homeowner’s handbook - caa-quebec · windows whether it’s of the sliding, hung, or casement...
TRANSCRIPT
Homeowner’s HandbookTake inventory of the equipment and systems in your house or condo to get a better idea of its condition, plan maintenance, and schedule repair work.
A GUIDE TO COMPLETE AT YOUR OWN PACEUse this handbook to take note of important information about your property, from the year your water heater was installed to the year the roof covering was replaced.
Why keeping all this information in one place is important:
• By tracking the history of your equipment and appliances, you’ll have a better idea of when to replace them.
• It makes following up with retailers, installers and manufacturers easier.
• You’ll be able to demonstrate the condition of your property when the time comes to sell it.
• You’ll have all relevant information handy when you renew your home insurance policy.
Save this guide to your computer: you can fill in the information electronically, or print a hard copy and complete it by hand. To do this, use the free Adobe Reader software application.
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Information about your home
Street address: ________________________________________________________________________________________________
City: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Province: ____________________________________________________ Postal Code: ________________________________
Year built: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Deed and cadastral number: ______________________________________________________________________________
Surveyor’s name: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Notary’s name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Certificate of location number: ___________________________________________________________________________
Date of certification: _________________________________________________________________________________________
Area of house or private portion of condo (e.g.: 24 × 40 ft. = 960 sq. ft.):
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Notes and other relevant information_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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FoundationEvery home’s stability depends on the condition of the foundation. So be vigilant. Inspect the foundation each spring and fall: look for cracks, signs of water infiltration or efflorescence (chalky, crystalline powder). To ensure the durability of your foundation, hire a specialist to find out what the problem is and make the necessary repairs. Also, make sure the grade slopes away from the walls, so that water runs away from the foundation.
FoundationType of foundation: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
Year laid: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Pointers to help determine the age of the foundation and whether a drain is present
FOUNDATIONBefore 1920:
• Stone (rubble) joined with mortar
After 1920:
• Concrete cast in place with temporary formwork
• Concrete blocks (for difficult-to-access areas)
Since 1986:
• Concrete cast in place with permanent formwork and insulation (not as common)
DRAINBefore 1950:
• Rarely present
1950 until late 1960s:
• Perforated concrete or clay pipe
Late 1960s to today:
• Perforated high-density polyethylene
Since 2006, for example in areas exposed to iron ochre:
• Perforated, smooth-walled rigid PVC, connected to vertical cleanouts
Insurance tip – Some insurers cover water damage for homes with foundations that are less than 50 years old. CAA-Quebec Home Insurance offers this coverage.
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Exterior claddingYour home’s exterior cladding must be a leak-proof barrier to wind and rain, and be resistant to both insects and small animals. It is therefore crucial that there be no breaches.
CladdingType of cladding: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Brands and models: __________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF CLADDING
Wood fibre: 25 years or more
Asbestos cement boards: 40 years or more
Brick or stone masonry: 75 years or more
Exterior coatings: 20 years or more
Steel: 50 years or more
Aluminum: 20 to 50 years
Vinyl: 50 years
Wood: 15 years or more, depending on maintenance
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Doors and windowsDoors and windows must be a defence against rain, cold, excessive heat, UV radiation, noise and even intruders. They must open and close easily and provide as much light and ventilation as possible. Their components, starting with the glass, must therefore be highly efficient.
EXTERIOR DOORSExterior doors must remain sturdy and leak-proof. Besides knobs and locks, the components most susceptible to wear and tear are the sill and weatherstripping.
Front doorType: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Other doorsTypes: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brands and models: __________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF OUTSIDE DOORS
Solid pine or cedar: 15 to 30 years
Insulated steel: 15 to 30 years
Composite (wood, fibreglass, aluminum): 20 to 40 years
Sliding patio door: 10 to 20 years
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WINDOWSWhether it’s of the sliding, hung, or casement type, every window in your house has weatherstripping and specific mechanisms that need maintenance. Sealed window glass can also fail in certain cases.
Main windowsType: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Type of frame material and glass: ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Other windowsType: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Type of frame material and glass: ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
TYPES OF WINDOW
Sliding Hung
Casement Awning
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF WINDOWS AND GLASS
Sealed glazing units: 10 to 20 years
Wood: 15 to 30 years
Wood covered in aluminum or PVC: 15 to 30 years
PVC: 15 to 30 years
Aluminum: 20 to 40 years
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GARAGE DOORA garage door consists of several panels pulled along metal rails by powerful springs. It includes several mechanical parts, safety devices as well as weatherstripping. Regular maintenance is a must to ensure your garage door does not become a danger to users.
