Home
Keep appliances in peak condition
Hot, hot, hot. Heat stress affects you, your family, animals, plants and most of your household appliances. Remember when the monsoons hit, dust can get everywhere and the humidity that comes with it can increase mold, mildew and odors in your home. Here are some tips to keep your appliances in peak condition and the nasty affects of this weather at bay. What are some of these benefits? When the appliances are working at their best, you save money on utility bills. Learn other tips from the ToFixIt Phoenix, appliance experts to help you save money on costly appliance repairs, later down the road. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/appliance-repair/
Your refrigerator, freezer and icemaker are working real hard. Help them out or they could be hardly working. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/plumbing/
1. Vacuum the coils to increase airflow and keep internal heat down.
2. Change the freezer, icemakers and water filters to reduce bacteria growth and assure the purest, best tasting water and ice in your home.
3. Keep baking soda in the refrigerator to absorb odors.
4. Check the door seals/gaskets on your freezer and refrigerator doors. If the gaskets are ripped or damaged, they need to be replaced, according to the repair experts.
5. Your kitchen disposer can use the old baking soda from your refrigerator to flush out odors. Use ice to clear out any deposits in the disposal.
Your air conditioner/heat pump also needs the filters replaced every month but more often during the monsoons.
The A/C ToFixIt, Phoenix experts state,” that’ll keep some of that monsoon dust out of the house.” http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/air-conditioning/
If you turn off your air conditioner unit, do not turn it back on right away. Wait at least 10 minutes to allow the air conditioner refrigerant gas pressure in the system to equalize. This extends your air conditioners compressor’s lifespan. In the event of a power outage, you really should turn the air conditioner off to avoid this scenario.
Your washer and dryer can benefit from your attention, as well.
The appliance repair experts suggest that you can prevent strange odors in your clothes washer and dryer by running vinegar in your washer once a week. This is almost critical in the newer washer machines. The Phoenix, washer and dryer experts recommend that you stay on top of the lint in your dryer and the vent. Not only will the dryer perform more efficiently, but it may prevent potential fires caused by lint buildup in your home dryer. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/dryer-vent-cleaning-repair/
Your kitchen dishwasher would also like some of that vinegar weekly.
The dishwasher and appliance repair expert recommend vinegar. It helps to clear out hard water deposits on the spray arms and it will smell better, too. Don’t forget to clean your dishwasher filters. If your dishes are not getting clean enough, you have some options: If the kids are home, save on energy costs and give them something to do, make them hand wash the dishes.
Call (602) 863-4948 or visit the website at: http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/home/
to learn more tips or schedule an appointment.
Refinish your bathtub
Most people agree that nothing will date a home more than an avocado green bathtub, pink tile or “butcher block” Formica kitchen countertops. It not only dates the home for all to see, but it also dramatically reduces the value. Kitchen and bath remodels are the two best investments a homeowner can make. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/
The question is, how much can the homeowner afford and what will be the return on their investment. A growing number of Phoenix, homeowners are finding a less expensive alternative; they are opting to refinish their bathtubs, tile surrounds, vanity tops and even floors to update the look of their bathrooms. You can change colors, repair damaged surfaces, or even chips and create a new look without costly and messy removal and replacement of a brand new bathroom tub. The process works equally well on porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, laminate and cultured marble surfaces and can save a homeowner up to 75% over the cost of replacement.
Adding value is especially important if the homeowner is looking to sell. In a buyer’s market, it is critical that the home “show well” immediately. Nothing will send a prospective buyer out the door more than a yellow bathtub with black tile accents, or an orange or green Formica countertop. However, the homeowner can project the right image without investing more than they can get in return with quality surface refinishing. For example, a homeowner is more likely to get a better return on their investment after spending $1,200 to $1,500 to refinish their kitchen countertop, than spending $10,000 to $15,000 on a solid surface replacement. It can cost $2,500 to $3,000 to replace a yellow bathtub, but only $450 - $550 to change the color and have it look like new.
The experts offer advice for homeowners looking for an affordable bathroom and kitchen remodeling solutions.
• Establish a budget; look at magazines and visit home improvement stores for ideas and the newest trends for bathtubs, showers and bathroom or kitchen countertops.
• Consider how much time you want to devote to the project.
• Traditional removal and replacement remodeling almost always takes more time than you anticipate.
