INSPECTOR INSIGHTS: HOT WATER HEATERS

Hot water heaters are an essential piece of our households.  They deliver us hot water when we need it.  But when they expire, you can suddenly find yourself without hot water.

But how can we tell if they are about to go?
 
Generally, the industry recommends replacing a hot water heater anywhere from 8-10 years from the manufacture date.
 
But how can you tell the manufacture date?  Some companies make it easy, by putting it very obviously on the label.  But many don't.  That is ok though, because it is standard to embed the manufacture date in the serial number.
 
Each company codes its serial number slightly differently, so it may require a little research to find how it has been done.  A good website to look at is http://www.buildingcenter.org/.  They have a 'one stop shop' on how to read different kind of serial numbers.

The other danger from hot water is they can cause a lot of damage to the surrounding area.  This is because a common way hot water tanks expire is by springing a leak from some part, then dumping its contents everywhere.  If your hot water tank is located in a finished basement, or a condo unit, this can create a water damage everywhere.
 
Ideally it is best to change your hot water tank before this happens.  However if you have a drain near your hot water tank, you can take some comfort that the drain can indeed pick up much of the water before it can damage everywhere.  A drain pan can help also direct more of the water towards the drain.

Aaron Borsch
Certified Master Home Inspector (CMHI)
A Buyer's Choice Home Inspections - Tricities, BC
Inspected Once.  Inspected Right!
 
License #: 53540
Phone: 604-880-0818
Email: Aaron.Borsch@abuyerschoice.com
Website: tricity.abuyerschoice.com
 
 

BACK TO WORK

We're back to the TGIF blog after the holidays!  Happy New Year to all our friends and clients - wishing you a year of fun, fulfilment and good health.  Talking of which, flu shots seem more necessary than ever this year, and...for every age group.
 

    The Canadian Real Estate Association just released their 2013 statistics which are all over positive for the first time since the bubble burst - on average across Canada prices increased by 4%.  Remember, this is an average.  If you live in west side Vancouver, this statistic will hold - if you live in our TriCities, the statistic doesn't reflect in our sale prices.  However, our detached market is presently strong with low inventory & showing some surprising multiple offers.  If the inventory didn't increase with the Spring, then this would force prices up - but, if our ringing phone is any indication, inventory will increase and stabilise the market.  Price and presentation still the keys.  Even if a home is priced below market,, it's still a tough sell if there is poor maintenace and no updates.  Townhomes are selling again after a sluggish year last year - but the prices have to be really sharp and the condition first class.  Our condo market is still down - way too many on the market - resales and new builds.  This will take some time to bounce back - it's the perfect lesson in supply and demand.  Again - if a condo presents beautifully with great finish, it will appeal more strongly to the ready, willing and able buyers.  

   
 Last year all the norms went out of the window - Spring was slow, then come summer we were run off our feet - buyers actually buying and sellers selling.  Pretty much, the mementum kept up and the market just trucked on til now. We are mighty curious to see what the Spring brings.  Our prediction is that our detached market will continue to be active, and that, if the indications of large inventory are correct, prices will hold and the market will stabilise.  Our condo market, specially older buildings , will continue to slide with massive competition from new buildings and the costs of preparing their deficiency reports.  A great time to buy for first time home buyers before the interest rates rise and while prices are down.  

   
 Thanks to all of you who made our year 2013 so momentous - we enjoyed every minute.  Watch out for our new client loyalty program  - coming to you soon from a real estate team near you.  Call/email us with your questions and comments!  

Till next week, we have you covered!  

Sheila