Garage doorType: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Type of opener and power rating (HP): _________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesDoor manufacturer: __________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Door opener manufacturer: _______________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF DOORS AND OPENING MECHANISM
Insulated steel: 15 to 25 years
Insulated aluminum: 15 to 30 years
Cedar: 10 to 25 years
Automatic door opener: 8 to 12 years
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Balconies and decksThe typical useful life of a balcony or deck is 20 years. It varies depending on the materials used, construction quality, wear and tear, and exposure to the elements. You can extend that lifespan by making the right decisions and providing proper care.
BALCONIES AND DECKS WITH SLIGHTLY SPACED BOARDSThese balconies or decks allow water to run off between the boards quickly and are easy to repair. Parts of the sub-structure are exposed to the elements, however.
Currently installed balcony/deckType of boards: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand (or wood species) and model: ___________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand of initial sealant: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF OPEN-DECK MODELS
Pressure-treated lumber (pine, fir or spruce): 15 years or moreApply protective sealant every 2 or 3 years after initial drying.
Photo: Les Piliers de l’Estrie, a CAA-Quebec Approved Supplier
Cedar over pressure-treated lumber structure: 20 to 30 yearsProtect the cedar boards from fading using anti-UV sealant.
Photo: Patio et clôtures Beaulieu, a CAA-Quebec Approved Supplier
Synthetic boards over pressure-treated lumber structure: 40 years or moreRecycled plastic and composite products need no protective coatings.
Photo: Les Paysages Rodier, a CAA-Quebec Approved Supplier
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BALCONIES AND DECKS WITH SOLID DECKINGThese floors provide a smooth, watertight surface, but must incorporate a 2% slope to keep water from pooling. There must be proper ventilation underneath so that the sub-structure can dry quickly in case of water infiltration.
Currently installed balcony/deckType of panel: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF PANELLED DECK SURFACES
Douglas fir plywood with protective coating: 15 years or morePanels must be painted and the joints between them sealed.
Plywood with fibreglass coating: 20 years or moreNeeds no maintenance, but will deteriorate rapidly if water gets under the fibreglass coating. Panels with rounded edges are more durable than those with sharp edges.
Photo: Balcon idéal, a CAA-Quebec Approved Supplier
Fibre cement: 40 years or moreHeavy, but non-flammable and very resistant (requires no protection). Can be painted (paint product must be alkali-resistant).
Photo: Finex (manufacturer)
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RoofDay in day out, your roof protects your home from inclement weather, and helps safeguard the building’s integrity. The slightest fault requires immediate action. Keep a close eye on things!
SLOPED ROOFSince a sloped roof is visible from the ground, you can monitor its condition and take rapid action if ever you notice a problem. But the danger may also lurk within, so an attic inspection is sometimes necessary.
Current roofType of covering: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Roof vent manufacturer: ___________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
Insurance tip – Home insurance providers cover roofs based on their age. CAA-Quebec Home Insurance, for example, covers asphalt-shingle coverings less than 25 years old, and sheet-steel coverings less that are 50 years old or less.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF SLOPED-ROOF COVERINGS
Asphalt shingles: 15 to 25 years
Fibreglass-reinforced asphalt shingles: 20 to 40 years
Screwed sheet steel: 30 to 40 years
Granule-coated steel shingles: 30 to 50 years
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FLAT ROOFFlat or near-horizontal roofs require application of a seamless waterproof coating that directs rainwater into drains or other exit points.
Current roofType of covering: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Roof vent manufacturer: ___________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF FLAT-ROOF COVERINGS
Asphalt and gravel (multilayer): 20 to 55 years on depending on number of layers, quality of work and maintenance.This kind of coating, installed on roofs in Quebec for more than a century, consists of alternating layers of asphalt (bitumen) and felt, with a top layer of gravel.
SBS elastomer membrane (dual-layer): close to 30 yearsIn use since the 1980s, SBS modified asphalt membrane roof coatings are made up of long sheets covered with granules. The sheets are rolled onto a base layer and either heat-welded with a blowtorch or cold-applied using adhesive.
Photo: Toitures Mario Dicaire, a CAA-Quebec Approved Supplier
Single-ply membrane: 25 to 40 years, depending on manufacturerThis category includes thermoplastic (TPO, PVC) and thermosetting (EPDM) membranes. Experts say a 60 mil membrane (i.e., 1.5 mm thick) offers a longer lifespan.
Photo: Émile Lelièvre couvreur ferblantier, a CAA-Quebec Approved Supplier
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Mechanical ventilationAir quality is an important factor in the comfort and well-being of everyone living in your house. Neglecting it may lead to problems such as headaches, tiredness, difficulty concentrating, asthma, and skin or respiratory irritation.
