Diane Knight on Monday, July 6, 2009
My 50 gallon,1998,installed 2003, Rheem water heater leaked water
all over my basement and ruined all of the carpeting and sheetrock, etc.
They agree to only replace the water heater, but agreed to pay my deductible
when we spoke on the phone. I am a senior citizen and this was a major
loss. My homeoweners' policy is covering most but not all of this loss.
They should be picking up some of these costs. They want color pictures of
the plumber installing the unit and an inspection of the tank. Are they
crazy? Does anyone ever win with them? Diane Knight -
Castleton, New York
 Diane:
I am sorry to hear about the water damage in your home.
It is a real tough issue for both the owner and the manufacturer. It is a
given that the water heater will eventually fail and leak. For very little
money the plumber could install a safety catch pan with a discharge drain
line that would catch the leaking water and safely route it down a drain or
to the exterior of the home. Most homeowners are unaware and then surprised
when the unit fails and there is resulting water damage.
Ask you plumber what else can be done to protect your home when the new unit
fails. This might include the catch pan and/or water leak alarm.
Thanks for sharing.
Michael Leavitt -
Orem, Utah
Thanks. I will do that. This is very helpful information. Diane Knight |
