When you first move into your new home, there will likely be many things you need to get used to or learn how to do. While this learning curve is steeper and more extensive for those living alone for the first time, you will still have many issues you need to figure out for anyone moving to a different accommodation type or new living arrangement.
This post will look at some of the things around your home that you need to know how to use to help you help yourself when problems arise.
Finding Your Stop Cock
Finding and using your stop cock or water stop valve is something everyone should know, whether you’re a homeowner or a renter. The stop cock is what turns the water off in your home, and it can present a few different forms. In more modern homes, it could be a blue switch situation in the kitchen close to the skin, like a plug socket. You simply turn the switch off or stop the water. In older homes, it could be located on the pipework under the sink or externally, and you will need to move the lever to block the water flow.
Electrical Control Panel
Your electrical control panel will likely be hidden away in a spot where it’s less obvious. In some homes, it could be in the garage; in others, by the front door, in a laundry room under the stairs, etc. You must locate the electrical control panel and know how to access it in an emergency. If you need to switch your electricity off for any reason, i.e. in a flood, or you have tripped a switch, this box will be your go, so knowing where it is vital. While in some cases, simply flicking a switch will perform the task you want it, turning certain or all electrics on and off, if your electricity goes off and none of the switches have tripped, then it’s time to call an electrician but locating the box is instrumental in ascertaining this.
Turning Your Pilot Light On
If you have gas heating, being able to turn your pilot light on or even off if required is essential. Your pilot light can go off for many reasons; your pressure might not be high enough, meaning you need a plumber to rectify it; your prepayment electricity meter might have turned off, and upon turning it on, you will need to reignite the pilot light. Regardless of your heating system, you need to know how to reignite pilot light on a water heater to ensure everything is working as it should.
Isolating The Gas Supply
Lastly, isolating the gas supply can literally be the difference between life and death. Knowing where your gas meter is and how to turn the gas off and on when needed can be extremely valuable information in the event of a gas-related emergency. If you smell a gas leak, for example, you need to be able to turn the gas off as soon as possible to avoid it igniting. Typically, a lever on your metre will stop the gas supply from entering your property, making it safer in case of a problem. If you have a gas emergency, turn the supply off, open windows and doors, do not turn anything on or use open flames, and contact your gas board for further assistance.
