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Winter is coming, as it does every year.

What does this mean for Phoenix, Gilbert, Mesa, and the rest of the East Valley?

Not much, really. Lower temperatures, but nothing too unpleasant. We likely won’t freeze. We probably won’t see snow or ice or even much rain.

In this area, we’re fortunate not to have to worry about blizzards and ice. We might see snow-capped mountains in the distance while enjoying fairly moderate temperatures.

This doesn’t mean we’re going to forget our winter maintenance tasks, especially at rental properties.

If you’re renting out a home in Phoenix, maintaining that home is likely a priority. If you’re smart, you’re inv...

We are now experiencing a nationwide shortage of air conditioning units and parts.

As temperatures rise in the Valley, so are concerns over a shortage of air conditioners and AC supplies. It's due to disruptions in the global supply chain, according to Penguin Air, Plumbing and Electrical's General Manager, Jay Kline.

At this time there are not solid timelines but many in the industry estimate equipment is still going to be difficult to get over the next several months, if not through the end of the year.

Effective January 1, 2020, Freon will be illegal to import or manufacture in the US.

In 2010, the EPA banned the production of any new systems that used R-22 units due to harmful effects on the ozone layer, and a complete ban on manufacturing and importing starting January 1, 2020.

So what does this mean for you? First, you need to know if your current system is using R-22 Freon. If it does, any repairs related to Freon after January 1^st will not be permitted and a replacement would be required. If you’ve purchased a new HVAC system since 2010, you should be fine. However, an older unit you can check on the sticker on the side. If it says “R-22 or HCFC-22” that wou...

As an owner of an investment property, it’s important to know the lifespan of certain things in your home. This helps plan for the future when these large monetary repairs are needed.

HVAC System: Many homeowners decide to replace with a newer system after about 10-15 years, but the average life expectancy of an HVAC system is about 15-20 years. Arizona HVAC can be on the lower end of the lifespan due to the constant use.

Exterior Paint: Stucco surfaces typically last ten years, though wood surfaces typically only last five to seven before it begins to fade/deteriorate. Using neutral tones will help the paint last longer and less noticeable fading.

Water Heater:...

Change AC Filters:

Change out your AC filters every 30 days; ensure they are installed correctly and are the correct size; cheap isn’t always best (take into consideration pets, amount of people, allergens, etc)

Clean out your dryer vent:

Unplug your dryer (if it’s gas, shut off the gas); pull unit out from the wall and disconnect the clamp from the hose; with a vacuum hose and dryer vent brush, clean out the opening of the dryer as high up as you can go; clean the hose in the same manner; clean out the lint trap with a toothbrush under hot, soapy water; be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly before putting back into dryer slot.

Clean Refrigerator Coils:

Pull fridge away fr...

Clogged drains and backed up/blocked pipes can easily escalate into major problems. A clogged drain can cause slow drainage, corrosion, flooding and potentially sewage backup. Here are some of the most common plumbing clogs and how to prevent them.

1. 
   

   HAIR

   
   

Hair is the number one cause of clogs in showers, bathtubs and bathroom sinks. To reduce or even eliminate this issue, install drain filters/strainers to catch hair but allow water to run through.

2. 
   

   GREASE

   
   

As you may know, when hot grease cools, it turns to a solid wax-like substance. Avoid ever pouring any grease, oil or meat broth down your drains.

3. 
   

   FOOD

   
   

Even small particles can build up over time and become a major issue. Make sure you ha...

Quick and easy way to clean your microwave in just minutes!

1. 
   

   Fill a microwave-safe bowl with one cup water and one cup white vinegar

   
   


2. 
   

   Let cook in your microwave for one to two minutes

   
   


3. 
   

   Keep the door closed for about 3 minutes to steam up

   
   


4. 
   

   Carefully remove the bowl (use a potholder or towel since it will be hot)

   
   


5. 
   

   Wipe off bottom, sides, and roof of the microwave with a paper towel or cloth

   
   


6. 
   

   Hand wash the rotating plate with soap and water or even through the dishwasher

   
   


7. 
   

   Clean exterior buttons, handle and display with a paper towel or cloth with multipurpose cleaner or soap and water

   
   


8. 
   

   Replace rotating plate back in the microwave

   
   

How often should you clean your oven? A general rule of thumb is to deep clean it every three months. Of course, general cleaning should be done after each use.

1. 
   

   First, you want to clean the grates

   
   
   
   
   • 
     

     Remove all of the grates

     
     
   
   
   • 
     

     Fill a large tub or bathtub with hot water and some all-purpose cleaner (let them soak, the longer the better)

     
     
   
   
   • 
     

     Remove grates and scrub off residue

     
     
   
   
   
   

2. 
   

   Steam The Inside

   
   
   
   
   • 
     

     Wipe or vacuum any loose debris once grates are removed

     
     
   
   
   • 
     

     Put back bottom grate and place a large metal baking sheet or dish filled with water and a ½ cup of white vinegar

     
     
   
   
   • 
     

     Heat over to 350 degrees and let the water bubble

     
     
   
   
   • 
     

     Once bubbling, turn off over, carefully spray inner surfaces with a cleaner

     
     
   
   
   • 
     

     Close the doo...

The refrigerator is one of the hardest working appliances in your home and it’s the one appliance that never gets a rest. It’s very important to make sure it is cleaned thoroughly

1. 
   

   Take everything out

   
   

• 
  

  Take everything out of the refrigerator and place them in an empty space so you can easily sort through it.

  
  

2. 
   

   Throw away any old, moldy, inedible or questionable food

   
   

• 
  

  Check expiration and “use by” date, and dispose of items you are unlikely to use

  
  

3. 
   

   Remove shelving and drawers

   
   

• 
  

  Clean them out by hand and wait to put back in refrigerator until it’s been cleaned out

  
  

4. 
   

   Wipe down interior of refrigerator with preferred cleaning solution

   
   

• 
  

  Avoid strongly scented soaps or cleaner, as f...