Sacrificial Anode for Water Heater Replacement A sacrificial anode is a component used in water heaters and other metal structures that are in contact with water. Its purpose is to protect the metal tank from corrosion. Water heaters typically have a metal tank, often made of steel, and water is an electrolyte that can [...]
The quality of water coming out of our plumbing fixtures is a key aspect of maintaining a healthy and comfortable home. When the water looks discolored, it can be alarming for the home owner or buyer. Most will start to ask questions about the water’s safety, origin, and potential impacts on both health and [...]
When inspecting manufactured homes, most defects found are comparable to that of a traditional site built home. However, manufactured homes are unique in that they are typically built off-site in a controlled environment using specific building requirements and can have their own unique set of defects that are commonly found when inspecting manufactured homes [...]
Wood stoves and fireplace inserts have been required to be certified by the EPA since 1992. The Oregon DEQ had a certification program starting even earlier in the 1980s. Therefore, if you have a wood stove that precedes these dates it is likely to be uncertified. Senate Bill 102, the “Heat Smart for Clean [...]
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is manufactured through a process of controlled thermal and chemical treatments. The purpose of tempering is to increase the strength and safety properties of the glass. Modern building standards require safety glass to be installed in multiple locations around a home or building where personal [...]
When a door rubs against its frame or the floor, it creates friction. Over time, this friction can cause wear and tear on both the door and the frame. The constant rubbing can lead to the paint or finish on the door being worn away, exposing the underlying material to potential damage. Similarly, the [...]
A common defect that we find while inspecting showers is that a gap has formed between a fixture, such as the faucet or faucet handle, and the shower enclosure. This is an issue because it presents an avenue for water to make its way behind the enclosure and into the wall assembly. Most faucets [...]
A common electrical issue that home inspectors find is electrical outlets that have hot and neutral wires reversed, or reversed polarity. While this is generally an easy fix, uncorrected it presents a potential shock hazard for a home’s occupants. Reversed polarity occurs when an electrical outlets wiring is installed backwards (hot in the neutral [...]
High water pressure can cause several problems in a home and lead to damage to pipes, fixtures, and appliances. It can also increase the cost of energy and water bills. In this article, we will discuss the effects of high water pressure, what a safe water pressure is, how to reduce water pressure, and [...]
When functioning properly an automatic garage door is a convenient component of a home that helps to protect homeowners and their possessions. A malfunctioning garage door opener, on the other hand, can be a significant safety hazard. Modern garage door openers should have two automatic reverse features installed. They should reverse when resistance is applied [...]
