Homeowner`s Tip Guide - Old Republic Home Protection
Contents
1. Replace the flapper The toilet leaks water onto the floor Septic Tank There is a leak in the supply line There is a leak between the tank and bowl Check the supply line for leaks Also ensure the supply tube nut coupling nut is tightened Replace the gasket between the tank and bowl Septic tanks should be inspected and pumped every three to five years to help prevent costly replacement of the leach field Don t deposit coffee grounds cooking fats disposable diapers facial tissues cigarette butts and other Helpful Hints non decomposable materials into the house sewer These materials will plug the system Use toilet tissue that breaks up easily when wet Put a hand full of toilet tissue in a jar half full of water Shake the jar and if the tissue breaks up easily the product is suitable for the septic tank Using too much soap or detergent when doing laundry can cause problems with the septic system If there are lots of suds in your laundry tub when the washer discharges cut back on the amount of detergent for the next similar load Problem Possible Cause Solution The waste lines are backing up throughout the house The bathroom sink is clogged Water Heater Helpful Hint Problem The septic tank is full There is a stoppage in the bathroom branch line Possible Cause After lifting the lid to confirm the tank is full have the tank pumped Using either a plunger or snak2. 4 Keep stairs doorways and hallways free from obstructions In dense smoke it may be difficult to see items blocking an escape route In the Event of a Small Contained Fire If you discover a small fire that is still contained to its source you can do the following e Cooking pan fire Cover a small oil or grease fire in a cooking pan with a lid to smother the flames and remove the pan from heat Do not use water on an oil or grease fire Water will spread the flames Page 4 Turn off the kitchen exhaust fan The fan can suck fire through the fan and ignite the outside of your home e Oven fire Turn off the oven and allow the fire to burn itself out Do not open the oven door fresh air will feed the fire and cause it to continue to burn e Electrical fire If you discover an electrical fire early use a multipurpose fire extinguisher Do not use water on an electrical fire Water and electricity can be fatal Fire Extinguisher Cooking is a leading cause of fire If a fire breaks out in the kitchen you will want an extinguisher close at hand If there is a fire in another part of the home you will know that an extinguisher can be found in the kitchen Read the operating instructions on the side of the extinguisher now so that you will know how to use it if needed Finally have the extinguisher serviced at the time recommended by the manufacturer The manufacturer s service recom
3. Flush the tank to remove the sediment The water heater makes unusual noises Scale has formed on the heating elements electric units only Rust or sediment has accumulated in the tank Remove the heating elements Soak them in vinegar and gently remove the scale Flush the tank to remove the sediment Sediment or rust colored water is coming though the faucets Garbage Disposal Scale has formed on the heating elements electric units only Remove the heating elements Soak them in vinegar and gently remove the scale Always run cool water during use and for at least two minutes after you finish to help prevent stoppages Avoid putting potato and carrot peels or stringy vegetables down the disposal Once a week grind several lemon or orange rinds in your disposal to help eliminate odors Never put your hand in the disposal to clear a jam Turn off power to the unit and use tongs or pliers to clear the debris Helpful Hints Always use cold water in your disposal to avoid liquefying the grease Problem Possible Cause Solution The motor will not work or turn on There is no power to the unit The on off switch may be defective The overload protector reset switch on the unit has tripped Ensure the unit is plugged in Check for a blown fuse and reset Check the stopper switch batch feed model or the wall switch continuous feed model Repair or replace as needed Ensure the un
4. d Plumbing Fixtures Faucets and Pipes Problem Possible Cause Solution The aerator on the faucet is broken or has a deteriorating finish Age and mineral deposits have caused damage Replace the aerator The showerhead and faucet are not allowing the water to flow smoothly and quickly Mineral deposits on the fixtures Put one cup of vinegar in a plastic bag and place it over the showerhead or fixture Secure it in place with a twist tie and let stand overnight In the morning remove the bag and the mineral deposits should come off by wiping with a damp cloth A new kitchen faucet drips after shut off There is air left in the lines from installation If there is NOT a handspray turn the handle off and on approximately 15 20 times If there IS a handspray hold it in the sink and turn the handle off and on very quickly 15 20 times This will remove the air left in your supply lines The sink drain takes longer than usual to drain Toilets There may be a build up of soap scum hair and grease in the pipes Try using drain maintenance products that can be purchased at your local hardware store These products are designed to remove the usual buildup of soap scum grease and hair Helpful Hint e Flush only toilet paper down a toilet and avoid all other paper products Problem Possible Cause Solution Water is running in the toilet The toilet may be leaking internally
5. Cause Solution The lights or outlets do not work There is no power to the outlet or fixture The outlet or switch is defective Be sure all switches at the fuse box are in the ON position and no fuses have blown Unplug all appliances and reset the breaker Reset the GFI outlet if it has been tripped Replace the outlet or switch There is no power to the entire house or half of the house Pool Spa Equipment There is a tripped circuit breaker e Maintain proper water level at all times Omma e Keep the pool chemically balanced Most pool supply stores will test a sample of your pool water for free e Consult your pool and spa company for specific suggestions on maintaining your particular system Problem Possible Cause Reset the circuit breaker and replace any fuses as necessary Solution The pump has no power The motor is not receiving power The water level is too low and the prime has been lost Reset the fuse box or circuit breaker Be sure the timer is set correctly Oil the motor as necessary Add water to the pool spa The pump will not prime The valves are not in the correct position There are leaks in the suction line Correct the valve position Locate and repair the leaks The heater is not working The pilot is not lit The gas valve is on the pilot setting gas heater The unit is not receiving gas There is no power to the unit Press
6. can avoid repair to and replacement of your entire roof when you stop a leak by re caulking a dried out flashing seam Gutters and Downspouts Gutters and downspouts collect water from the roof and carry it away from the house This prevents e Topsoil erosion around concrete footings e Basement flooding e Siding and woodwork decay e Paint damage e Wall damage e Serious foundation problems Gutters and downspouts that leak or that are clogged with debris cannot perform their vital task Gutters collect leaves sticks seed pods mineral granules from roofing products and other debris They should be cleaned e In the fall after most of the leaves have fallen e In the spring after the trees have bloomed If you have low gutters and know how to safely use extension ladders you may feel comfortable performing this task yourself If you have a multi story home don t like working from heights or don t like handling extension ladders you may want to hire a contractor to clean your gutters Page 6 HOME EXTERIOR Your home is protected from the sun wind and rain by an exterior skin of wooden masonry or manufactured siding This siding should last the life of your home if properly maintained However even the most durable sidings can fail if the homeowner does not follow through with a regular maintenance program Exterior Cleaning Cleaning your home s exterior surfaces once or twice a year will improve it s appea
