The geyser and the geyser valve can be protected by arranging a maintenance programme with a plumber. This means timely replacement of the anode in the geyser and cleaning the valve.
If you have insulation in the ceiling, it is advisable to have the geyser and pipes insulated as well.
In the event of a geyser bursting and water coming through the ceiling, light fittings or down the walls, a four-point action plan is advisable:
· Switch off the geyser electrical isolator switch on the main distribution board.
· Turn off the water at the main meter box. Most homes have a stopcock fitted to the inlet side of the geyser.
· If possible, look through the trapdoor to see whether the geyser, the pressure reducing valve, or the pipes are leaking. This will help the plumber identify the problem.
· Contact your nearest M&F branch; you will be directed to an accredited plumbing contractor.
Should it be necessary to fit a replacement geyser it may also be advisable at the same time to fit a drip tray beneath the geyser. They are not costly and the tray's outlet pipe will carry away a lot of the water in the event of the geyser bursting.
Water damage to walls, carpets and furniture can be more costly than geyser replacement. The drip-tray precaution can therefore save expense down the line.