Sincerely, Simpson

Does your garbage disposal constantly get clogged? Are your shower walls turning pink? Or maybe your dishwasher leaves your dishes full of water spots. If any of these situations sound familiar to you, follow these easy maintenance tips from our Maintenance Guru Bryan Hernandez to help avoid these common household issues.

Air Conditioning (AC)
Keep an eye on your AC filter. It is recommended to replace AC filters once a month. A clogged filter can cause compressor failure resulting in timely repairs so make sure to enter work orders for your community’s maintenance team when you notice the filter is getting dirty.

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Avoid restricting air flow to your HVAC return vent. This will mimic the effects of a clogged/dirty filter and will not allow for optimal heating or cooling.

Shower
Use a squeegee in your stand-up showers after every use to help prevent mildew stains.

Dishwasher
Before running your dishwasher:

• Run hot water on the side of the kitchen sink where the line that supplies water to your dishwasher is located.
• Hot water (102°F) must enter the dishwasher to activate the detergent which sanitizes your dishes.

After the drying cycle:

• Open the dishwasher door to assist in releasing steam and to help prevent condensation spots on your dishes. This is especially true in humid regions.

Windows
Keep an eye on window condensation during the winter and summer months. Make sure to wipe away any condensation you notice on your windows as soon as possible.

Garbage Disposal

• When using your garbage disposal, run cold water before, during, and after it has been turned on. This will keep the motor cool and assist in breaking down food particles.
• Rule of thumb: “When in doubt, throw it out.”
• If you can’t chew it, do not put it down the garbage disposal.
• Only put food that is leftover on your plate after scraping your plate clean into the garbage first.
• Use ice cubes to clean the garbage disposal. The hard ice chips help knock down the build up below the seal and in the grinder wheel.