7. can control condensation Crawl Space Moisture Soil under a crawl space can cause beams floor joist sub floors and even roof sheathing to decay Inspect all crawl spaces with a flashlight 1 If it is necessary to go into the crawl space to view the entire area wear a face mask You can stir up insecticides and other chemicals that settled on the ground 2 Look for a moisture barrier a All bare soil should be covered with a moisture barrier of 6 mil polyethylene plastic b The plastic should go up the foundation walls to a point higher than the outside grade line and be weighted down with bricks gravel or other non organic material 3 Look for standing water There should never be standing water under your home If there is consult a professional contractor for drainage options 4 Inspect the foundation vents a Foundation vents help control moisture in the crawl space b Make sure the vents are open and not blocked by soil leaves or other debris an automatic return switch so that the doors will reverse automatically if they meet an obstacle 1 Test your garage door openers by blocking the door with your hands while the door is closing If the door does not reverse when it encounters your hands adjust the automatic reverse adjustment screws 2 Height adjustment nuts control how far the doors open and close If your doors do not open or close properly you can reset the adjustment nuts 3 If the driv
8. connections Inspect all parts and replace as necessary The drum is stuck though the motor still runs The drum is blocked The drive belt is broken The support wheel or idler wheel assembly is broken Free the drum from any obstructions Replace the drive belt Inspect all parts and replace as necessary The clothes don t dry though the drum turns There is a clog in the lint trap or exhaust vent The safety thermostat heating element or timer is defective Page 15 Clear the trap and vent Inspect all parts and replace as necessary Clothes Dryer con t Problem Possible Cause Solution The load takes a long time to dry There is a clog in the lint trap or exhaust vent The dryer is overloaded The clothes are too wet The fan is loose The door gasket is damaged Clear the trap and vent Remove some items and dry the load again Ensure the spin cycle is completed in the washer and remove some clothes to dry the load again Check the fan and tighten if necessary Replace the door gasket The unit does not stop drying at the end of the cycle The timer is defective Replace the timer The dryer is making a squeaking noise Heating System Helpful Hints Loose cabinet screws may cause squeaks Foreign objects are causing squeaks e Clean and or replace filters once a month e One month before the start of heating season have maintenance
9. has tripped The house inlet valve may not be open Ensure unit is plugged in Reset the fuse box or circuit breaker Distribute the clothes evenly in the machine and be sure the lid is completely closed Open the valve The machine does not fill with water There is no water supply The filters are clogged There is a kink in one of the water hoses The timer is not set The control button for the water is not pushed in all the way Make sure the water valve is turned on Clean the inlet hose filters Straighten all water hoses Slightly turn the timer ensuring all buttons are set correctly Push in the button to make sure it is fully depressed The unit is not draining The drain hose is kinked The position of the drain hose is too high The lid is not closed completely Straighten the drain hose Do not position drain hoses higher than 4 feet above the floor The washer drains and spins at the same time so the lid must be down The unit fills with water but does not run The lid safety switch is tripped There is too much laundry in the tub The timer is defective Make sure the lid is firmly attached and closed Test the switch Take some items out and give the machine 15 minutes to reset the cycle Replace the timer The motor runs but the unit does not agitate or spin The drive belt is loose or broken Tighten or replace the drive belt as necessary The water is no
10. in use Never use metal or metal trimmed utensils and serving pieces in the microwave cavity Be sure the rack is firmly in place and not upside down Helpful Hints e Before use check that the bag is in the proper position and that the retainer ring and clips are securely in place Problem Possible Cause Solution The compactor will not turn on Power is not reaching the unit The safety lock is not on The drawer is open Ensure the unit is plugged in Check for a blown fuse or tripped breaker and reset Turn on the safety lock Be sure the door is shut securely and remove anything that keeps it from closing The load does not compact completely The ram has seized up The chain drive gears or pulley are loose or broken Page 13 Oil the ram screws or replace the screws if they are stripped Check the chain and tighten or replace if necessary Trash Compactor con t Problem Possible Cause Solution A breaker trips or a fuse blows during the compactor s cycle There are too many appliances on one circuit There is a short in the cord plug or switch The unit may need its own circuit Be sure the cord plug and switch work The compactor makes loud noises The drive chain is loose The unit needs to be greased There are loose parts Tighten the drive chain Oil the unit Tighten all screw and bolts The compactor door is stuck shut The
11. large and heavy cooking pans e Regularly remove any grease or food build up around the burners and connections e If you have a self clean oven DO NOT use any other method to clean Problem Possible Cause Solution The range will not turn on Power is not reaching the unit Ensure the unit is plugged in Check for a blown fuse and reset One of the burners does not turn on A burner does not cook well If the unit has an electronic control it may need to be reset The element is not properly plugged in The burner is defective Oven is in the self clean cycle The wiring terminal block or switch is defective The cooking pan is the wrong size The element is damaged If there is power to the unit and it has an electronic control disconnect the power for 15 30 minutes and re try Unplug the burner and reinstall to a fully seated position to ensure it is securely plugged in Remove the burner and plug it into another burner receptacle of the same size Turn on that element If it still does not work replace the element This cycle requires a high amount of power The stove may not be able to work at the same time as the self clean cycle Check each part and replace if necessary Use flat bottomed pans that just cover the element Replace the element The timer is not working The timer has not been set correctly The timer fuse has blown There are loose connections The time
12. performed on your heating system Check all exposed screws and make sure they are tight Check for foreign objects in the drum and below the lint filter Open window shades and awnings to increase direct sunlight entering your home and lower heating costs Problem Possible Cause Solution There is no heat There is no power to the unit The blower belt is broken Ensure unit is plugged in Check for a blown fuse and reset Replace the belt The rooms are not warm enough The filter is dirty The registers are dirty There are air leaks in the ducts The ducts are blocked A register is closed The duct damper is in an incorrect position The blower belt is loose Replace the filter Clean and vacuum the registers and ensure they are open Seal the leaks with duct tape Remove any objects that are blocking the duct Open all registers Adjust the dampers to correct Tighten the blower belt Soot gathers in the house The filter is dirty The ducts are dirty Replace the filter Have the ducts professionally cleaned The blower makes unusual noises Air Conditioning System The pulley is loose A belt is worn out or the tension is too tight The blower bearings need oil e Clean and or replace the filters once a month e Keep the condensing unit free of debris by vacuuming dust and lint from the registers regularly Helpful Hints e One month before air conditio
