SMOKE DETECTORS
- Test smoke detectors each month by pressing their test buttons. If your alarms use regular batteries, change to fresh batteries at least 1x each year. A “chirping” sound means the batteries should be changed. Most smoke detectors use a 9-volt battery.
AIR FILTERS
- Air filters should be changed every three months or sooner if the unit runs more than average or if you have a pet. If you notice dust accumulating faster than usual, it could be time to switch the filter.
- Replacing the filter regularly keeps the flow of air open and the systems running efficiently.
NO HEAT OF AIR CONDITIONING
- If the unit won’t turn on: check the breaker by sliding the breaker hard left and then back hard right into its original state.
- Check the thermostat is in on the heat/ac position.
- Replace batteries if needed.
- Check the switch located near the furnace is in the on position.
- Change your air filter if there is little or no air coming from vents.
- Ensure all unit covers are securely closed.
- If the thermostat is on ac and warm air is coming out of the vents, set the thermostat to fan.
- If you have gas heat, ensure your gas service is active.
WATER LEAKING NEAR FURNACE
- Check the drain tube to make sure it is flowing toward the drain.
GARBAGE DISPOSAL
- Turn off the disposal immediately if it becomes clogged and will not spin.
- Unplug the garbage disposal and check the breaker. Slide the breaker hard left to off before attempting to remove any debris from the garbage disposal. Always wear safety gloves to protect your hands from the garbage disposal’s sharp blades.
- If there is no material in the disposal but the blades have become jammed, use the manual disposal tool or hex Allen wrench to dislodge the blades. Insert the tool from the bottom side of the disposal “under the sink” and rotate clockwise until the resistance frees up.
- Turn the breaker on, plug the unit in, rinse with water, and turn the electric switch to disposal on until the disposal empties.
- Make sure to run water before and after disposal is in use.
- If the disposal isn’t making a noise when switched on, check the breaker by sliding the breaker hard left and then back hard right into its active state or make sure the unit hasn't become unplugged under the sink.
ELECTRICAL
- If the lights or power is off in part of the home, check the breaker by sliding the breaker hard left and then back hard right into its active state. Unplug any device that could have caused the electricity to overload.
- If that doesn’t fix the issue, press the test and then the reset button on the GFCI outlet. These can typically be found in locations such as: the bathroom, kitchen, garage, and basement. There could be multiple GFCI outlets in the home. Start with the one nearest to the power outage.
- If there is no power throughout the home, contact the utility company.
WATER AND PLUMBING
- In case of an emergency and the water cannot be contained, turn the main water shut-off valve clockwise to shut off the water. This is normally near your water heater.
- If a toilet is running or going to overflow, use the valve behind the toilet to turn off the water.
- If a toilet is clogged, use a plunger to dislodge and clear the blockage. If the water level is too high to insert a plunger, simply wait for 15-20 minutes for the water level to drop enough to use the plunger.
- If little or no hot water, check the dial on the water heater to ensure it is not on the settings: “Vacation" or "Low”. Turn the dial to the right and set it to the manufactures recommended setting.
- If gas service was recently disrupted to the home, it may be necessary to relight the pilot light on the water heater.