Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1514775
| LIFE IN SOLERA | FEBRUARY 2024 | 3 FROM THE BOARD By George Vawter When I ran for the Board this past year, I had two objectives: 1) To add technical expertise for our aging infrastructure; and 2) to help communicate to our membership with my videos. During our monthly BOD meetings, you will hear the term "Reserves" when addressing certain HOA maintenance/repairs. We, as Board Members, work diligently with Management to understand and address the necessary repairs needed for Solera. We do this by making informed decisions that will save money and protect our property values. Reserves are the key part of this equation. As a homeowner, you need to plan for the necessary maintenance and repairs to protect your home and property value. Having lived here for the past 12 years, I have put together a short list of the common issues and observations. I want to start by prioritizing safety: Common Safety Issues: 1. Smoke detectors must be replaced every 10 years or sooner, not just the batteries! 2. Keep a fire extinguisher handy. 3. Faded address sign/non-working light bulbs need to be addressed (no pun intended). This is very important for First Responders especially at night! The original Leviton Emergency Flasher front light switch is no longer available. An alternate is available for about $50. 4. Newer style garage door opener with battery allows operation during a power failure. 5. Going out of town/vacation – turn off main water valve on side of house. This can prevent a flood in your home during your absence. 6. Ceiling light out, don't take a chance with a ladder. Purchase a light bulb changer kit with a 10' pole. (Lowes/Do It Best Hardware/ Amazon) 7. Doorbell not working – usually needs a new switch or you can upgrade to a Ring Doorbell Camera. Other Notable Issues, Concerns or Failures: 1. Original air conditioner evaporator rusts thru the attic floor damaging living room ceiling. 2. GFIs need resetting if certain electrical outlets lose power. 3. Main water pressure regulator (located outside) can fail or leak and needs replacement. 4. Rear slider door on Princess and Trillion models difficult to open, needs service/rollers? 5. Front tree roots can lift driveway and/or walkway. 6. Paint for interior doors/casings and base is Frazee 001 white. 7. "Aircycler" unit in the furnace for hourly fresh air can be turned down or off . 8. Set irrigation timer and adjust sprinkler heads so you are not watering the street! 9. Furnace will not come on – a purge blower motor in furnace can fail. 10. Bathroom sink faucet handles come loose. 11. Fireplace will not start up or continues to malfunction. 12. Check your roof for water leaks. More reports recently noted. 13. Water heater failures are becoming a well-known issue, replace if necessary. 14. Faded doors and shutters need repainting when noted by the DRC or sooner. One final note, I have observed power failures/power glitches that can trigger the Emergency Flasher front light to come on and will need to be reset with the switch. Hope all of this information is useful.