Why do Taiwanese households need "seasonal" water and electricity inspections?
Taiwan is humid and rainy. Fire Department statistics show that nearly 42% of residential fires are related to old wires or improper use of electricity. Establishing a seasonal inspection routine can help you avoid 90% of home disasters.
Spring (March-May): Key protection before the rainy season
Taipei has a continuous spring rain, so we should focus on moisture-proofing:
- Moisture-proof sockets: Check whether the sockets in the basement or first floor are rusted. It is recommended to install moisture-proof covers.
- Drainage test: Test your balcony drain before a heavy rain to make sure it can drain a bucket of water within 30 seconds.
- Air conditioning pre-inspection: Clean the filter before summer and confirm that the drain pipe is smooth.
Summer (June-August): Safety management of peak electricity consumption
During high temperature and high humidity seasons, electricity consumption increases sharply:
- Independent circuit: Ensure that high-power appliances such as air conditioners and electric cookers do not share circuits.
- Extension cord specifications: Do not connect extension cords in series. If power outages occur frequently in old communities, the wire specifications should be upgraded.
- Power cord inspection: Pay attention to whether the outer skin is hardened or has a peculiar smell, which is a warning sign of overheating.
Autumn (September-November): Repair period after typhoon
- Exterior wall leakage: Check window frames and exterior walls for new water damage to avoid worsening of cracks.
- Equipment maintenance: Clean the water heater, check the gas pipeline for cracks, and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Winter (December-February): Hidden risks at low temperatures
- Safety distance: Keep at least 1 meter between electric heaters and flammable materials.
- Ventilation and dehumidification: Run the exhaust fan for 20 minutes after bathing to slow down the aging of bathroom appliances.
- Anti-freezing measures: When a cold wave strikes, water pipes at high altitudes or on the top floors should be wrapped with insulation covers.
Establish a household "water and electricity health record"
Professional masters recommend recording the following information:
- Quarterly inspection dates and results.
- Equipment purchase date and warranty period.
- Contact information for trusted professional masters.
Investing half an hour in seasonal inspections can save tens of thousands of dollars in future repair costs. In areas with dense old houses in Taipei and New Taipei, water and electricity maintenance is a necessary investment. Remember, the most dangerous thing is not the known problems, but the hidden dangers you haven't discovered yet.
