### Third Week of Month: Water Systems and Plumbing & ### Fourth Week of Month: Electrical and Lighting Systems

Preventing the $4,000 Water Damage Disaster

Water damage is the #2 insurance claim after wind/hail, averaging $4,000 per incident. Monthly plumbing checks prevent 80% of water-related problems.

Water Heater Monthly Check (Time: 15 minutes, Cost: $0)

Safety and Efficiency Inspection: 1. Visual inspection of tank and connections - Look for rust, corrosion, or mineral buildup - Check for water pooling around base - Inspect temperature/pressure relief valve - Verify proper venting (gas units)

2. Test temperature relief valve (every 6 months) - Lift test lever briefly - Should hear water flow and stop when released - If no water flows, valve needs replacement ($100-$200)

3. Check water temperature - Should be 120°F for efficiency and safety - Adjust thermostat if needed - Higher temps waste energy and risk scalding

Plumbing Leak Detection (Time: 20 minutes, Cost: $0)

Monthly Leak Hunt Protocol: 1. Check water meter before and after 2-hour no-use period - Any movement indicates a leak - Document meter readings monthly

2. Inspect visible pipes and fixtures - Under sinks and around toilets - Basement and crawl space pipes - Water supply lines to appliances - Look for water stains, corrosion, drips

3. Test all faucets and fixtures - Turn on each faucet to check flow and shutoff - Flush all toilets and check for running water - Test shower and tub fixtures - Check water pressure consistency

Drain Maintenance (Time: 10 minutes, Cost: $5-$10)

Monthly Drain Care: - Pour boiling water down kitchen sink weekly - Use enzyme drain cleaner monthly (avoid chemicals) - Check all drain stoppers for hair/debris - Verify proper drainage speed in all fixtures

Warning Signs Requiring Professional Attention: - Slow drains in multiple fixtures - Gurgling sounds from drains - Sewer odors from fixtures - Water backing up in unusual places

The Silent Danger: Electrical Issues Cost Lives and Money

Electrical problems cause 51,000 house fires annually, resulting in $1.3 billion in property damage. Monthly electrical checks prevent dangerous conditions and expensive repairs.

Electrical Panel Inspection (Time: 10 minutes, Cost: $0)

Monthly Panel Check: 1. Visual inspection of electrical panel - Look for scorch marks or discoloration - Check for burning smell - Verify panel cover is secure - Note any tripped breakers

2. Test GFCI outlets monthly - Press TEST button - power should cut off - Press RESET button - power should restore - Replace any non-functioning GFCI outlets immediately

3. Check for overloaded circuits - Note frequently tripping breakers - Look for multiple extension cords - Check for warm outlet covers or switches

Lighting System Maintenance (Time: 15 minutes, Cost: $10-$30)

Monthly Lighting Tasks: 1. Replace burned-out bulbs promptly - Use correct wattage for fixtures - Consider LED upgrades (save $100+ annually) - Clean fixture globes and shades

2. Test outdoor lighting systems - Security lights and motion sensors - Landscape and pathway lighting - Check timers and photocells

Emergency Lighting Check: - Test flashlight batteries - Verify emergency lighting in key areas - Check backup power systems (if equipped)

Appliance and Electronics Safety (Time: 20 minutes, Cost: $0)

Monthly Appliance Inspection: 1. Check all power cords - Look for fraying, damage, or overheating - Ensure proper plugs (no missing ground prongs) - Verify cords aren't pinched or stretched

2. Test major appliances - Run dishwasher empty cycle - Check refrigerator coils for dust buildup - Test clothes dryer exhaust airflow - Verify washing machine water connections