How to maintain your water softener

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Maintaining a water softener ensures that your home has the best water quality. Whether you are looking to protect your home’s plumbing system, reduce your water bills, or improve the taste of your tap water, a water softener can help. But, like any appliance, your water softener will require regular maintenance to ensure it functions correctly. In this article, we will discuss tips on maintaining your water softener.

Water Softener

Water Softener

Firstly, check the salt levels in your water softener. Most water softeners use salt to remove the minerals that cause hard water. Over time, the salt levels will decrease, and you will need to refill them. Look for the “salt level” indicator on your water softener and make sure it is complete. If not, use a scoop to fill it with salt. Do this at least once every six months or when the indicator indicates it is low.

Secondly, make sure your water softener is set correctly. You can do this by checking the settings on the control valve. The settings will vary depending on the type of softener you have. Look for the “grain setting” and ensure it is appropriate for your water. If you are unsure, consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions.

Thirdly, regularly clean your water softener. Remove any dirt, debris, or sediment that has built up, and rinse out any accumulated salt. This will help keep the system running smoothly and prevent any potential damage. You should clean your water softener at least once every 3-5 years.

Finally, check the pressure of your water softener. The pressure of your water softener should remain consistent, so make sure it is not fluctuating. If it is, you may need to adjust the pressure settings on the control valve.

By following these simple tips for water softener maintenance, you can ensure your home has the best water quality possible. Remember these tips; you should have no problem maintaining your water softener.

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How to clean your washer and dryer

How to clean your washer and dryer is an essential part of home maintenance that helps keep your appliances running smoothly and efficiently. The process is simple and only requires a few items and steps to ensure your washer and dryer are sparkling clean.

How to clean your washer and dryer

How to clean your washer and dryer

The first step is removing lint or other debris from the lint traps. This should be done regularly, as lint can clog the vents and reduce the efficiency of the machines. Next, use a dry, soft cloth to wipe down the lint traps and the exterior of the machines. This will help to remove any dust and grime that has built up over time.

Once the exterior is clean, it’s time to clean the inside of the washer and dryer. You’ll need a small amount of mild detergent and some white vinegar to do this. Mix the detergent and vinegar to form a soapy solution, and then use a soft cloth to wipe down the inside of the washer and dryer. Be sure to pay special attention to the seals and gaskets, as these are often missed when cleaning.

Once the inside has been cleaned, it’s time to clean the filter and drain system. This should be done once every few months to ensure that any lint or debris accumulating doesn’t clog the system and reduce efficiency. To do this, remove the filter and place it in a sink filled with the soapy solution you made earlier. Let it soak for about 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. The drain system can be cleaned with the same method.

Finally, use a soft cloth to shine up all metal surfaces, like the knobs and control panel. This will help to keep the washer and dryer looking good and running smoothly.

Cleaning your washer and dryer is an essential part of home maintenance. With just a few supplies and steps, your washer and dryer can be sparkling clean and ready to use. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help your appliances run more efficiently and last longer.

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How to fix Double-Paned Window Condensation

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Double-paned windows are becoming increasingly popular for homeowners, offering thermal insulation and soundproofing. Unfortunately, condensation can develop between the panes, creating an unsightly appearance. How to fix double-paned window condensation requires a few simple steps.

First, locate the source of the condensation. Several possible causes include insufficient window sealing, cold weather, or high humidity. If the condensation is due to poor window sealing, the homeowner should contact a professional to seal the window properly. In cases of cold weather or high humidity, the homeowner can take steps to reduce condensation.

How to fix Double-Paned Window Condensation

How to fix Double-Paned Window Condensation

If the condensation is due to cold weather, the homeowner should ensure that no drafts are coming in from outside. This can be done by installing weather stripping and closing curtains and blinds to prevent cold air from entering the home. Additionally, the homeowner can use a dehumidifier to reduce the amount of moisture in the air.

