Maintenance Troubleshooting Guide
Before submitting a maintenance request, please review the troubleshooting tips below. Many common issues can be resolved quickly without the need for a service call.
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HVAC / Air Conditioning Not Working
Please check the following:
- Ensure the thermostat is set to “Cool” or “Heat”
- Replace thermostat batteries if needed
- Confirm the temperature setting is correct
- Check that the circuit breaker has not tripped
- Replace dirty HVAC filters
- Make sure all vents are open and unobstructed
Helpful Tips:
- Replace HVAC filters every 1–3 months
- Keep furniture away from vents for better airflow
- During hot weather, setting the thermostat extremely low will not cool the home faster
- Keep doors and windows closed while the system is running
Important:
If the unit is frozen, turn the system OFF and allow it to thaw for several hours before requesting service.
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Garbage Disposal Not Working
Please Try:
- Press the reset button located underneath the disposal
- Ensure the disposal is turned OFF before troubleshooting
- Check for a tripped breaker
- Never place hands inside the disposal
- Use an Allen wrench underneath the unit (if applicable) to manually loosen jams
Helpful Tips:
- Run cold water while using the disposal
- Excess food should be scraped and thrown into garbage and not into the garbage disposa
- Periodically grind ice cubes and citrus peels to help reduce odors
Do not put the following into the disposal:
- Grease or oil
- Bones
- Coffee grounds
- Pasta or rice
- Fibrous foods
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Sink or Tub Draining Slowly
Please Try:
- Remove visible hair or debris
- Use a plunger if appropriate
- Flush with hot water
- Try a mild drain cleaner or vinegar/baking soda solution
Helpful Tips:
- Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris
- Avoid rinsing grease or food scraps down kitchen sinks
- Clean drains regularly to help prevent buildup
Do not put the following into the disposal:
- Pouring grease down drains
- Flushing wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products
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Toilet Clogged
Please check the following:
- Use a plunger
- Allow the toilet water level to settle before plunging again
- Avoid flushing multiple times continuously
Helpful Tips:
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste
- Keep a plunger accessible in each bathroom
- Flush in moderation if the plumbing system is older
Important:
If the toilet is overflowing, turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet immediately.
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No Power to Outlets or Appliances
Please Check:
- Circuit breakers
- GFCI outlets (usually with “Reset” button)
- Whether other appliances are overloading the circui
Helpful Tips:
- Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris
- Avoid rinsing grease or food scraps down kitchen sinks
- Clean drains regularly to help prevent buildup
Common GFCI Locations:
- Pouring grease down drains
- Flushing wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products
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Refrigerator Not Cooling Properly
Please Check:
- Temperature settings
- Ensure vents inside are not blocked
- Clean dust from coils if accessible
- Confirm the door seals tightly
- Avoid overpacking the refrigerator
Helpful Tips:
- Allow hot food to cool before placing it inside
- Keep the refrigerator reasonably full for efficiency, but not overcrowded
- Minimize opening the door frequently
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Smoke Detector Beeping
Please Check:
- Replace batteries
- Press the reset/test button
- Check for dust buildup
Helpful Tips:
- Test smoke detectors monthly
- Replace batteries at least once per year unless sealed battery units are installed
- Notify management immediately if detectors continue malfunctioning
Important:
Do not disconnect smoke or carbon monoxide detectors.
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Water Leak
Please do the following immediately:
- Shut off the water supply if possible
- Place towels or buckets to minimize damage
- Report leaks promptly
Helpful Tips:
- Periodically check under sinks for moisture
- Report small leaks early before they become larger issues
- Avoid hanging items from plumbing pipes or fixtures
Important:
If flooding is occurring, contact maintenance immediately.
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Sewer or Drain Odor
Please do the following:
- Run water in unused sinks/tubs for several minutes
- Use a mild drain cleaner
- Check for visible standing water or backups
Helpful Tips:
- Regularly running water in unused drains helps keep drain traps full
- Keep drains clean and free of food or hair buildup
- Odors that worsen over time should be reported promptly
Note:
Intermittent odors may be caused by dry drain traps or partial blockages.
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Pilot Light / Water Heater Issues
Please Check:
- Whether the breaker is on (electric units)
- If gas service is active
- Manufacturer instructions posted on the unit
Helpful Tips:
- Avoid storing items too close to the water heater
- Report inconsistent hot water temperatures promptly
- Draining sediment periodically may improve efficiency (performed by professionals)
Important:
If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and contact the PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
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Pest Control Tips
Please help prevent pests by:
- Keeping food sealed
- Taking trash out regularly
- Avoiding standing water
- Reporting leaks promptly
- Maintaining cleanliness
Helpful Tips:
- Do not leave pet food out overnight
- Keep cardboard storage to a minimum when possible
- Seal small food crumbs and spills promptly
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When to Submit a Maintenance Request
Please submit a maintenance request if:
- Troubleshooting does not resolve the issue
- The issue is worsening
- There is property damage
- The repair involves plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or safety concerns
Helpful Tips:
- Include photos or videos when submitting requests
- Provide detailed descriptions of noises, leaks, smells, or error messages
- Mention when the issue started and whether it is intermittent or constant
For emergencies involving flooding, fire, gas leaks, or major safety hazards, contact 911 for emergency services first if necessary, then notify property management immediately.