Today’s houses use mechanical ventilation to ensure both comfort and energy efficiency. Without it, indoor air would quickly become overloaded with humidity and contaminants. Two types of equipment are needed: exhaust fans and exchangers.
EXHAUST FANSThese are devices that remove airborne contaminants at the source and vent them to the outside through ventilation ducts. Range hoods and bathroom fans are the most common examples. A house may also have an exhaust fan designed to vent underground gas, if radon has been detected in worrisome concentrations.
Range hoodManufacturer: __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Power (watts): __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
Bathroom fanManufacturer: __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Power (watts): __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
Radon exhaust fanManufacturer: __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Power (watts): __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF EXHAUST FANS
Range hood: 14 years
Bathroom fan: 10 years
Radon exhaust fan: 10 to 15 years
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AIR EXCHANGERVenting stale air to the outside isn’t enough; fresh air also needs to be supplied to the inside. This is the job of the air exchanger. This device may also filter and, depending on the design, heat the air before redistributing it to a central area of the house. The choice of appliance depends on the indoor humidity in winter. A heat recovery ventilator (HRV) is best for homes with excess moisture, while an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) is the right choice for a drier house.
Air exchangerType of exchanger: HRV ERV
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Power (watts): __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF AN AIR EXCHANGER15 to 20 years
Photo: Venmar
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Fire and electrical safetySafety devices allow you to react in a timely manner if a fire starts in the house or carbon monoxide (CO) is present. To avoid an incident, though, prevention is the best policy! Make sure your wood-fired heating appliance (if you have one) and your home’s electrical system are code-compliant, properly maintained, and properly used.
SAFETY DEVICESYou must have a smoke detector on every floor of the house, and CO detectors if your garage is connected to the house or you use any kind of combustion appliance. An extinguisher is the most effective accessory you can have if a fire starts somewhere in the house. Authorities recommend that you have one in the kitchen (well away from the stove), on the second floor, in the basement, as well as in the workshop and garage (if applicable).
In-service dates of safety devicesSmoke detectors: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Carbon monoxide detectors: ______________________________________________________________________________
Extinguishers: __________________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF DEVICES
Smoke detectors: Replace every 10 years.Change the batteries once a year or as needed.
Photo: Kidde
Carbon monoxide detectors: Replace every 5 to 7 years.Change the batteries once a year or as needed.
Photo: Kidde
Single-use portable extinguisher: Replace every 6 years (check pressure once a year).
Photo: Kidde
Refillable portable extinguisher: Check pressure regularly and refill as needed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Photo: Kidde
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AUXILIARY HEATINGWhether you have a factory-built stove or fireplace that burns wood, pellets or gas, the appliance and chimney must be installed in compliance with the manufacturer’s certification as well as the requirements of the National Building Code of Canada and your municipality’s bylaws. Make sure the chimney is cleaned periodically, and use the appliance reasonably.
Current heating applianceType of appliance and fuel: ________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Puissance (BTU/h): ___________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF APPLIANCES AND CHIMNEYS
• Factory-built stove/fireplace: 20 to 25 years
• Factory-built chimney: 25 to 30 years
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ELECTRICAL SYSTEMElectricity serves us in countless ways, but if uncontrolled, it presents a risk of electrocution or fire. That is why only a certified electrician is allowed to install or modify the electrical system in a house.
Electrical service panelType of panel: Fuse panel Breaker panelTypically installed prior to 1975, fuse panels (or “fuse boxes”) may be insufficient for today’s needs.
Brand: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Capacity: 60 amperes 100 amperes 200 amperes 400 amperesPanels rated at 60 or 100 amperes are generally insufficient for today’s needs.
Number of circuits: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
Type of wiring Copper (before 1965): Usually ungrounded. Copper (1965 to today): Usually grounded. Aluminum (1970 to 1975): Important to know before renovating.
GROUND-FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI)Bathroom: Yes NoOutdoor outlet: Yes NoRarely present if the house was built before the 1980s. There are new requirements for counter-top electrical outlets in the Quebec Electrical Code.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF WIRINGCopper wiring: 75 years or moreYou should have your home’s electrical system inspected by a certified electrician if this has never been done before, or if you are planning renovations.
Insurance tip – Insurers cover damage related to electrical service panels, but they have criteria regarding the age of the panel. CAA-Quebec Home Insurance, for example, covers panels that are less than 50 years old.
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Plumbing systemA plumbing system properly connected to the water supply and sewers does not require much in the way of regular maintenance. To make sure your system is operating properly, you need only make a few routine checks (of the main water entry tap, toilet valves, backwater valves, etc.).