In cases of high humidity, the homeowner should consult with a professional about installing a ventilation system. A ventilation system will help to remove excess moisture from the air, thereby reducing condensation in the window. Additionally, the homeowner should open curtains and blinds, allowing air circulation.

Finally, the homeowner should upgrade the window to a more efficient double-paned design. This will help to improve the thermal insulation, reduce noise, and reduce condensation. Newer models of window panes are designed to be more airtight and have better insulation.

These steps can help to reduce condensation in double-paned windows and give the homeowner a more visually appealing window. While condensation can be a problem, taking the proper steps can help to reduce or even eliminate it.

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Waterproofing the Basement

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Waterproofing the basement is essential for any homeowner, as it helps prevent flooding, mold growth, and structural damage. A basic waterproofing system typically consists of several components, including a drainage system, sump pump, and interior or exterior waterproofing membranes.

The first step to waterproofing the basement is to create a drainage system. This system will collect water from outside the home and channel it away from the foundation, preventing it from seeping in and causing damage. Installing a perimeter and French drain can help direct water away from home.

Basement Waterproofing

Basement Waterproofing

The second step is to install a sump pump. A sump pump collects groundwater in a sump basin, then pumps it out of the basement and away from home. This helps to prevent groundwater from pooling around the foundation, which can lead to the foundation cracking or shifting.

Finally, homeowners can apply interior or exterior waterproofing membranes to the basement walls. Internal membranes are applied directly to the basement walls and act as a barrier between the dampness of the basement and the living area. Exterior membranes are used outside the foundation and act as a barrier between the foundation and the surrounding soil.

By taking steps such as creating a drainage system, installing a sump pump, and applying interior or exterior waterproofing membranes, a homeowner can effectively waterproof their basement and protect it from flooding, mold growth, and structural damage. Taking the time to waterproof a basement can save a homeowner thousands of dollars in the long run, making it an essential step for any homeowner.

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What Causes Sewer Blockages?

What Causes Sewer Blockages?

Some of the most common causes of sewer blockage are:

  • Build-up of grease, debris or foreign objects in the sewer lateral or city sewer main.
  • Partial or complete blockage caused by tree root intrusion into sewer pipes.
  • Sewer line collapse caused by old and deteriorated sewer pipes.
  • Debris entering the sewer system from illegal pipe connections.

Here are a few tips that will help protect against blockages:

Sewer mainline blockages are more common than most people think. Helping reduce blockages can reduce the cost to fix the problem, and reduce your overall maintenance expenditures.

Roots: Don’t plant trees or large shrubs near sewer lines. Roots grow toward breaks and cracks in the pipes in search of a source. If roots get inside the pipe, they form root balls that clog the line. Products are available that chemically treat roots which have found their way into pipes.

Roots in Sewer Line

 

Grease: Dispose of grease and fats with your trash – don’t put them down the drain! Grease collects and hardens inside the pipes and forms a plug.

Grease is Sewer Line

Deteriorated pipes: Some homes may have damaged or deteriorated pipes. Before considering upgrades or replacement, you may want to contact a plumber to discuss which options are appropriate for your situation.

Illegal plumbing connections: Don’t connect backyard drains, sump pumps and other drainage systems to the sanitary sewer. It’s illegal and debris and silt will clog your line. Consult a plumber to disconnect illegal connections.

Curious to know what causes sewer blockages? If you’re ready to schedule your sewer scope inspection in Orange County, simply contact Signature Home Inspection at (888) 860-2688 or submit the convenient form on our website.

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Signs That Your A/C Needs Servicing

Air conditioner is an electronic device with moving parts. It is prone to develop problems with constant use and passage of time. Regular servicing and maintenance makes sure that it keeps performing at optimal levels. However, there are some signs that tell your air conditioner requires immediate servicing.