• Another advantage of surface refinishing is that you will know exactly when the project will start and end.
• Traditional removal and replacement of a bathtub and tile surround can take two months or more depending on the scope of the project.
With surface refinishing, a bathtub can be refinished in the color of your choice, and the tile surround in a Natural Accents™ stone finish for typically under $1,200. Add a vanity top and a sink and the total cost adds up to only about $1,700. Instead of taking a week or two, this process will take two days or less.
The Phoenix ToFixIt bathtub and shower repair and finishing expert company states, “countertops are the new wow factor for homeowners,” people want the multicolor look and the features of stone. These options can provide both at a tremendous cost savings with Natural Accents." Natural Accents™ works equally well on laminate, tile, Corian™ and cultured marble surfaces. It's a custom look in which the homeowner can choose flat, satin or even a semi-gloss finish. They can have it smooth or with a slight texture.
A Natural Accents™ countertop is a very affordable way to create a kitchen makeover without breaking the bank. A Natural Accents refinished vanity, looks like it is granite. It looks that good.
Homeowners have embraced the concept of creating an upgraded look for their kitchens and bathrooms, while saving them money on the removal and replacement of bathroom fixtures, vanity tops and kitchen counters.
To learn more or schedule your appointment to get a new update look in your bathroom or kitchen at a fraction of the normal remodel project, contact ToFixIt at (602) 863-4948 to find the bathtub, shower repair company in your area or visit the website at: http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/bathtub-shower-repair-refinish/
Most people agree that nothing will date a home more than an avocado green bathtub, pink tile or “butcher block” Formica kitchen countertops. It not only dates the home for all to see, but it also dramatically reduces the value. Kitchen and bath remodels are the two best investments a homeowner can make. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/
The question is, how much can the homeowner afford and what will be the return on their investment. A growing number of Phoenix, homeowners are finding a less expensive alternative; they are opting to refinish their bathtubs, tile surrounds, vanity tops and even floors to update the look of their bathrooms. You can change colors, repair damaged surfaces, or even chips and create a new look without costly and messy removal and replacement of a brand new bathroom tub. The process works equally well on porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, laminate and cultured marble surfaces and can save a homeowner up to 75% over the cost of replacement.
Adding value is especially important if the homeowner is looking to sell. In a buyer’s market, it is critical that the home “show well” immediately. Nothing will send a prospective buyer out the door more than a yellow bathtub with black tile accents, or an orange or green Formica countertop. However, the homeowner can project the right image without investing more than they can get in return with quality surface refinishing. For example, a homeowner is more likely to get a better return on their investment after spending $1,200 to $1,500 to refinish their kitchen countertop, than spending $10,000 to $15,000 on a solid surface replacement. It can cost $2,500 to $3,000 to replace a yellow bathtub, but only $450 - $550 to change the color and have it look like new.
The experts offer advice for homeowners looking for an affordable bathroom and kitchen remodeling solutions.
• Establish a budget; look at magazines and visit home improvement stores for ideas and the newest trends for bathtubs, showers and bathroom or kitchen countertops.
• Consider how much time you want to devote to the project.
• Traditional removal and replacement remodeling almost always takes more time than you anticipate.
• Another advantage of surface refinishing is that you will know exactly when the project will start and end.
• Traditional removal and replacement of a bathtub and tile surround can take two months or more depending on the scope of the project.
With surface refinishing, a bathtub can be refinished in the color of your choice, and the tile surround in a Natural Accents™ stone finish for typically under $1,200. Add a vanity top and a sink and the total cost adds up to only about $1,700. Instead of taking a week or two, this process will take two days or less.
The Phoenix ToFixIt bathtub and shower repair and finishing expert company states, “countertops are the new wow factor for homeowners,” people want the multicolor look and the features of stone. These options can provide both at a tremendous cost savings with Natural Accents." Natural Accents™ works equally well on laminate, tile, Corian™ and cultured marble surfaces. It's a custom look in which the homeowner can choose flat, satin or even a semi-gloss finish. They can have it smooth or with a slight texture.
A Natural Accents™ countertop is a very affordable way to create a kitchen makeover without breaking the bank. A Natural Accents refinished vanity, looks like it is granite. It looks that good.
Homeowners have embraced the concept of creating an upgraded look for their kitchens and bathrooms, while saving them money on the removal and replacement of bathroom fixtures, vanity tops and kitchen counters.