LINES AND PIPESTypes of water supply lines
Copper: In use for more than 70 years in all types of buildings. Lifespan: 75 years or more
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX): On the market since 2000; often used in rural areas because it is resistant to hard water or acidic water from wells.
Good to know – “Water hammer” (banging noises and vibration when you shut off a tap quickly) can cause pipes to wear out prematurely. If you have water hammer issues, consider installing water hammer arrestors. As the name suggests, these are devices that reduce the impact of the water hammer effect.
Types of washing machine supply hoses Rubber: Replace within 10 years or if cracking appears. Stainless steel braided: Lasts 10 years or more. You should avoid cheaper models, however.
Types of sewer lines Cast iron: Used mainly before the 1960s. ABS plastic: Used since the 1960s.
Backwater valvesTo prevent sewer backup in the basement.
Single-family home: valve installed on the main drain pipe. Multiple-unit dwelling: valves installed on branch lines.
Insurance tip – Some insurers require you to have a backwater valve installed before they will cover you against water damage due to a sewer backup.
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WATER HEATERDomestic water heaters run on electricity, gas or heating oil. They are reliable appliances that you needn’t be overly concerned about. If your water heater shows signs of failing, however, you must react quickly.
Water heaterType of heater (energy source): ___________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Tank capacity: __________________________________________________________________________________________________
The rating plate on the tank provides this information.
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF WATER HEATERS
• Electric/heating oil: approx. 12 years
• Gas: approx. 15 years
Insurance tip – Damage caused by water heater will be covered if the heater complies with the insurer’s age criteria. CAA-Quebec Home Insurance, for example, covers water heaters up to 12 years old.
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Heating and air conditioningHome heating systems may be central, or consist of multiple independent units (space heaters) in separate rooms. Air conditioning systems follow the same principles.
CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMTwo main systems:
• Hydronic (hot-water) system with hot-water radiators powered by a circulating pump. Widespread until the 1960s.
• Forced-air system, which also offers air conditioning and purifying options.
Central heatingType of appliance: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
Energy source: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Power (BTU/h or kW): ________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF APPLIANCES
• Heating-oil- or gas-fired furnace: 18 to 25 years
• Electric heater: 20 to 25 years
• Boiler: 40 years
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OIL TANKThe heating oil storage tank and its connections must be perfectly sealed. Have them inspected as part of the annual maintenance of your heating system. Be alert for any lingering odour of heating oil.
Currently installed tankType of tank: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Tank capacity (L or gal): _____________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Since the early 1980s, the manufacturing date has been inscribed on tanks.
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF AN OIL TANK
• Single-wall steel tank, bottom fuel outlet• Indoor: 20 to 25 years• Outdoor: 15 years
• Double-wall steel or non-metallic tank• Indoor or outdoor: 50 years
Insurance tip – Insurance tip – Insurers will cover damage caused by a faulty oil tank, depending on its age. With CAA-Quebec Home Insurance, tanks located indoors are covered if they are less than 20 years old. Outdoor tanks are not covered.
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ELECTRIC BASEBOARD HEATERS AND CONVECTION HEATERSBaseboard and convection heaters contain no mechanical parts, so they are fairly low-maintenance. If your house is heated with such a system, you should also have an air exchanger installed to ensure proper ventilation.
Currently installed heatersType of heaters (baseboard, convection): _____________________________________________________________
Control: Mechanical thermostat Electronic thermostatElectronic control provides greater comfort and energy efficiency.
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF EQUIPMENTElectric baseboard heaters and convection heaters: 25 years or more
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HEAT PUMPS AND AIR CONDITIONERSThree main types:
• Central heat pumps and air conditioners: These devices connect to an existing forced-air central heating system and its ducting.
• Room heat pumps and air conditioners (split-system): These devices are ductless, and suitable for open spaces equipped with electric baseboard heaters.
• Geothermal (or “ground source”) heat pump: Uses earth energy to heat a home in winter and cool it in summer.
Currently installed systemType of device: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brand and model: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Power (BTU/h): _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Initial cost (or estimated replacement cost): ________________________________________________________
Installation date (or estimated age): ____________________________________________________________________
Manufacturers/installers/warrantiesManufacturer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Installer: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Contact info: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Warranties provided: ________________________________________________________________________________________
AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF DEVICES
• Central and room heat pumps and air conditioners: 10 to 15 years
• Geothermal heat pump: 15 to 20 years
• Underground loop: 50 years and up
Photo : Le Prohon, a CAA-Quebec approved supplier
22QUESTIONS? CALL CAA-QUEBEC’S RESIDENTIAL ADVISORS 1 888 627-6666