Cooling efficiency has gone down

If you are not feeling comfortable even when your air conditioner is running at full capacity, you know that something is not right with the unit. Sweating or feeling uncomfortable when your A/C is running full blast is a sign that the unit has developed some snag. It is a sign that the A/C is not generating enough cold air to lower the temperature inside your home. You should clean the air filters of your A/C but that is the most you can do for troubleshooting. You need to call up experienced engineer to find if there are any issues with the electronic control panel or the cooling gas inside the air conditioner.

Your A/C is making strange sounds or generating smells

Smells and sounds are an indication that all is not well with your air conditioning unit. You should call up you’re A/C engineer to attend to your unit as soon as you sense some foul smell or hear strange noises made by the unit. Your A/C could be overheating, or some circuit might be burning in case of foul smell. If you hear weird sounds, they could be a result of loose fan belt or a malfunctioning fan motor. In fact, ignoring or overlooking sounds coming out of your air conditioning unit could prove dangerous as it can be a precursor to a big problem. Instead of waiting and then spending huge amount of money on repairs, it is a better idea to get your air conditioning unit serviced in time.

Very high electricity bills

Every air conditioning unit comes with a rating that determines how many units it will consume in a given time. If you find that your electricity bills have increased too much, it is a sign that your air conditioning unit is consuming a lot of electricity. Dirty air filters block normal air flow and your unit starts to consume more electricity than it should. However, if cleaning of air filters does not solve your problem, the malaise lies somewhere else and it can be detected only a trained and experienced engineer.

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Flushing a Water Heater

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How to Clean Algae and Moss Off Asphalt Shingles

Stains on asphalt roofing shingles make a house look shabby, which detracts from its value. In some cases, stains are merely a cosmetic issue.  But sometimes they’re symptomatic of a problem that, if left unchecked, can lead to more serious damage and, eventually, roof failure. It’s not always hard to distinguish the causes of stains, nor, in most cases, to get rid of them and prevent the stains from recurring.

Common Causes of Staining

Dark stains on an asphalt roof could be caused by a number of conditions, including:

Eroded mineral surface. If the roof-covering material has been on the house for 15 years or so, it could be that the surface granules are wearing off the shingles and the asphalt base is starting to show through. On older roofs, you may additionally see cracked and/or shingles with curled edges. If you determine that age and wear are the causes of darkening, it may be time for a new roof.

Algae growth. More often than not, blue, green or black stains on an asphalt-shingle roof are caused by algae. Algae staining begins with small spots which, over time, can develop into streaks. Algae stains, which are often mistaken for mold or mildew, aren’t harmful to anything other than the appearance of asphalt shingles, but nobody likes the look.

Moss. Green, velvety masses of moss often grow on north-facing roof surfaces and on tree-shaded roofs. Unlike algae, moss left on roof surfaces can develop beyond an aesthetic problem. It can infiltrate the roof structure underneath the shingles and make their edges lift and curl, which can lead to cracking and blow-off during high winds and storms. Heavy moss growth can actually form dams that can cause water to back up under the shingles and damage the roof deck. It’s best to clean moss off a roof as soon as you notice it’s growing there.

Safety First

Both algae and moss can be easily removed from asphalt shingles with a 50/50 solution of chlorine bleach and water. Laundry-strength bleach is sufficient, or you can opt for any of a number of proprietary roof cleaners, some of which don’t contain bleach, lye, or other potentially harmful chemicals.

Since bleach and some cleaners can be harmful to plants and humans, it’s a good idea to take some precautions when working with them, including the following:

  • Wait for a calm, windless day to clean your roof.
  • Spray landscape plants near the house with water and cover them with tarps to protect them from chemical overspray and runoff.
  • Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, pants and gloves, as well as goggles to protect your eyes, and shoes with high-traction soles.

Before climbing up to clean stains from your roof, be aware that about 30,000 people fall off ladders and roofs each year.  Consider using a safety harness, just as the pros are required to do, and follow the common-sense rules for properly positioning and using a ladder, which can be found in InterNACHI’s article on ladder safety.  Also, be sure to notify someone that you’ll be on your roof.  In case of an accident that incapacitates you, you’ll want someone to know where to look for you.