To learn more or schedule your appointment to get a new update look in your bathroom or kitchen at a fraction of the normal remodel project, contact ToFixIt at (602) 863-4948 to find the bathtub, shower repair company in your area or visit the website at: http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/bathtub-shower-repair-refinish/
Repair don’t replace your carpet
According to the Phoenix, ToFixIt carpet repair experts, they will often get a call from a frantic homeowner or renter who has just discovered what their pet has done to the carpet. They have seen damage from ferrets, monkeys, cats, dogs, birds and half the circus. Pets can chew, scratch and otherwise damage your carpet. Things get dropped and spilled and are not easily cleanable like red wine, bleach or burn marks from candles or cigarettes to just name a few.
The experts recognize understand that your pets are part of your family; life wouldn’t be quite the same without them. Dogs and cats often have separation anxiety and they can dig or chew holes in carpets. Cats also have the natural instinct to scratch and often make the perfect scratching post out of a spot of your carpet on the stairs or of their choosing.
The professional, technicians have a playbook of fixes that can be utilized for your carpet repair. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/
These carpet repairs can be the aftermath of pet damage, a bleach spot, a burn mark, a pet or human stain, food stain, rust stain or anything that requires a patch. This may often require you to contact the experts. They have perfected the technique of repairing using permanent sections. The carpet repair experts strategically section out the damaged carpet and patch in a new piece of matching carpet so it looks like it belongs. If you do not have any new carpet remnants they can take a piece from an inconspicuous place, in your home, such as the back of a closet. The expert carpet repair company trucks will often be stocked with a supply of extra types of carpet remnants, in some of the most common weights and thicknesses. Many will often even have carpet padding on hand just in case. They utilize the matching carpet, to patch the damaged, ripped, stained, rippled, snagged, burned or unraveled area and can use the truck stock carpet remnants, to patch the closet or inconspicuous area that the patch was removed to replace the damaged area. Your carpet repair specialist utilize seaming tape, a seaming iron and latex the edges to perform miniature carpet surgeries on a daily basis.
Occasionally, carpet re-stretching is necessary if the damage is at doorways or a threshold that meets tile, wood or laminate flooring. This is not a problem for the expert technicians. The professional should be prepared to do this type of repair.
Do you know that they can often repair Berber carpet?
There are three main reasons carpet can become loose and develop ripples;
Contact the ToFixIt carpet repair experts, carpet repair experts to learn more great tips and schedule your repairs today. Visit the website at: http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/carpet-repair/ or call 602-863-4948.
According to the Phoenix, ToFixIt carpet repair experts, they will often get a call from a frantic homeowner or renter who has just discovered what their pet has done to the carpet. They have seen damage from ferrets, monkeys, cats, dogs, birds and half the circus. Pets can chew, scratch and otherwise damage your carpet. Things get dropped and spilled and are not easily cleanable like red wine, bleach or burn marks from candles or cigarettes to just name a few.
The experts recognize understand that your pets are part of your family; life wouldn’t be quite the same without them. Dogs and cats often have separation anxiety and they can dig or chew holes in carpets. Cats also have the natural instinct to scratch and often make the perfect scratching post out of a spot of your carpet on the stairs or of their choosing.
The professional, technicians have a playbook of fixes that can be utilized for your carpet repair. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/
These carpet repairs can be the aftermath of pet damage, a bleach spot, a burn mark, a pet or human stain, food stain, rust stain or anything that requires a patch. This may often require you to contact the experts. They have perfected the technique of repairing using permanent sections. The carpet repair experts strategically section out the damaged carpet and patch in a new piece of matching carpet so it looks like it belongs. If you do not have any new carpet remnants they can take a piece from an inconspicuous place, in your home, such as the back of a closet. The expert carpet repair company trucks will often be stocked with a supply of extra types of carpet remnants, in some of the most common weights and thicknesses. Many will often even have carpet padding on hand just in case. They utilize the matching carpet, to patch the damaged, ripped, stained, rippled, snagged, burned or unraveled area and can use the truck stock carpet remnants, to patch the closet or inconspicuous area that the patch was removed to replace the damaged area. Your carpet repair specialist utilize seaming tape, a seaming iron and latex the edges to perform miniature carpet surgeries on a daily basis.
Occasionally, carpet re-stretching is necessary if the damage is at doorways or a threshold that meets tile, wood or laminate flooring. This is not a problem for the expert technicians. The professional should be prepared to do this type of repair.