13. ram stalled Be sure the unit is closed and plugged into the outlet If necessary inspect for a broken chain belt pulley or drive screw The compactor will not stop running The top limit switch is malfunctioning There is a defect in the start stop switch Unplug the unit and be sure the switch works Inspect and replace the switch as necessary Trash spills out of the compactor The bag is not installed properly Be sure the bag and clips are secure The compactor has an unusual odor Refrigerator amp Freezer The deodorant is empty The aerosol nozzle on the deodorant is clogged Clean the interior shelves shell and gaskets quarterly Helpful Hints Clean the coils on the back or underneath annually e Remove odors from your fridge by placing a cotton ball soaked in vanilla extract a cup Replace the deodorant Clear the clog using a thin wire or by running the nozzle under warm water of baking soda or a slice of lemon in the fridge at all times Problem No power and or motor is not turning on interior light s not working Possible Cause There is no power at the outlet or the unit has come unplugged Solution Check to see if the unit is still plugged in If it is plugged in use a hair dryer or radio to test the outlet to be sure the outlet is working Check for a blown fuse and reset If it continues to blow the fuse the unit may need its own designated circu
14. should be located on the pipe leading into the gas meter Turn the valve a quarter turn in either direction with an adjustable end or crescent wrench The gas is off when the valve is perpendicular to the pipe If the gas leak is outside your home keep away from the leak area and away from your house Do not attempt to shut off the gas supply Your utility company will turn off the gas Once your gas is off wait for the local gas company to restore your service FIRE PRECAUTIONS Precautions and plans made today can prevent a fire related tragedy tomorrow Smoke detectors are your first line of defense if a fire breaks out at night Test your detectors on the first day of each month Replace the batteries in the spring and fall when you change your clocks Plan of Escape The first step during a fire is to get everyone out of the house Planning your escape routes now can prevent needless loss of life during a fire 1 With your family map out escape routes from each room in your home Pay particular attention to escape routes from bedrooms 2 Agree on a central area outside your house to meet after evacuation so that everyone can be accounted for This may be a neighbor s front door or a neighborhood landmark The meeting place should be a place that children or injured people can reach without undue difficulty and yet still be safe from danger 3 Have safety ladders near windows when ladders are necessary
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16. Tip Guide Compliments of ae OLD REPUBLIC Fj HOME PROTECTION Ky Were People Helping People OLD REPUBLIC Home Protection When you buy your car you take it in for regular maintenance oil changes and tune ups Unfortunately homes do not have a service station that will take care of regular maintenance and upkeep In most cases your home did not come with an Owner s Manual to tell you what needs to be done when it needs to be done and how to do it Old Republic Home Protection takes pride in being People Helping People We have compiled an Owner s Manual designed to help you with regular home related topics such as e How to develop an annual maintenance schedule for many of your home s systems and appliances e Maintenance information which will help you avoid bigger problems by taking care of them when they are small e How to trouble shoot malfunctions on your own so you can resolve those malfunctions without the need for a service person or the expense of a home protection plan service fee TABLE OF CONTENTS Monthly Maintenance Schedule sesse 1 Annual Semi Annual Maintenance Schedule 1 Plumbing EMergencies sosescnescuosannaciioirii 2 Electrical Emergencies osioita 3 Gas Leaks ndiri aara aa 3 Fire Precaution S eesse erao a 4 ROOF MainteNa MCE a2ece seezcecchs aa a tessa cbciasnce 4 ROOF IMS DOCU OM sxx cescecesscecasee a 4 Rome EXC NON ssrdsn E
17. acceptable for a disposal for example potato and carrot peels or stringy vegetables Garbage Disposal con t Problem Possible Cause Solution The disposal runs slowly or drains slowly There is not enough water The drain line is clogged The disposal is not grinding finely enough When using the disposal run more cold water Run hot water to clear any clogged grease Remove the drainpipe if it needs to be unclogged NOTE Do not use harsh chemicals to clear the drain Replace any dull or damaged parts The disposal has a foul odor Dishwasher Food has been sitting in the disposal too long before being disposed To eliminate the odor pour baking soda down the drain or grind up a citrus rind e Avoid liquid soap which can over sud and cause water to drip from the door e Regularly clean debris from the spray arms e If your dishwasher is stained fill the detergent cup with powdered orange or lemon drink and let the washer Helpful Hints run through its normal cycle e Add a rinse agent to cut down on film When loading dishes be sure the dishes do not block and or damage the spray arm and face the dishes toward the spray for the best cleaning results Problem Possible Cause Solution The dishwasher will not turn on The door is not locked latched The unit is plugged into the wrong receptacle The timer or selector button is in the wrong position Power is not rea
18. ace the door hinges Stop using liquid soap and switch to powder soap The dishwasher is making unusual noises The spray arm is hitting the dishes The water intake valve is damaged causing a knocking sound when the unit fills There is not enough water in the unit Page 11 Adjust the dishes to ensure they do not obstruct the spray arms Replace the water intake valve Avoid using other faucets while the dishwasher is running Dishwasher con t Problem Possible Cause Solution The dishwasher is not draining and leaves standing water in the tub Note One to two cups of remaining water are normal There is a kink or clog in the drain hose There is a clog in the air gap small cap located on the countertop or sink deck The pump is blocked The kitchen sink drain is clogged Clear the drain hose by disconnecting and blowing through it Take the air gap cover off and remove any debris from the air gap Check the pump area in the rear of the tub for paper or large objects Since the dishwasher drains into the kitchen sink and often the disposal run the disposal to clear any food and unclog the drain if necessary Water is leaking out of the air gap Electric Cooktop Range Oven Helpful Hints There is a clog in the hose that runs from the air gap to the disposal Detach the line and remove any clogs Replace the hose e To avoid damaging the burners do not use extra
19. ag or slope improperly Page 5 8 Inspect gutter seams corner joints and downspout joints for proper fit These joints should be repaired or sealed with caulk if they allow water to leak 9 Inspect downspouts Check for Disconnected downspouts Corrosion Clogged sections Improper connections Loose straps mo aa oe D Missing sections 10 Make sure the downspouts direct water away from your home Inspecting from the Outside sloped or pitched roofs 1 Step away from your home until you are able to see all exposed sections of your roof 2 Use binoculars to visually inspect all portions of your roof Binoculars allow you to get a close up view of your roof without climbing up and moving around on a sloped surface 3 Check the roof structure first by looking at the lines of the ridge and rafters a The ridge line should be perfectly horizontal b Inspect the line of the rafters by looking along the plane of each roof section The plane should be straight c If either the ridge line or the plane of a roof section sags call a professional contractor You may have a structural problem 4 Inspect the roof s surface Look for the signs of wear and damage Inspecting from the Outside flat roofs 1 Flat roofs are not visible from the ground If you have a flat roof you must inspect it from the roof itself a If your roof is higher than a single story look for a way to access the roof from a
