- Water Heaters
Most structures have their water heated by either electric, gas, or
oil-fired water heaters. Tanks range from 32 to 80+ gallons,
and have different heating capabilities. They are covered with a
layer of enamel to prevent rusting. To guard against both excessive
temperature and pressure, these heaters must have a
temperature/pressure relief valve to release water when either the
temperature or pressure threshold of the water heater is reached.
The Temperature settings need to be adjusted for maximum safety and
heater life, as do magnesium rods suspended in some tanks to attract
electrolytes in the water.
- Water Softeners
Water in some geographical areas contains excessive calcium and
magnesium deposits, known as "hard" water, which leave
rings and can be unhealthy. The sodium used in water softeners
should not affect diet, but drinking water can be averted around
water softeners to avoid excess sodium in drinking water.
- Toilets
Toilets, though they may seem complicated, are actually very simple
mechanisms that require proper maintenance to keep flushing for a
lifetime. Different mechanisms that require occasional inspection
include the rubber stopper and valve seals used in flushing the
toilet, to check for tightness.
- Septic Tanks
Liquid and solid wastes are separated in septic tanks. A working
tank should always be filled to the level of the outlet pump. As the
liquid level rises, excess will flow through the outlet and into the
drain field, which consists of perforated pipes flowing away
from your building to relieve liquid wastes. They should be made of
either steel (most durable) or fiberglass, and hold from 500 to 1500
gallons.
- Seepage Pits
Seepage pits can have a lifetime of 20 years if properly installed
and maintained. This includes a professional servicing/pumping every
2 to 4 years, depending upon the frequency of use and number of
people using them.
- Connections
Plumbing in your building is useless if the piping connecting
everything is leaking or in bad shape. There should be NO
cross-connections, points where contaminated water or wastes and
potable water are allowed to mix.
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