How to Clean Algae and Moss from a Roof

Apply the bleach solution with a garden sprayer. Let it stand on the surface for about 20 minutes, then rinse it off with spray from a garden hose. Don’t let the bleach solution stand on the roof for more than 30 minutes or so without rinsing. And don’t use a pressure washer, which can damage the shingles by removing their protective layer of asphalt granules.

If accumulations of algae or moss are heavy, at least some of it should wash off the roof surface right away with the stream from the hose. You can try brushing off algae and moss with a brush or broom with medium-stiff bristles, but don’t scrub too hard. You don’t want to separate the mineral granules from the shingles.

If chunks of algae or moss or heavy stains remain on the surface after rinsing, let the roof dry, then spray on the bleach solution again. Wait 30 minutes and rinse. Don’t worry if some staining remains after the second rinse. It should wash off over time with exposure to rain and sunlight.

How to Prevent Algae and Moss Stains from Recurring

Algae and moss tend to grow roof surfaces that are shaded and retain moisture. So, it’s a good idea to cut away tree branches that overhang the roof and block sunlight. Keep the roof surface clean by blowing off leaves and fallen branches during seasonal maintenance.

For long-term stain prevention, have zinc or copper strips installed under the cap shingles, leaving an inch or two of the surface exposed at roof peaks, along hips, and under the first course of shingles at the base of dormers. Copper and zinc are sacrificial metals that shed tiny bits of their surface with each rainfall. The metals coat the roof and inhibit organic growth for many years.

Following these maintenance tips can help homeowners enjoy an attractive roof.  They can also help extend the roof’s service life, which is important whether you plan to stay in your home or sell it in the future.

by Michael Chotiner of The Home Depot

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Changing the HVAC Filter

Part of responsible homeownership includes, of course, regular home maintenance.  And there are some tasks that, if deferred, can lead to a home system that’s inefficient and overworked, which can result in problems and expenses.  One such task is changing the HVAC filter.  It’s simple and inexpensive, and taking care of it at least every three months can mean the difference between optimum comfort and avoidable repairs.wrapped-furnace-filter

What Can Go Wrong

Most homes have some sort of furnace or heat pump, and many of those homes (especially newer ones) have combined heating, ventilation and air-conditioning or HVAC systems.  Each type uses some type of air filter or screen to prevent larger airborne particles (up to 40 microns) from entering the system and clogging sensitive machinery.  A system that has a dirty filter can suffer from pressure drop, which can lead to reduced air flow, or “blow-out,” resulting in no air infiltration at all.  Any of these conditions can cause the system to work harder to keep the home warm or cool (depending on the season and the setting).  And any mechanical component that has to work harder to run efficiently puts undue stress on the whole system, which can lead to premature failure, resulting in repair or replacement.

Also, a dirty filter that’s exposed to condensation can become damp, which can lead to mold growth that can be spread throughout the home by the HVAC system.  This can lead to serious health consequences, not to mention a compromised unit that will likely require servicing and may require replacement, depending on the severity of the moisture problem.

Types of Filters

Most HVAC and furnace filters are disposable, made of biodegradable paper or similar media, and shaped in cells, screens or fins designed to trap as much airborne debris as possible.  Filters can typically be purchased in economical multi-packs, and there are many types that will fit different models of furnace/HVAC units.  It’s important to use the appropriate filter for your unit; using the wrong filter that doesn’t fit the unit properly can create the same types of problems as having a dirty filter.  Your HVAC installer can show you where the filter goes and how to remove the old one and install a new one.  Your unit may also have an affixed label with directions for easy filter replacement.

How Often?

Your HVAC or furnace technician should service your unit once a year.  Because a furnace/HVAC unit contains moving parts, it’s important that belts are not cracked and dry, ventilation ductwork is not gapped, cracked or rusted, and components, such as coils and fans, are clog-free and adequately lubricated for unimpeded operation.  This sort of evaluation is best left to the professional, unless the homeowner has had the appropriate training.

