Highway Robbery

Today started out just fine. But at 11:00 a.m. the sound of running, no – gushing water put threw me in a panic.  The water tank valve had blown and water was oozing all over the basement floor around the tank and on towards the area carpets and freezer. Unfortunately, my fertile imagination got the better of me. I could visualize  our total basement being flooded – and the cost of repairs, hassles, etc.. – well, it just wasn’t a happy thought.

Thankfully, my calm son kept me from losing my head. A frantic phone call to dear hubby helped me to locate the shut off valve. I was nervous about touching just ANY knob, since there are warning signs posted on the tank  about potential explosions, since there is a pilot light and gas lines.   We spent the next hour and a half sopping up and wringing out water with towels. Then on went the fan and we got back to our business. 

My adrenaline depleted, I was ready for a cat nap!

The plumber came by late this afternoon and replaced the $12 piece of equipment. Total cost: $127!!!! That was for travel and labour.  Ouch. Seems a bit crazy to us, but I guess we really shouldn’t complain too loudly. I’m actually quite thankful we live in an area where these problems can be remedied quickly. We were not looking forward to a cold shower tomorrow morning!