Do you know that they can often repair Berber carpet?
- Berber carpet is a looped pile carpet that is often used for its durability. In the mill, Berber carpet is woven using a single strand of carpet fiber or yarn as opposed to cut pile carpet that is woven using individual tufts of yarn. Because of the way Berber carpet is made, one snag can cause it to unravel like a sweater, exposing row upon row of bare carpet, that is unsightly as well as a danger in a home or in a commercial space.
- Modern vacuum cleaners, pet claws, shoes such as heels can easily cause snags in your Berber carpet causing damage to your beautiful carpet.
- Berber carpet repairs require real technical expertise and creativity. They either have to surgically weave in new carpet fiber loops for a few rows or if the damage is severe, they can section out the damaged carpet and replace it with a matching section provided by the home owner.
- If your Berber carpet is patterned, even more technical skill and expertise is required ensuring the replacement is fully integrated with the carpet pattern, so that the repair is unnoticeable.
There are three main reasons carpet can become loose and develop ripples;
- The first and most common reason you may need your carpet re-stretch is the result of poor or improper installation. Correct carpet installation involves power stretching of carpet, pulling it drum-tight from wall to wall. The Phoenix, experts use a power stretcher to do this. Many carpet installers rely solely on a knee kicker. But, knee kickers alone are not designed to stretch the carpet, only to set the carpet on the tack strip. So the carpet appears to be well-stretched, but as you walk across it, play on it, move furniture around and otherwise “live” on it, the beautiful carpet quickly gets rippled and looks loose.
- Another reason the experts may have to power-stretch carpet is because the tack-strips start coming loose. This happens on occasion. They can re-set the tack strips and then power-stretch the carpet back to drum-tight which is the industry standard.
- The third reason for carpet ripples is owner error and this common mistake. Vacationers and valley snowbirds leave their air conditioners turned off or above ninety degrees for extended periods of time or seasons. In the heat of an Arizona summer, this is a death sentence for your wall-to-wall carpet. The heat builds up inside of your home similar to a parked car with all the windows up. This essentially relaxes your carpet making it wrinkle and ripple. Carpet has latex backing, so it is extremely sensitive to heat. The Phoenix carpet repair specialists recommend leaving your air conditioner set at eighty-five degrees or lower.
Contact the ToFixIt carpet repair experts, carpet repair experts to learn more great tips and schedule your repairs today. Visit the website at: http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/carpet-repair/ or call 602-863-4948.
Repair don’t replace your carpet
According to the Phoenix, ToFixIt carpet repair experts, they will often get a call from a frantic homeowner or renter who has just discovered what their pet has done to the carpet. They have seen damage from ferrets, monkeys, cats, dogs, birds and half the circus. Pets can chew, scratch and otherwise damage your carpet. Things get dropped and spilled and are not easily cleanable like red wine, bleach or burn marks from candles or cigarettes to just name a few.
The experts recognize understand that your pets are part of your family; life wouldn’t be quite the same without them. Dogs and cats often have separation anxiety and they can dig or chew holes in carpets. Cats also have the natural instinct to scratch and often make the perfect scratching post out of a spot of your carpet on the stairs or of their choosing.
The professional, technicians have a playbook of fixes that can be utilized for your carpet repair. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/
These carpet repairs can be the aftermath of pet damage, a bleach spot, a burn mark, a pet or human stain, food stain, rust stain or anything that requires a patch. This may often require you to contact the experts. They have perfected the technique of repairing using permanent sections. The carpet repair experts strategically section out the damaged carpet and patch in a new piece of matching carpet so it looks like it belongs. If you do not have any new carpet remnants they can take a piece from an inconspicuous place, in your home, such as the back of a closet. The expert carpet repair company trucks will often be stocked with a supply of extra types of carpet remnants, in some of the most common weights and thicknesses. Many will often even have carpet padding on hand just in case. They utilize the matching carpet, to patch the damaged, ripped, stained, rippled, snagged, burned or unraveled area and can use the truck stock carpet remnants, to patch the closet or inconspicuous area that the patch was removed to replace the damaged area. Your carpet repair specialist utilize seaming tape, a seaming iron and latex the edges to perform miniature carpet surgeries on a daily basis.