20. ar An easy way to remember this is to change the batteries when the time changes It s also a good idea to vacuum out the smoke detectors when you change the batteries so they stay clean and operate at peak efficiency Exterior e Clean and inspect gutters and downspouts after trees have seeded repair as needed e Hose off house exterior scrub off any mildew e Clean gaps between deck boards under decks and porches and treat for fungus and mildew as needed e Check paint siding or masonry for deterioration Deteriorated paint can lead to widespread rot One topcoat of paint should last four or five years but two coats can last twice that long e Inspect weather stripping around windows and doors replace as needed e Inspect window screens repair as needed e Clean out basement window wells e Clean sliding door tracks and lubricate with white lithium compound e Inspect basement crawl space and attic for signs of pests such as termites carpenter ants wasps and hornets ANNUALLY OR SEMI ANNUALLY e SUMMER Plumbing e Check the flapper on your toilets at least once a year If it is an older one you may want to replace it since it could allow water through causing your toilet to run continuously Heating and Cooling e Examine windows re glaze as needed e Ensure all east west and south facing windows are shaded to decrease cooling costs Garage Door e Clean and lubricate garage door tracks rollers springs and hinge
21. ated in a laundry room or some other place where there could be water on the floor use rubber gloves when shutting off the main disconnect Keep a pair of rubber gloves near the circuit panel at all times for this purpose Be sure everyone in your household knows where the circuit breaker panel is located and can shut off the power Power Outage If the power goes out suddenly in your home determine whether the outage affects just your home or the entire neighborhood If it is a neighborhood outage notify your electric utility company If the electrical outage affects your home only check for and reset tripped circuit breakers If a breaker immediately trips again call a professional electrician to test your electrical system Turn off or disconnect all motor driven and electronic appliances to avoid possible damage from either inadequate power or a sudden electrical surge when power is restored The furnace blower motor can be turned off by turning off the circuit breaker for the furnace Motors for dishwashers clothes washers clothes dryers garbage disposals range fans sump pumps refrigerators and other appliances can be disconnected by turning off or unplugging the appliance Computers televisions video recorders stereos and other electronic equipment should also be turned off Turn on a radio and a lamp to alert you when service is restored After power has been restored it should be safe to turn on all appliance
22. ching the unit The door switch is malfunctioning The timer is defective Be sure the door is securely shut and latched If the unit is plugged into a receptacle shared with the disposal make sure the plugs are not reversed Adjust timer and or selector buttons to the correct positions Ensure the unit is plugged in and reset the breaker if necessary Inspect the door switch for damage Repair or replace as needed Replace the timer The dishwasher does not fill with water Water continually runs The water valve is not turned on The water filter is clogged The overflow switch is malfunctioning The timer is defective The water intake valve is stuck The overflow switch is malfunctioning The timer is defective Make sure the water valve is in the ON position it may be located under the sink under the floor in the basement or in a closet behind the wall If the unit has one clean the water intake valve filter Check the switch The unit will not fill if the switch sticks in the FILL position Replace the timer Inspect the valve and make sure it is shut Check the switch The unit will not fill if the switch sticks in the EMPTY position Replace the timer The dishes are still dirty at the end of the wash The water is not hot enough Heavy debris and food were not removed from the dishes prior to loading The dishes are not loaded properly The detergent is ol
23. crete and mortar joints can cause cracks Most cracks are normal and are structurally insignificant b Cracks wider than 1 16 inch should be investigated possibly with the assistance of an engineer or qualified inspector to determine whether the cracks are a cause for concern 2 Check the slope of the ground around your foundation a The ground should slope away from your home so rain water will flow away from not toward the foundation b Back filled soil along the house can settle over time This can create a depression that will collect water near the foundation Correct any depressions by raising the grade with topsoil not sand or gravel so that the ground slopes 2 inches per horizontal foot for 8 to 10 feet from the foundation 3 Settling along the foundation can also cause concrete patios and walkways to break and direct water towards your home A contractor can add a new layer of concrete to reverse the slope Moisture You should watch for e Condensation e Basement leaks e Crawl space moisture These problems can cause wood structural members to decay Condensation 1 Condensation is caused when warm moist air comes in contact with a colder surface such as a window exposed pipe or bare concrete basement wall It can look as if the window pipe or wall is leaking Condensation can be worse in new homes as water from concrete walls evaporate as part of the normal curing process 2 Proper ventilation
24. d The spray arms are blocked Run the water in the kitchen sink until it gets hot Then turn on the dishwasher This will ensure that it fills up with hot water Verify that the water is between 140 F and 150 F Pre rinse dishes before loading into the dishwasher Dishes should be faced towards the water spray and should not be touching each other Replace with new detergent Be sure nothing is blocking the spray arms The soap dispenser will not open There is soap build up in the soap cup The soap dispenser lid is blocked Remove hardened detergent from the soap cup and clean with vinegar Remove any obstructions blocking the lid The dishes are wet There are mineral deposits on the heating element The heating element wire is loose The heating element has burned out The timer is defective Wash the element gently with vinegar Secure all electrical connections around the heating element Replace the heating element Replace the timer The dishwasher is leaking water The door seal is damaged The overflow switch is defective The heating element nuts are loose The hose clamps are loose The door hinges are broken You are using liquid soap Replace the door seal Check for damage to the switch and replace if necessary Check for loose nuts that attach the tub to the element and tighten them Check for loose hoses and tighten clamps you may need to move the dishwasher Repl
25. door window access panel or other interior access b If the roof is higher than one story and does not have interior access then it is best to have the roof inspected by a professional roofing contractor 2 Look for puddles of water Although some people used to believe standing water on a flat roof would help keep the home cool during the summer the disadvantages far outweigh any cooling benefits a Insects plants and fungi can breed and grow in the water b Roots from growing plants can puncture your roofing material c During the winter freezing water can cause serious roof damage d If you see standing water or signs of past water puddles discuss this matter with a professional roofing contractor 3 Your flat roof should drain along the roof edges and into downspouts or through drains located in the roof itself 4 If your roof has one or more interior drains inspect the drains to make sure they flow freely and are not clogged with debris Roof Flashing Flashing is the sheet metal or other durable material that protects roof joints and other protrusions from water penetration You will find flashing in the following locations e Roof valleys e Roof and plumbing vents e Around chimneys e Along eaves e Anywhere else water can seep through open joints into the roof sheathing The flashing s edges are sometimes sealed with caulk or roof cement Flashing is key to keeping your roof watertight You
