EMERGENCY TIPS

The Plunger

Folks, it's a toilet, not a porcelain doll. Plunge it like ya mean it! Sharp, quick movements down AND up. Push and pull for the most effective job. It'll splash, yes. But it splashes when we do it, too. But when you do it, it doesn't cost a hundred bucks!

Filters

Change them. All filters need changing. The filters in your central air system can get clogged in as little as two weeks. Change them monthly. Cooling systems can sustain serious damage and warm air heating systems can actually become dangerous if filters are not changed regularly.

Thermostats

Consider programmable thermostats. They can significantly reduce energy costs. If you have electronic thermostats with batteries, they should have their batteries changed each year to keep them functioning accurately.

In Case of a REAL Emergency

I speak to customers all the time who tell me they don't know where their HVAC equipment is located. Or where the water comes into the house. Or where the circuit breakers are. Of course, they are also unaware of where the main water, gas, and electrical shut-offs are. I don't suggest anyone play firefighter, but it is important to know where these controls are in case of an emergency. It can mean the difference between a little adrenaline rush and the total loss of one's home. So, find them, mark them, and teach the rest of the family about them.

Also, every house should have a Furnace/Boiler emergency switch at the entrance to the equipment room or at the top of the basement stairs. You should NOT have to go into the boiler room to turn off the switch in an emergency.