Heating and Cooling
Non-Operational Unit
Make sure all switches, fuses, circuit breakers are on.  Most furnaces have an “on/off” switch near the side.  Sometimes that switch will get bumped or accidentally turned off.  Check to make sure that switch is set to the “on” position. 

Furnace / AC turning on/off
Normally, this is the result of a thermostat failing or the batteries weakening in the thermostat.  If you have a digital thermostat and it was a generic brand from a retail or department store, it may need to be replaced.  First try replacing the batteries (even if the indicator shows the batteries are good).  If that doesn’t work, try detaching the thermostat from its base and re-attach it.  Sometimes the contacts get dirty and just need a better connection.  Removing and re-attaching will often help. 

A Clean Furnace Filter
Gently slide your furnace filter out every 30 days. Inspect it for dirt and dust because a dirty filter means your furnace has to work harder to provide the right air temperature in the home. Some filters can be cleaned with a vacuum or soft brush. Other filters are designed to be replaced when dirty. When in doubt, toss it out!

Clean and Clear
It’s very important to keep leaves, grass, limbs and other objects away from the outdoor air conditioning unit. This simple maintenance item will help your system work correctly and extend its useful life. Make sure any drain areas are free of debris. Empty or clean out moisture regularly. Make sure the unit is level and operating with relatively little noise. Keep exterior of unit free of dirt and debris.

Free Ventilation
Make sure the vent system of your furnace is intact and any flue joints are secure. A short visual inspection of your furnace should reveal any dirt and rust issues. If you have questions or doubts, call Blue Stream for a professional inspection.

Plumbing
Winter Protection
Make sure any water lines and drains are protected from cold air by insulation. The best way to ensure that lines don’t freeze is to run some water through them on a regular basis. If you have concerns, call us and we’ll be glad to help.

Garbage Disposal
Two keys to proper operation of a garbage disposal: Use cold water, not hot water; Run water and the disposal unit for a few extra seconds to make sure the garbage is completely ground up. Grind a small amount of lemon peel to freshen up disposal odor.

Clean Shower Heads
Homeowners sometimes think there is something seriously wrong when they don’t get good pressure from their shower head. In many cases, it’s necessary to just remove the minerals that have built up. You can clean those small holes with a pin. You can also take the face plate off and soak it for several hours or overnight in vinegar. Be sure to clean it thoroughly before putting it back on.

Clogged Drains
You can prevent some clogged-drain problems by making sure nothing but liquid goes down those drains! But there is no guarantee that kitchen drains will remain clog-free over time. Grease buildup causes food particles to further clog the drain. It may be best to call for professional help. If you want to remedy the problem on your own, focus on the trap under the sink first.

Humidity and Air Quality
Mold, Mildew Etc.
You can do a lot to prevent mold, mildew and excess moisture in the home by using a humidifier. Keep it clean following the manufacturer’s recommendations? If you don’t have ventilation fans in the bathroom and kitchen, it might be wise to install units in each location. This will help take moist air out of the house.

Clean Air
Use air filtration units to keep airborne dust, bacteria and other particles under control. This will vastly improve the quality of indoor air, in combination with a good dehumidifier.