Frequently Asked Questions:

*How to keep A/C condensation drain line clear:  Use 1/2 cup chlorine bleach or Wagner Pro-Treat monthly in the condensate drain line to prevent algae from clogging the condensate drain line in the A/C system.  This can be done via a plastic pipe (about 1" diameter) in front of the furnace.  If the pipe has a stopper with wires coming out of the top lift off to access the opening.  Do not pull off by the wires.            

*How to Change Air Condition/Heating System Filter: Locate the air filter. Depending on the HVAC design, it can either be located in the blower door unit itself or located between the blower and the return air duct. You may need a screwdriver to help pry open the access panel or blower door.  Make sure unit is OFF before removing the filter.  Once removed locate the size for proper replacement (ex. 16x25x1.)  Replace the filter as directed, using the air flow directional on the filter.  This MUST be done monthly.       

*How to drain a lawn pump for your irrigation system:  To prevent your lawn pump from cracking in the winter due to freezing temperatures you will need to drain the water from the pump.  First make sure that your timer is in the OFF position.  Then locate the lawn pump and you will find either a wing nut or a drain screw (illustration below) on the front of the pump.  Open the hose bib on the top of the pump (if equipped) and remove the drain screw or wing nut.  Water should drain out immediately once the wing nut or screw is removed.  Once all the water has drained out put the screw or wing nut back in its original position and close the hose bib.   NEVER run the pump once it has been drained.  It is also highly recommended to insulate any exposed pipes during freezing temperatures.  If you have a jet pump or city water irrigation system you will need to insulate all exposed pumps, pipes, and back flows from the elements to prevent freezing.  To use the pump again you MUST fill the pump with water by attaching a hose to the hose bib on the pump and filling.  Once the pump filled close the hose bib, turn off the water, and detach the hose from the pump.  You will then turn the pump to the ON position to ensure that the pump has been re-primed.

*How to reset the garbage disposal:  Most disposals have a "RESET" button on the bottom or side of the unit, this acts as a "built in" circuit breaker. Depress this button to reset the unit.  If that does not work try the actual  circuit break in the electrical panel.

*How to un-jam a garbage disposal:  An "Allen" wrench will fit into the bottom of the disposal.  With the unit turned off or unplugged, insert the tool into the bottom of the disposal.  Move it clockwise and counter clockwise to loosen the jammed unit.  Once you believe the unit to be clear of the jam, plug the unit back in and turn it on to see if it rotates.  If this does not work it is a good possibility that the motor is locked up and the disposal will have to be replaced.

*Garbage Disposal Do and Do Not: 

Do:  Insert food slowly, Use cold water cold water for at least 20 seconds, Keep it clean.

Do Not:  Use hot water, grind fibrous or expandable foods, turn off the motor too quickly, wash coffee ground down the drain, or forget to use it.

*How to re-set an outlet with no power: First try resetting your circuit breaker.  If that is not effective, and a bathroom or kitchen outlet is affected, it could be a tripped GFI.  The GFI is a "mini" breaker located inside an outlet within 10 feet of water (ie: a sink).  This GFI "button" tends to be red with a rest/reset noted on it, located directly on the outlet cover.  This prevents electrocution by shutting off power immediately if electrical current comes in contact with water.  A GFI is most likely located in the bathroom, kitchen, garage, or at the circuit breaker panel box.  Look in these areas for the GFI and be sure the reset button is depressed.

*How to repair a garage door opener that will not operate properly:  If the garage door opener will not open or close properly be sure that all obstructions in the hinge and spring area.  Many openers have and "electric eye" or sensor that me become obstructed.  If so, remove the obstruction.  At times these sensors may become misaligned.  If the light on the sensor is blinking, it means the two sensors are not aligned and need to be adjusted to become aligned.  Once alignment is made, the lights will discontinue to "blink" and the obstructions will be eliminated.