Ozone Machines

Ozone Machines

We have been investigating water damage claims due to overflowing or leaking washing machines for a number years. An investigation was recently performed on a washing machine that was connected to an ozone machine. The use of ozone in the laundry process is not a new concept but, the machines are beginning to appear in residences connected to household washing machines. In the case that was investigated, the claim was that the ozone machine leaked or somehow caused the washing machine to leak water. The machine that was examined is shown in the photo below. Upon examination, it was determined that the machine injected ozone into the water as it flowed through the machine and into the washer. It was further determined that when the flow stopped, the production of ozone also stopped. Lastly, it was also discovered that the control of the water flow remained with the washing machine and had nothing to do with the ozone machine. Since there was no evidence of water leakage from the ozone machine, it was concluded that the source of water had to have been the washing machine and was also declared a defective product.

Ozone machine used with washing machine

Water Source Heat Pumps

Recently, we attended a seminar on Water Source Heat Pumps (WSHPs). It seems that the HVAC industry is pushing the installation of WSHPs, in commercial buildings, in order to help reduce green house gas emissions. In effect, WSHPs are taking the place of gas fired furnaces and boilers. Why should the insurance industry be concerned? As shown in the diagrams below, WSHPs use a water loop, much like a chilled water cooling system, to transfer heat to or from the space to be cooled or heated. The amount of piping used in these systems indicates that the volume of water can amount to hundreds of gallons, depending on the size of the building. If a leak occurs, the cost to repair can extend into the hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Similary, the cost to repair or replace property can extend into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Possible causes of water leakage can include faulty workmanship by the installing contractor and defective materials used during installation.

Water loop used in water source heat pump systems