Thaw slowly to prevent formation of steam, which can cause pipes to rupture or burst. A heat lamp set at least six inches from a plasterboard or wall panel will thaw the pipes behind it. For exposed pipes use a hair dryer or rent a heat cable to wrap around the pipe. • As the pipe thaws, move the source of the heat to the next frozen area until all pipes have been defrosted. If drain traps have been affected pour hot water into the drain until thawed. Do not use boiling water since pipes can crack from such a drastic temperature change. PLUMBING - WATER SHUT-OFFS Your water system is equipped with several shut-off valves in case of a water leak. At each sink or toilet you will find a shut-off for that particular unit. It is best to use these as they allow you to use water in the rest of your home. However, if you can not isolate the leak, you also have a main water shut-off valve. This valve may be located in the basement, garage, storage room, closet, or laundry room. The location was shown to you at the Gold Key Orientation. The shut-off is the center of the plumbing system, the point at which the main water line comes into the home. If a major plumbing problem occurs, turn off the main shut-off valve to prevent flooding. It is a good idea to show every family member where the shut-off valve is located and how to close it during an emergency. Maintenance Guidelines • Only in the case of an emergency should you ever need to shut your entire water system down. If you ever have a water leak try to use the individual shut-offs first before doing anything else. • Water is the most serious threat to your home. It can cause permanent damage to concrete, floor coverings, walls, ceilings, and woodwork, to name just a few things. Take all water leaks seriously and take care of them immediately to avoid costly repairs to your home. Refer to the Home Care and Maintenance Guide for Water Intrusion within this Section. PLUMBING - FAUCETS AND FIXTURES The plumbing fixtures in your home include the water heater, bathtubs, showers, toilets, sinks, and in some locations, sump pumps. Most plumbing fixtures in your home are plated with polished brass, chrome, or a combination of the two. Since these are not covered by our warranty, or a manufacturer’s warranty, take care to keep them looking good. Note: As equipment technology changes frequently, the Manufacturer’s Service Manuals will supersede all recommendations and procedures contained in this manual. Maintenance Guidelines • Clean your fixtures with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse with clear water and wipe dry to prevent spotting and soap buildup. • Don’t let water stand at the base of your fixtures as Edition July 2019 | 53