The filter of the unit, especially if it’s an HVAC unit that will tend to get nearly year-round use, should be changed by the homeowner at least every three months, but possibly more often.

Check your filter’s condition and change it once a month if:

  • You run your unit six months a year to year-round.
  • You have pets.  Pet dander can become airborne and circulate through the home’s ventilation system just as typical household dust does.
  • You have a large family.  More activity means more household dust, dirt and debris.
  • You smoke indoors.
  • You or someone in your household suffers from allergies or a respiratory condition.
  • You live in a particularly windy area or experience high winds for extended periods, especially if there are no nearby shrubs or trees to provide a natural windbreak.
  • You live in an area prone to or having recently experienced any wildfires.  Airborne ash outdoors will eventually find its way indoors.
  • You have a fireplace that you occasionally use.
  • You live on a working farm or ranch.  Dust and dirt that gets kicked up by outdoor work activity and/or large animals can be pulled into the home’s ventilation system, especially through open windows.
  • You have a large garden.  Depending on its size and how often you work it, tilling soil, planting, pulling weeds, using herbicides and pesticides, and even watering mean that dirt, chemicals and condensation can be pulled into your home’s ventilation system.
  • There is construction taking place around or near the home.  You may be installing a new roof or a pool, or perhaps a neighbor is building a home or addition.  Even if the activity is only temporary, dust and debris from worksites adjacent to or near the home can be sucked into the home’s ventilation system, and this increased activity can tax your HVAC system.

Change the filter immediately if:

  • The filter is damaged.  Whether it happened inside the packaging or while being installed, a damaged filter that has bent fins, collapsed cells or holes will not work as well as an undamaged filter, especially if it allows system air to bypass the filter at any point.
  • The filter is damp.  A filter affected by moisture intrusion, system condensation, or even high indoor humidity can quickly become moldy and spread airborne mold spores throughout the home via the ventilation system.
  • There is evidence of microbial growth or mold on the filter.  Mold spores already infiltrating the home via the HVAC system are not only bad for the unit itself, but they can pose a health hazard for the family, ranging from an irritated respiratory system to a serious allergic reaction.  The musty smell produced by a moldy HVAC filter is also unpleasant and may take a while to completely eradicate from inside the home.  If you discover that you have moldy air filter, it’s important to have the cause investigated further.  An InterNACHI inspector or HVAC technician can help determine the problem so that it doesn’t recur.

Tips on Changing the Filter

  • Turn off the unit before replacing the filter.
  • Use the right filter for your unit and make sure it’s not damaged out of the package.
  • Follow the directions for your unit to make sure you’re installing the filter properly.  For example, many filters use different colors for the front and back (or upstream and downstream flow) so that they’re not installed backwards.
  • Make sure there aren’t any gaps around the filter frame.  If this is the case, you may have the wrong size filter, or the filter itself may be defective or damaged.
  • Use a rag to clean up any residual dust before and after you replace the filter.
  • Securely replace any levers, gaskets and/or seals.
  • Turn the unit on and observe it while it’s operating to make sure the filter stays in place.
  • Note the date of filter replacement in a convenient location for the next time you inspect it.  A filter that becomes dirty enough to change within a short period of time may indicate a problem with the unit or ventilation system, so monitoring how often the filter requires changing is important information for your technician to have.

Call a technician for servicing if:

  • Your unit fails to turn back on.
  • The fan is slow or makes excessive noise, or the fins are bent.
  • The coils are excessively dusty or clogged.
  • You notice moisture intrusion from an unknown source anywhere in the system.
Homeowners who take care of the easy task of changing their HVAC filter can help prevent system downtime and avoidable expenses, as well as keep their families living and breathing comfortably.  Your Signature Home Inspection inspector can provide more useful tips and reminders during your annual home maintenance inspection.
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