Eliminating that Skanky Front Loading Washer Smell

This is the best way I’ve found to eliminate that skanky smell from frontloading washing machines.

1. Clean out detergent dispenser drawer of all laundry detergent and fabric softener.
2. Purchase and use a washing machine "cleaner" found in grocery stores or follow the manufacturer’s instructions
3. Clean all rubber gaskets around door.
4. Only use powered laundry detergent.
5. Always leave door ajar when not in use.
6. Do not use liquid fabric softener, use only dryer sheets. 

We spent a lot of time and money replacing hoses, etc… and these steps are what worked!

* Image: istockphoto

Sometimes you just have to stop and start again…

The ice machine in the refrigerator was not working. The water dispenser in the refrigerator was not working. Two very convenient features, which when one looked at the control panel, there was no reason why they shouldn’t be working…all systems should have been: “GO!”

First step: Empty all ice out of icemaker. After all, it could simply be jammed. It wouldn’t explain the “no water” situation but, oh well.

No luck.

Push a few buttons, open and close the door (like that is going to somehow help), converse about who pushed what button and why (a polite blame-game), open and close the door again.

And then from my vast experience of sitting in front of computers that have a tendency to sometimes stop working for no apparent reason (I’m sure you all have experienced that frustratingly frozen screen), I suggested: “Let’s turn it off, unplug it, let it sit for a moment, plug it back in, and see if it reboots.”

Worked like a charm—ice and water flowed freely.

Lesson learned: Sometimes you just need to unplug, reconnect, and reboot. Works with more than just refrigerators!

Image: istockphoto.com

10 Spring Maintenance Tips for Property Managers (and homeowners)

It's that time of year again, time to start thinking about your Spring clean-up projects!

1. Check all gutters and down spouts for blockage and make sure water is draining properly.
2. Power-wash wood decks, sidewalks, and driveways to remove slippery moss.
3. Replace rotten deck boards and inspect stairs for wear.
4. Tighten or replace handrails on stairways, inside and outside of house.
5. Check caulking around shower and tubs for wear - replace if worn and/or discolored.
6. Make sure dryer vent is clean and air is moving through.
7. Remove all tree limbs near roof, because they can cause damage and invite insects and rodents.
8. Seal all holes in roof eves, siding, anywhere rodents make their home.
9. Clean up all junk and blackberry bush areas where rats live.
10. Advise tenants not leave dog/cat or bird food outside overnight. This is to prevent attracting rodents.

If you need help with any of these seasonal tasks - please contact Nick at nick@liamshandyman.com