26. e clear the stoppage e Flush out the water heater twice a year to keep sediment from accumulating at the bottom of the tank Be sure to turn off the power to the unit first Solution There is no hot water The pilot light gas unit is not lit The pilot light gas unit will not stay lit The gas is not coming out gas unit There is a malfunction in the thermocouple Page 9 Relight the pilot Call the gas company if assistance is needed Turn the gas valves on and be sure the thermocouple is near the pilot flame and connected to the gas control Call the gas company if assistance is needed Check the gas shutoff valve for the water heater and the house to make sure they are open Call the gas company if assistance is needed Replace the thermocouple Water Heater con t Problem Possible Cause Solution There is no hot water The water heater has no power Electric Unit The safety thermostat has stopped working There is a malfunction in the heating thermostats There is a malfunction in the heating elements Rust calcium or other sediment has accumulated in the tank or pipes Ensure the unit is plugged in Check for a blown fuse and reset Push the rest button electric units only and be sure the thermostat and heating elements are working Test the thermostats and replace if necessary Test the elements and replace if necessary Flush the tank and pipes to remove the
27. e Grind a cut up lemon and then 2 3 cups of ice in the garbage disposal the lemon keeps your disposal fresh and odor free while the ice helps keep the blades sharp e Clean pop up sink and tub strainers e Pour a mixture of baking soda white vinegar and boiling water down drains to keep them running freely e Pour water down seldom used drains e Drain a few gallons of water from the valve at the base of the water heater to remove sediment and extend the life of the water heater e Clean faucet aerators and shower heads with a soft brush to remove mineral build up Appliances e Clean refrigerator drain pan e Clean dishwasher food filters and check that openings in spray arms are clear check dishwasher for leaks e Clean kitchen exhaust fan filters Heating and Cooling e Check furnace or cooling filter replace if necessary ANNUALLY OR SEMI ANNUALLY e SPRING Plumbing e Inspect septic field and tank area for flooding or odor e Have septic tank inspected and pumped as needed e Inspect water heater temperature pressure relief valve for signs of leaks or discharge e Flush the water heater Heating and Cooling e Clean around air conditioner compressor e Have heat pump or air conditioning system cleaned and tuned up before cooling season begins e Have evaporator coil inspected and cleaned if necessary e Have chimney s cleaned and inspected Electrical e Replace the batteries in smoke detectors twice a ye
28. e unit works but the door won t open the belt connecting the pulley with the motor may need adjusting DRIVEWAYS WALKWAYS amp STEPS Concrete driveways walkways and steps usually have expansion joints to minimize cracking However cracking is a natural characteristic of concrete that cannot be eliminated and should not create serious problems Snow and ice can damage concrete driveways walkways and steps Remove snow and ice promptly to protect your concrete If you cannot remove a thin layer of ice sprinkle sand or cat litter on the ice for traction Do not use salt or chemicals to melt the ice Salt and chemicals can damage your concrete and kill nearby grass trees and shrubs c If the crawl space smells musty you need more WOOD DECKS ventilation GARAGE DOORS You can prevent many garage door problems with regular maintenance 1 Periodically clean the tracks hinges and rollers 2 Lubricate the tracks hinges and rollers with penetrating oil or silicone spray 3 Lubricate the locks with graphite powder 4 Tighten the garage door screws every 12 months They fasten the hardware to the door and will loosen over time as the door settles or as wood doors shrink 5 Inspect the springs regularly Replace any springs that develop bulges or are unevenly spaced 6 Inspect the tracks for proper alignment crimps in the track and other damage If the door binds or drags it is likely the tracks are poorly aligned o
29. estart the self clean cycle To avoid damaging the burners do not use extra large and heavy cooking pans Helpful Hint e Regularly remove any grease or food build up around the burners and connections e If you have a self clean oven DO NOT use any other method to clean it Problem Possible Cause Solution The oven or burners will not ignite The pilot light is out Gas is not on Page 12 Relight the pilot Call the gas company if assistance is needed Ensure the gas valve is open If necessary contact the local gas company Gas Cooktop Range Oven con t Problem Possible Cause Solution The oven or burners will not ignite The burner cap is not properly set sealed burner unit Make sure the cap is seated properly is not tilted and does not rock or wobble Ensure the cap matches the burner size Your unit may have one or more burners that are different sizes and you want to make sure a small cap is not on a large burner The burner will not stay on The flame is not steady The burners leave soot or make an unusual noise The pilot port is clogged The unit is located in a drafty area The burner is clogged There is an incorrect mixture of gas and air There is an incorrect mixture of gas and air Clear the port with a toothpick small wire or pipe cleaner Try to avoid drafts near the range Clean the burner surface and ports Contact the local gas company Co
30. find these shutoff valves and switches You should keep a basic emergency kit that includes e A battery powered transistor radio A flashlight e Extra batteries e Candles and matches A first aid kit e A first aid manual These supplies will be welcomed if a natural disaster occurs In addition the first aid kit and first aid manual are good to have on hand for household use PLUMBING EMERGENCIES Main Water Shutoff Valve Main water shutoff valves are frequently located near water meters Your water meter is likely outside near the street Main water shutoff valves can also be located inside your home beneath a floor access panel or in a basement Floor access panels are commonly found in closet floors Look for a large valve in the middle of a pipe Page 2 ELECTRICAL EMERGENCIES Electrical emergencies such as an appliance malfunction a power failure in your home or a neighborhood power outage can occur at any time You should know how to turn off the electrical power to your home and turn off and reset individual circuit breakers Main Disconnect The main electrical disconnect should be located in or near the circuit panel box The circuit panel box is usually in the garage utility room or utility closet Turn off the electrical power to your house by shutting off the main disconnect The main disconnect is one or more main fuses or circuit breakers located on the circuit panel If the circuit panel is loc
31. ged Foods are left uncovered The drains are clogged The defrost timer heater or thermostat is damaged The drain hose or drain pan is cracked Replace the door gasket as necessary Cover and seal all food and liquids Clean all drains Check the timer heater and thermostat for defects Replace any broken parts The refrigerator leaks water underneath or inside The refrigerator has an unusual odor The drains are clogged or the drain pan is full The drains are clogged The drain pan is dirty Food has fallen under crisper or meat drawers Page 14 Clear all drains and be sure the drain pan is empty Flush and clear all drains Clean and disinfect the drain pan Remove the drawers and clean Clothes Washer e Adjust the level of your washing machine by turning the legs clockwise to lower them or counter clockwise to Omm raise them e To clean your washing machine fill it with warm water and pour a gallon of distilled vinegar into it Run the machine through an entire cycle The vinegar will clean the hoses and unclog the soap scum e To remove odors inside of the washer fill it with hot water then set for regular speed and longest time Add a cup of baking soda Allow washer to complete entire wash and rinse cycle If odor lingers repeat entire process Problem Possible Cause Solution The unit will not turn on The outlet does not have power The safety switch
32. insects to gain entry to your siding 2 Examine along the base of your home to make sure you have at least 6 8 inches of clearance between the ground and any wood siding or wood trim 3 If necessary re grade your soil away from any wood Stain 1 Stain protects wood siding from moisture and insects 2 Re stain your siding every five to seven years or as necessary to restore color and preserve your siding Dry Rot and Termite Damage Dry rot is a fungus that causes wood to crumble and termites destroy wood by chewing its interior 1 Probe the edges of the wood siding with a knife or thin screw driver and look for soft spongy spots Pay particular attention to any part of the siding that was close to or in contact with the ground 2 Check for visible evidence of termites Look for their translucent one half inch long wings or the mud tubes they sometimes build If you find evidence of dry rot or termites consult a licensed termite or pest control professional Holes and Split Warped or Loose Siding Simple surface problems such as holes in the wood split or cracked boards warped or buckled boards and loose siding should be repaired as soon as they appear Water will work its way through these defects into the interior wall where rotting can take place undetected Find the source by checking for deteriorating roofing leaking gutters or downspouts and poor drainage EXTERIOR CAULKING Caulking is used t
