ARTICLE
By Jerry L’Ecuyer, Buffalo Maintenance and Paul Rhodes, NAAEI 'Tis the season for more resident work-orders related to the holidays. Maintenance technicians are recommended to check each stove and oven for proper operation. Many residents use their ovens only during this time of year. Blown-out pilot lights are often the cause for a non-working stove. Have tips for working a self-cleaning oven handy—or pass them out ahead of the season. This time of year sees a higher-than-normal use of the plumbing so it may be a good idea to snake out or hydro jet the community’s main plumbing lines. Sending a note to each resident about the proper use of the garbage disposal could help reduce work orders. Note what residents should and should not put down the disposal unit. Items to include banana peels, potato skins, coffee grounds and any stringy food. Also, remind them to turn on the cold water (more effective than hot water) before using the disposer and to put small amounts of food in the disposal at a time. Instruct residents to not use the disposer as a trash can, turning it on only when full, because it will clog. When inside a resident’s apartment, pay attention to lights on holiday decorations for possible dangers (tripping hazard, overheating and/or overload). Alert residents about holiday office hours, package handling policies and give them a refresher about what meets the definition of a maintenance emergency.