Going Places

TODAY'S HOMES ARE FILLED with expensive equipment to make your life easier and better. But while every appliance has a limited lifespan due to natural wear and tear, these sensitive machines can also experience problems: mechanical, electrical or pressure-system breakdowns. And chances are something is going to go wrong when you're least prepared. Follow these tips to help thwart problems before they happen. iSTOCK S U M M E R 2 0 1 5 | G O I N G P L A C E S 55 All Systems a Go? How to prevent home equipment breakdowns YOU'RE COVERED 1 Lawn Tractor An electrical short caused the main wiring harness between the ignition keyed switch and the main fuse to melt, rendering the mower unusable. Installation of a new wiring harness was required. Preventative tip: Avoid plowing leaves and other debris, which can ignite with hot exhaust or engine parts. 2 Media System A storm caused a power outage in the neighbourhood. Three flat-panel televisions in the home were on when the outage occurred. When power was restored, a voltage spike in the power lines damaged all three TV units beyond repair and all three required replacements. Preventative tip: Installing a surge protector can help prevent damage from voltage spikes. 3 Refrigerator The compressor failed, causing your refrigerator to overheat. Repair was required, as well as compensation for food spoilage. Preventative tip: Make sure the vents and coils are free from dust to ensure optimal performance. 4 Range/oven The igniter on a gas stove failed to light and required repair. Preventative tip: Clean the burners regularly to prevent moisture and dirt buildup. 5 Dishwasher A stray uten- sil jammed the sprayer arm, causing the motor to seize and burn out. Preventative tip: Properly secure all plates and utensils and clear debris from the sprayer arms to increase performance. 6 AC System A compressor inside the air-conditioning sys- tem failed and needed to be replaced. Preventative tip: Schedule a professional tune- up once a year to inspect the fan, compressor, coils and refrigerant lines. 7 PCs and Laptop A desktop computer, printer and laptop were plugged into the same electrical outlet. The circuit overloaded causing electrical damage to all the equipment. Repairs exceeded replacement costs, so replacement of all three was required. Preventative tip: Unplug one or more devices when not in use to reduce the risk of overloading. 8 Vacuum An excess of dirt and debris clogged the impeller blades, causing the motor to seize and need replacing. Preventative tip: To keep your system running ef ciently, clean the lter every time you empty the dust container. 9 Water Heater The operat- ing control on the water heater failed, creating excessive pres- sure that caused the tank to rupture and leak. Replacement was necessary. Since the home was temporarily unin- habitable, the family needed to stay at a hotel for two days. Preventative tip: Have your water heater regularly inspected and keep track of its purchase/installation dates. 10 Heating System/Boiler The boiler's safety relief valve did not open to allow boiling water and steam to escape, causing the boiler to crack. Replacement of the boiler was required. Preventative tip: Regular maintenance to remove soot build-up will maximize ef ciency and reduce energy costs. 11 Washer/Dryer A faulty balancer mechanism caused overheating, which damaged the washer's transmission and controls. Replacement was required. Preventative tip: Check the rubber hoses regularly for small bubbles or racks. If unnoticed, they can rupture and lead to water damage and ooding. Talk to a CAA Manitoba Insurance broker about home equipment break-down coverage and be protected from costly equipment repairs or replacements for just $29 a year.* *Price may vary; average yearly premium is $29. Available with home insurance policies from select insurance partners only. Home equipment breakdown coverage does not cover natural wear and tear on appliances or electronics, and does not cover the repair or replacement costs that may arise from lack of proper maintenance. GP Don't renew out of habit. Contact a CAA Manitoba Insurance broker for a free quote or request one at www.caamanitoba.com/ homequote. 3 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1

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