33. it The unit has power the motor is clicking occasionally and the light is on yet it is not cooling The condenser coils are dirty Clean the coils by gently vacuuming The unit cools poorly cycles off and on or is constantly on The condenser fan is malfunctioning frost free type The thermostat is on the wrong setting The condenser coils are dirty The door gasket is damaged allowing air to escape There is heavy frost accumulation The weather is hot and humid Heat is coming from the light because it is not turning off when the door is closed Inspect the fan Repair or replace as needed Adjust the temperature setting If the thermostat is adjusted to 34 F or under try keeping the refrigerator at 40 F instead Clean the coils by gently vacuuming Inspect the gasket and replace as necessary Defrost the unit regularly If the unit runs continuously but cools correctly there is no malfunction with your unit Try to cool the room Push each switch button one at the light and one near the door Make sure they are not stuck The unit makes unusual noises The unit is not sitting level The drain pan rattles The fan blades are blocked by something Level the unit Center the pan so it does not touch the sides and is clear of the compressor Be sure the evaporator and compressor fans are not obstructed The unit ices up quickly or will not defrost The door gasket is dama
34. it is not jammed and push the reset button usually located on the bottom of the unit to restore power to the unit The breaker trips when the disposal is turned on Too many appliances are plugged into the circuit The disposal needs its own 15 amp circuit outlet The motor makes a humming noise The impeller blades are jammed After turning off the power to the disposal use tongs or pliers to clear all items that are jamming the blades Insert an allen wrench that fits into the bottom of the unit and turn the allen wrench back and forth several times until the motor is free Push the reset button when you are done to restore power to the unit The disposal is making an unusual amount of noise There is a metallic or other hard object in the unit The mounting screws are loose Inspect the unit and remove the object with tongs or pliers Tighten the mounting screws at the top of the disposal where it mounts to the bottom of the sink flange The disposal is leaking The sink drain connection is loose Secure the flanges surrounding the gasket between the disposal and the sink or replace the rubber gasket if necessary The disposal takes too long to grind all the food There is not enough water There is improper waste in the disposal Page 10 When using the disposal run more cold water After turning off the power to the disposal use tongs or pliers to clear all items that are not
35. l spots holes in the interior lining Food particles are stuck to the walls and need to be removed regularly before damage begins Boil a cup of water mixed with two tablespoons of lemon juice or baking soda for 3 5 minutes The steam will loosen the food that can then be wiped away The touch pad does not operate correctly Power is not reaching the unit The clock is not set Improper programming or a program sequence was entered Ensure the unit is plugged in Check for a blown fuse and reset Set the clock Press CLEAR and start over Sometimes improper programming or a program sequence such as delay start can cause the touch pads to be non responsive The turntable is not turning The turntable is not set in properly The turntable was placed upside down A timer function was selected Set the turntable securely on the turntable motor and ensure it is centered or it will not turn Turn the turntable right side up If the turntable is upside down it will drag on the floor of the microwave Ensure a cook function is selected There is a popping noise or arcing in the unit Trash Compactor e Replace the deodorant regularly to prevent odors The unit was turned on when it was empty Metal or metallic trimmed items were placed in the microwave The metal cooking rack that comes with the unit is not set in place correctly Always have something in the microwave when
36. lectrical outlet may be at fault Test the outlet by plugging another appliance you know works properly into the receptacle If that plug sparks too replace the outlet or have it replaced by a professional electrician If the new appliance does not cause sparks then the original appliance is probably faulty and should be repaired or replaced GAS LEAKS Your home may be serviced with natural or bottled gas Gas is a safe clean economical energy source for appliances such as furnaces boilers water heaters dryers cooktops fireplaces and barbecues Although gas appliances are wonderful conveniences gas must be treated with respect If you smell gas inside or outside your home hear gas escaping from a broken line or see a broken gas line you should e Get everyone out of and away from your home immediately e Call your local gas company or your fire department from a neighbor s house e Do not light a match turn a light on or off use a telephone portable cellular or regular or operate any electrical switch or electronic device flames or electric sparks can ignite the leaking gas e Leave as many windows and doors open as Page 3 possible the gas will rise and dissipate harmlessly outside If the gas leak is inside your home you can turn off your gas supply at the gas shutoff valve after everyone is out of the house If you prefer you can have your utility company turn off the gas The gas shutoff valve
37. lk so you can find the areas later If it is necessary to remove fiberglass insulation to examine the sheathing wear loose clothing gloves goggles and a respirator for protection Turn off the lights and look for light coming through the roof This is a sign of holes cracks or other problems Small shafts of light coming in at an angle indicate cracks that may swell shut when shingles are wet If you see any holes above you drive nails or poke wire through the holes so they will be visible from the roof s surface Inspecting from the Outside all roof types 1 Inspect the flashing in the following areas a Roof valleys b Roof and plumbing vents c Around chimneys d Along eaves e Anywhere water can seep through open joints into the roof sheathing Look for any flashing that has buckled or pulled away from the joints it is supposed to protect Look for holes and rust spots along the flashing surface a Small holes and rust patches can be patched or sealed b Replace the flashing if you find large holes or extensive corrosion Examine the flashing seams for dried or cracked roofing cement Re seal as necessary Look for loose nails and exposed nail heads They should be re nailed and covered with caulk or roofing cement Check gutters for any loose spikes or support straps and repair as necessary Gutters should slope gently towards the downspouts Reset gutters that s
38. mendations should be printed on the side of your fire extinguisher ROOF MAINTENANCE It s easy to ignore your roof unless it begins to leak demanding immediate attention If you inspect your roof periodically you can correct minor problems before they cause major damage Do not go up on your roof unless you e Feel comfortable working from heights e Know how to safely use an extension ladder e Have the necessary tools and equipment If you have a tile or slate roof do not go on your roof for any reason These types of roof shingles can be easily broken from your body weight Many roofing materials come with manufacturer s warranties However in order to make a claim on a warranty you may need to know e The manufacturer s name e The place purchased e The installer s name ROOF INSPECTION You should inspect your roof e Each fall before the winter weather begins e After heavy wind or snow storms to inspect for damage e In the spring to look for winter damage If you discover any problems call a roofing professional Inspecting from the Inside 1 Begin your roof inspection in the attic Examine the main roof ridge rafters and sheathing for moisture Look for a Water stains b Dark colored areas of wet wood c Soft spots that may indicate dry rot Use a strong flashlight to inspect visually then use a knife or thin screwdriver to probe for dry rot Mark any problem areas with cha
