EMPLOYEE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Your furnace will soon be running full time, so we would like to remind you of a few maintenance tips for the Fall and Winter months.

FURNACE FILTERS - Furnace filters need to be changed regularly to prevent clogs and damages to the system, especially during colder months. We recommend replacing the filter every 30 days. Furnace filters are located on the main air intake next to the furnace. You can purchase multi-packs of filters from most retailers such as, Home Depot, Lowes, WalMart, and Meijer; filter sizes vary, so be sure to check the existing filter or filter area for the correct size.

Please note that you will be responsible for the repair/replacement of the heating/cooling system if damage results from clogged or missing furnace filters.

*IF YOU CAN NOT LOCATE YOUR FURNACE FILTER, PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE FOR ASSISTANCE.

THERMOSTAT BATTERIES - If you have not done so recently, there is a good chance that your thermostat may need new batteries. Dead batteries can prevent your furnace from being turned on, so please be sure to check the indicator screen on your thermostat if you run into problems turning your furnace on.

SMOKE DETECTOR BATTERIES -  Now is as good a time as any to check the batteries in your smoke detectors! Please make sure that ALL smoke detectors have working batteries in them and are fully operational.

If you have any questions, please contact our office at (734) 287-6619.

Who says it's not the right time for outdoor grilling?  Grilling can be enjoyed year round, if you are careful.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, gas and charcoal grills cause more than 8,000 house fires each year. Before firing up the grill, homeowners should consider these safety tips:

• Grills should be located no closer than 10 feet from any structure - including your house. Never use a grill under a porch, deck, overhang, carport, or in a garage. Make sure the grill rests on a stable surface and can't be tipped over.
• Never use a propane or charcoal grill indoors.
• Check hoses and connections on gas grills periodically. Replace any cracked or brittle hoses before using the grill. Propane cylinders should never be stored inside a garage or other structure at any time.
• Start charcoal fires using a chimney starter instead of charcoal fluid. Not only is a chimney starter safer, but your meal will taste better. If charcoal fluid is used, never add it to the coals once the fire has been lit.
• Once the grill is lit, never leave it unattended. It can take just a few seconds for a serious fire to erupt.
• While lighting and cooking on the grill, do not wear clothes that are loose-fitting or that have wide sleeves that could catch fire. Use long-handled utensils to handle food while cooking. Wear close-toed shoes while at the grill.
• Control flare ups by lowering the heat on a gas grill. On charcoal grills, remove the food from the grill and distribute the coals more evenly. If necessary, a flare up can be put out with water from a spray bottle, but remove food from the grill first to avoid smoke contamination.
• To help prevent grease fires, remove any accumulated grease and residue from inside the lid of the grill at least every 5-6 uses. Baking soda can be used to extinguish a grease fire still contained within the grill unit.
• Always keep young children and pets away from the grill during and after cooking. The grill's exterior can remain hot for a long time.