The 10-minute home walk
Five photos that tell you the most about your home. Do them in any order, and skip any you like.
Water heater label
Its age and type tell you how much life is left and what it needs.
Photograph: The rating label on the side of the tank.
Furnace or air handler label
Its age, filter size and upkeep keep heating and cooling steady.
Photograph: The label inside the door or on the side of the unit.
Breaker panel
Knowing where it is and what's labeled saves time when a circuit trips.
Photograph: The panel with its door open, showing the breakers and labels.
Fridge label
The model tells you its age, plus the ice maker and water filter it needs.
Photograph: The label inside the door or on the wall of the fridge.
Main water shutoff
In a leak, it's the one thing you need to find fast.
Photograph: The valve or lever where the water line enters the house.