39. ning season have maintenance service done on your system e Use window shades and awnings in the summer to reduce the amount of sunlight entering your home and lower cooling costs Problem Possible Cause Tighten the pulley screws Replace the worn belt or loosen the tension Oil the bearings Solution The unit will not turn on There is a blown fuse or tripped breaker Check the circuit breaker and replace the fuses in the disconnect box Always turn off the circuit breaker before replacing the fuses The air is not cool enough The condenser coil is dirty There is direct sun on the evaporator unit The insulation has fallen off the feed line There may be a clog in the evaporator unit or something blocking the fan Remove all debris from and around the unit so that air can properly circulate through the fans and replace clean the filters Create shade for the unit Reattach any loose insulation and replace any worn out insulation Clean out the evaporator unit The unit constantly cycles off and on The filter is dirty Replace or clean the filter Water is leaking into the walls or ceiling attic installation The drain hose from the condenser pan is clogged Page 16 Unclog the hose so water can empty through it Electrical System J neta in e To prevent power outages be sure to avoid overloading circuits with too many appliances or fixtures Problem Possible
40. ntact the local gas company The oven overheats or bakes unevenly The oven was not pre heated Circulation in the oven is affected by placement of aluminum foil in the oven The exhaust vent is clogged The calibration needs to be adjusted The door gasket is damaged Allow your oven to preheat before baking Since many items have a short cooking time failure to preheat dramatically affects cooking results If you use aluminum foil on your oven shelf never cover the entire shelf This will block the circulation of the heat in the oven Allow two inches around the back and sides of the oven shelf for proper heat circulation Clean the vent to eliminate the clog If necessary replace the air filter Call the manufacturer who will help you re calibrate the unit over the phone Replace the door gasket The oven door will not open The self clean dials are in the ON position Reset the self clean dials to the OFF position There is a gas odor at the unit Microwave Oven Helpful Hints Problem The pilot is not lit The gas line is leaking Possible Cause Ventilate the room and relight the pilot Extinguish all flames Do not turn on any electrical switches Immediately notify the local gas company e Do not use pans or dishes that are metal or have metallic trim e Use only mild soap and or baking soda to clean the interior of the microwave Solution There are smal
41. o seal joints gaps and seams in exterior walls Without caulking cool air water and insects could enter your home through these openings Typically your home should be re caulked every five years or less Where to Inspect Roof e Where one flashing meets another flashing e Where the flashing and a roof or dormer surface meet e Where a chimney flue plumbing or electrical pipe attic fan or skylight protrudes through the roof surface Exterior Walls e Where siding and trim meet at corners e Where siding meets the foundation patio deck or any other part of your home e Around window and door frames e Between poorly fitted pieces of siding e Where pipes framing members and other materials protrude through siding Page 7 FOUNDATIONS Your foundation supports your home and keeps it from shifting You should inspect your foundation twice a year to ensure it lasts for the life of your home The type of foundation you have depends on your home s design and your particular soil conditions In areas where flooding or weak soil is a problem houses are often built on piers or pilings In some areas pressure treated wood foundations have become popular The most common foundation however is a concrete or masonry perimeter enclosing a crawl space full cellar or basement Foundation Inspection Cracks 1 Begin your inspection by looking for cracks along the foundation s outside wall a Normal curing of con
42. r need lubrication 7 Keep wood doors sealed and painted particularly along the bottom edge to prevent swelling and moisture damage Garage Door Opener An improperly adjusted garage door opener can cause a serious accident Your openers should have Page 8 Cedar or redwood boards treated wood and stained or painted wood are common materials for wood decks Cedar and redwood are more expensive than other decking materials but do not need to be painted or pressure treated As the cedar weathers it will turn a distinctive driftwood gray color Redwood darkens to a natural color as it weathers Your wood decking will expand and contract with changes in the weather This will cause nails to pull away from the boards and could cause some boards to warp 1 Reset any pulled nails and re nail any warped boards with a finishing hammer 2 Do not use a regular hammer The head of a regular carpenter s hammer will dent the wood around the nail There should be gaps between the deck boards so that water can drain from the deck These gaps however can collect dirt leaves and other debris The obstructions can then soak up water and cause the wood to decay Places where deck boards rest on joists underneath the deck are particularly prone to collecting obstructions Your deck will last longer if you clean between the deck boards with a pressure washer once a year Systeha Appliance Malta W ACTION Troubleshooting
43. r has a malfunction See the owner s manual for specific instructions Check the fuse in the timer circuit Turn the power off and tighten all loose electrical connections Replace the timer The oven overheats A vent is clogged Clear the vent to eliminate the clog If necessary replace the air filter The oven does not hold the temperature that was set The door gasket is damaged The thermostat is not calibrated correctly Replace the door gasket Call the manufacturer who will help you re calibrate the unit over the phone There is a lot of condensation moisture in the oven The vent is clogged The door does not close properly Clear the vent to eliminate the clog If necessary replace the air filter Inspect the door hinges and gasket Repair or replace as needed The light in the oven does not work The bulb is burnt out There is a defective switch or poor wiring to the bulb socket Turn off the oven and replace the bulb with the correct type and size Test the switch and wiring Replace parts as needed The oven door does not close properly A hinge or spring is malfunctioning Replace the defective part Features on the control panel are not working A fuse has blown Check the fuse in the accessory circuit The oven s self clean function is not working Gas Cooktop Range Oven The door is not locked Securely shut and re latch the door and then r
44. rance and will help preserve your paint stain or siding finish Wash from the bottom up with a solution of soap and warm water Washing from the bottom up prevents streaking Pay particular attention to the areas around door handles and window catches where dirt and grease will be heaviest Rinse with fresh water from top to bottom to prevent runs of dirty liquid on a newly cleaned surface You can use a pressure washer or a garden hose and scrub brush for this job If you find mildew on your siding apply a household bleach solution directly to any affected areas and rinse with a garden hose SIDING INSPECTION Paint 1 Protect your siding by inspecting for paint problems twice a year and repainting every two to five years or as necessary 2 Peeling or blistering paint is usually caused by warm moist vapor from the house flowing through the walls reaching the cold sheathing and condensing a Just a few drops of water between the siding and the film of paint will cause paint to blister and peel b It may be necessary to install vents in the siding to remedy the moisture problem c The defective areas should be properly prepared and repainted 3 If you observe other paint problems such as worn flaking wrinkling or alligatoring paint properly prepare and repaint the affected area Ground Clearance 1 Untreated wood must not be in contact with the ground Moisture from the soil can cause decay as well as allow
