A disconnected dryer vent is a common issue that presents a safety and health hazard for a home’s occupants. Dryer vents are often routed through inaccessible areas, such as attics and crawlspaces. Because it is common for dryer vents to be out of view, it is also common for them to be neglected. Dryer [...]
Clogged sinks are a nuisance and can negatively affect the day-to-day operation of your plumbing system. Most of the time a clogged sink can be easily repaired by a homeowner using a few inexpensive tools. However, if the following repairs do not alleviate the issue, the clog may be the result of a more [...]
When functioning properly an automatic garage door is a convenient component of a home that helps to protect homeowners and their possessions. A malfunctioning garage door opener, on the other hand, can be a significant safety hazard. Modern garage door openers should have two automatic reverse features installed. They should reverse when resistance is applied [...]
Washing machines are a tremendously helpful modern appliance that reduce time spent washing clothes and are quick and efficient household appliances. However, as with any appliance or component in a home, they can fail or need repairs. Since they are directly connected to the distribution water supply, leakage at a washer can cause a [...]
Air conditioners and heat pumps are connected to the interior evaporator and condenser by a line set, also known as refrigerant lines. These copper tubes move refrigerant in a cycle through the compressor, condenser, and evaporator providing cool air (or warm air if a heat pump is used in heating mode). While this system [...]
An often overlooked part of a home’s HVAC system, except for during the hot summer months, is the air conditioning compressor. This usually looks like a large vented metal box containing a fan which spins and blows air around the compressor on the exterior of the home when the thermostat is set to cooling [...]
Ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs, are safety devices that are put on electrical outlets, also known as electrical receptacles. They're also located on extension cables, circuit breakers, and other electrical equipment. When the low-resistance grounding route from a tool or electrical system is broken, a ground fault occurs. The electrical current may then take [...]
Plumbing vents are an essential part of a home’s DWV (Drain Waste and Vent) system. They supply fresh air to the plumbing system in the home, which helps with proper water circulation. Additionally, plumbing vents create an avenue for toxic sewer gases to leave home. One of the most common defects we that we [...]
Water heaters are essential for all homes and generally require less maintenance as compared to other major appliances such as furnaces and air conditioners. However, water heaters that are not monitored can eventually leak and cause disastrous conditions. The average life expectancy of a water heater is approximately 6-12 years. Many homes contain water [...]
The term "drip edge" refers to the metal flashing or water-resistant barrier that is placed at the edge of a roof and that has an overhang from the roofline. It shields the fascia board from water seeping in from the top, underneath the shingles, and into your house. Drip edging aids in preventing capillary [...]
