DIY Maintenance Tips for Renters

Unclogging a sink naturally
1. Pour boiling water down the drain.
2. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
3. Pour ½ cup of vinegar down the drain.
4. Wait 10 minutes.
5. Pour boiling water down the drain again.
6. Turn on the hot water faucet to clear out the solution.

If we send out a plumber and it is a simple issue as just clearing the drain, it will be a tenant charge for the invoice. If we can resolve this by trying some of those steps will be a better financial choice.

Please advise that you have received this message and will try some of those options discussed above.

1. Check the Coils: Have you cleaned the refrigerator coils recently? Dust buildup can impact cooling. (Usually located at the back or bottom).
2. Don’t Overload: Is the refrigerator packed too full? Overcrowding can restrict airflow.
3. Check for Leaks: Are you noticing any water leaks inside or outside the refrigerator?
4. Temperature Setting: What temperature does the internal gauge read? Ensure it’s set to the recommended level.

1. Regular Use: Do you use the dishwasher regularly? Infrequent use can cause seals to dry out.
2. Pre-Rinsing: Are you rinsing dishes and removing large food debris before loading?
3. Regular Cleaning: Have you cleaned the inside of the dishwasher recently?

1. Load Size: Please describe what you are washing (e.g., small load of delicates, large load of towels).
2. Unit Information: Could you please send us a photo of the sticker on the washing machine that shows the model number? This helps us identify the specific unit.

1. Vent Cleaning: Do you know when the dryer vent was last professionally cleaned? Blocked vents are a fire hazard and reduce efficiency.
2. Vent Obstructions: Please check both the inside and outside dryer vents for any visible blockages (lint, debris, etc.).
3. Unusual Sounds: If you hear any strange noises, please describe the sound. (A squealing sound often indicates a worn belt).
4. Unit Information: Could you please send us a photo of the sticker on the dryer that shows the model number? This helps us identify the specific unit.

1. Food Disposal: Are you putting food scraps down the garbage disposal? Some items can cause clogs.
2. Reset Button: Have you tried pressing the red reset button, usually located on the bottom of the disposal unit?
3. Outlet and GFI: Please check the electrical outlet the disposal is plugged into. Try resetting the Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) outlet, often found in kitchens or bathrooms.

1. Issue Timeline & Responsibility: How long has this issue been happening? Do you know if this is typically a tenant or owner responsibility according to your lease agreement?
2. Clogged Drains: Have you attempted to clear the drain using a drain snake to remove hair, a drain cleaner specifically designed for clogs (follow product instructions carefully!), or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water?
3. Obstructions: Can you see anything lodged or stuck in the drain opening or garbage disposal blades? Never put your hand down the garbage disposal.

1. Filter Change: When was the last time you changed the air filter for your heating/cooling system? A dirty filter restricts airflow.
2. Thermostat Batteries: If you’re having thermostat issues, when were the batteries last changed?
3. Airflow: Can you feel air coming from the vents when the heating or cooling is turned on?
4. Outdoor Unit (Cooling): If it’s a cooling issue, is there frost or ice buildup on the outdoor condenser unit?
5. Outdoor Fan (Cooling): Can you hear the fan running on the outdoor condenser unit when the cooling is on?

1. Check Bulbs: Have you checked to make sure the light bulbs are working and properly installed?
2. Breaker Box & GFIs: Have you checked the circuit breaker box for any tripped breakers and reset any tripped Ground Fault Interrupters (GFIs) throughout the home?
3. Outlet Damage: Carefully inspect the outlet for any visible signs of damage. Do not use damaged outlets.

1. Responsibility: Please refer to your lease agreement to determine if landscape maintenance is your responsibility or the owner’s.
2. Photos: Please provide clear photos of the landscape issue.
3. Irrigation Leaks: If you notice an irrigation leak, please immediately turn off the water supply at the irrigation control box and look for any obvious wet spots or pooling water.