45. s You can retard food spoilage by not opening refrigerators or freezers during the outage unless absolutely necessary Food in a tightly packed freezer will stay frozen for up to 48 hours if the door has been kept closed Food in a partially filled freezer may keep for 24 hours If you are in doubt about the safety of frozen food after a power outage throw it out Sparking Appliance Do not touch a smoking or sparking appliance Instead cut off power to the appliance by unplugging the appliance turning off the wall switch controlling the appliance or turning off the circuit breaker for the appliance Allow the appliance to cool then take it to a repair shop or call a professional service representative to repair the appliance If the appliance catches fire get everyone out of the house meet at your designated area and call the fire department from a neighbor s home Do not use water on an electrical fire it can be fatal If you discover an electrical fire early use a multipurpose fire extinguisher on the flames If an appliance s electrical plug smokes or sparks unplug the appliance by pulling its cord Do not touch the plug itself After the plug cools inspect the plug and cord for damage If they are damaged replace the plug and cord or have them replaced by a professional service representative Reset any tripped circuit breakers If the plug and cord appear to be OK and there are no tripped circuit breakers the e
46. s tighten screws e Inspect paint and sealant on exterior and garage door particularly along the bottom edge Interior e Inspect walls and ceiling for cracks sags bowing or leaning e Clean and seal tile grout Page 1 ANNUALLY OR SEMI ANNUALLY e FALL Plumbing e Close and drain hose bibs drain and store hoses e Check septic field and tank area for flooding or odor e Inspect water heater temperature pressure relief valve for signs of leaks or discharge Heating and Cooling e Clean around air conditioner condenser then cover to protect during the fall winter months e Have fireplace and flues inspected and cleaned repair as needed e Schedule heating system tune up and cleaning e Clean ceiling fan blades Exterior e Check paint siding or masonry for deterioration e Trim foundation plantings to leave a foot of clear space between plantings and house e Rake debris away from side of house and other structures e Clean gutters and downspouts repair as needed e Check roof for leaks e Check exterior house siding e Trim any tree branches near or touching roof or gutters e Check all exterior caulk repair as needed e Insulate for winter On a windy day feel around the edges of doors windows and fireplaces for any air leaks Look for dust piles as clues to leaks Caulk and repair weather stripping as needed e Clear storm window weep holes of debris e Clean under decks and porches as well as the space be
47. sediment build up There is not enough hot water The thermostat is set incorrectly Heat is getting lost in the pipes The hot water faucets leak There is a malfunction in the heating elements Rust calcium or other sediment has accumulated in the tank The orifices on the burner are clogged Adjust the thermostat to a higher setting nsulate the hot water pipes Repair or replace the leaky faucets Test the elements and replace if necessary urn off the power Flush the tank to remove the sediment Turn off the heater wait for it to cool and clean out the clogged orifices The water is too hot The thermostat is set incorrectly There is a malfunction in the heating thermostats There is a malfunction in the heating elements The exhaust vent is clogged gas unit here is not enough insulation around the thermostats Turn down the thermostat ighten the insulation around the thermostats Test the thermostats and replace if necessary Test the elements and replace if necessary Clean the vent to remove the clog The water heater is leaking There is a leak in the drain cock element seal or element gasket The safety valve is leaking Rust calcium or other sediment has accumulated in the tank Tighten or replace the seal or gasket If the water is too hot steam will be released through the safety valve Turn down the thermostat If the safety valve is defective replace it
48. t hot enough The water heater setting is too low The water supply hoses are misconnected There is a defect in the mixing valve or timer Set the thermostat on the water heater to between 140 F and 160 F Reconnect the hot water hose to the hot water side and the cold water hose to the cold water side Replace the valve or timer The water runs continuously The overflow switch hose is disconnected The overflow switch timer or mixing valve is defective Replace the water hose Replace the overflow switch timer or mixing value as necessary The unit is leaking water The hose connection is loose The gasket mixing valve hoses overflow switch or sensor is defective Tighten the connection Replace the defective part or parts as necessary The unit shakes or vibrates across the floor Clothes Dryer The machine or load is not level There is a loose defective hose connection J ett rine e Clean the lint screen after each load of clothes Problem Possible Cause Level the machine and distribute clothes evenly in the tub Tighten or replace the connection Solution The unit will not turn on The door is open No power is reaching the unit The motor wiring is loose There is a defect in the door switch centrifugal switch or timer Shut the door securely Ensure the unit is plugged in Reset the fuse box or circuit breaker Tighten all loose electrical
49. tween the deck boards e Clean out basement window wells ANNUALLY OR SEMI ANNUALLY e WINTER Plumbing e Clean and seal grout e Exercise turn off and on plumbing shutoff valves and inspect for leaks e Inspect water heater temperature pressure relief valve for signs of leaks or discharge Electrical e Ensure your supply of flashlights has fresh batteries in case of a winter storm power outage Exterior e Inspect roof after large winter storms e Inspect gutters and downspouts for leaks during a rainstorm e Keep gutters free from debris and ice e On a windy day feel around the edges of doors windows and fireplaces for any air leaks Look for dust piles as clues to leaks Caulk and repair weather stripping as needed Eha ergencies OVERVIEW Despite your best precautions emergencies can still occur You can prevent an emergency from becoming a catastrophe by learning what to do This section discusses how to react to e Plumbing emergencies e Electrical emergencies e Gas leaks e A fire Read this section and discuss it with all members of your household reviewing annually so that everyone is prepared for an emergency Make copies of these pages for your baby sitters so they will be prepared if an emergency strikes while you are away The first step during an electrical problem water leak or gas leak is to shut off the flow of electricity water or gas to your home Every member of your household should know how to
50. ure switch tripped due to a dirty filter Light the pilot Turn the pilot setting to the ON position Be sure the gas cock is in the correct position Reset the circuit breaker or relight the pilot Backwash the filter The water pressure is too low or too high The filter is dirty or blocked The skimmer and pump basket are clogged The valves are in the wrong position There is a water leak Backwash the filter and clean the cartridge Clean the skimmer and pump basket Correct the valve position Locate and repair the leaks The filter is not working The circuit breaker has tripped The motor is not plugged in or the timer is not set properly The filter is clogged Page 17 Reset the circuit breaker Plug in the motor and reset the timer D E Filter Backwash or replace Sand Filter Replace sand Cartridge Filter Remove and clean cartridge Important Information Old Republic Home Protection Service 800 972 5985 Old Republic Home Protection Plan Phone Company Gas Company Electric Company Water Company Cable Company Fire Station Police Station Homeowner s Insurance Agent Homeowner s Policy Poison Control Center 4 rQ ve ky OLD REPUBLIC HOME PROTECTION Were People Helping People EQUAL HOUSING
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