Occasionally, carpet re-stretching is necessary if the damage is at doorways or a threshold that meets tile, wood or laminate flooring. This is not a problem for the expert technicians. The professional should be prepared to do this type of repair.
Do you know that they can often repair Berber carpet?
There are three main reasons carpet can become loose and develop ripples;
Contact the ToFixIt carpet repair experts, carpet repair experts to learn more great tips and schedule your repairs today. Visit the website at: http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/carpet-repair/ or call 602-863-4948.
According to the Phoenix, ToFixIt carpet repair experts, they will often get a call from a frantic homeowner or renter who has just discovered what their pet has done to the carpet. They have seen damage from ferrets, monkeys, cats, dogs, birds and half the circus. Pets can chew, scratch and otherwise damage your carpet. Things get dropped and spilled and are not easily cleanable like red wine, bleach or burn marks from candles or cigarettes to just name a few.
The experts recognize understand that your pets are part of your family; life wouldn’t be quite the same without them. Dogs and cats often have separation anxiety and they can dig or chew holes in carpets. Cats also have the natural instinct to scratch and often make the perfect scratching post out of a spot of your carpet on the stairs or of their choosing.
The professional, technicians have a playbook of fixes that can be utilized for your carpet repair. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/
These carpet repairs can be the aftermath of pet damage, a bleach spot, a burn mark, a pet or human stain, food stain, rust stain or anything that requires a patch. This may often require you to contact the experts. They have perfected the technique of repairing using permanent sections. The carpet repair experts strategically section out the damaged carpet and patch in a new piece of matching carpet so it looks like it belongs. If you do not have any new carpet remnants they can take a piece from an inconspicuous place, in your home, such as the back of a closet. The expert carpet repair company trucks will often be stocked with a supply of extra types of carpet remnants, in some of the most common weights and thicknesses. Many will often even have carpet padding on hand just in case. They utilize the matching carpet, to patch the damaged, ripped, stained, rippled, snagged, burned or unraveled area and can use the truck stock carpet remnants, to patch the closet or inconspicuous area that the patch was removed to replace the damaged area. Your carpet repair specialist utilize seaming tape, a seaming iron and latex the edges to perform miniature carpet surgeries on a daily basis.
Occasionally, carpet re-stretching is necessary if the damage is at doorways or a threshold that meets tile, wood or laminate flooring. This is not a problem for the expert technicians. The professional should be prepared to do this type of repair.
Do you know that they can often repair Berber carpet?
- Berber carpet is a looped pile carpet that is often used for its durability. In the mill, Berber carpet is woven using a single strand of carpet fiber or yarn as opposed to cut pile carpet that is woven using individual tufts of yarn. Because of the way Berber carpet is made, one snag can cause it to unravel like a sweater, exposing row upon row of bare carpet, that is unsightly as well as a danger in a home or in a commercial space.
- Modern vacuum cleaners, pet claws, shoes such as heels can easily cause snags in your Berber carpet causing damage to your beautiful carpet.
- Berber carpet repairs require real technical expertise and creativity. They either have to surgically weave in new carpet fiber loops for a few rows or if the damage is severe, they can section out the damaged carpet and replace it with a matching section provided by the home owner.
- If your Berber carpet is patterned, even more technical skill and expertise is required ensuring the replacement is fully integrated with the carpet pattern, so that the repair is unnoticeable.
There are three main reasons carpet can become loose and develop ripples;
- The first and most common reason you may need your carpet re-stretch is the result of poor or improper installation. Correct carpet installation involves power stretching of carpet, pulling it drum-tight from wall to wall. The Phoenix, experts use a power stretcher to do this. Many carpet installers rely solely on a knee kicker. But, knee kickers alone are not designed to stretch the carpet, only to set the carpet on the tack strip. So the carpet appears to be well-stretched, but as you walk across it, play on it, move furniture around and otherwise “live” on it, the beautiful carpet quickly gets rippled and looks loose.
- Another reason the experts may have to power-stretch carpet is because the tack-strips start coming loose. This happens on occasion. They can re-set the tack strips and then power-stretch the carpet back to drum-tight which is the industry standard.
- The third reason for carpet ripples is owner error and this common mistake. Vacationers and valley snowbirds leave their air conditioners turned off or above ninety degrees for extended periods of time or seasons. In the heat of an Arizona summer, this is a death sentence for your wall-to-wall carpet. The heat builds up inside of your home similar to a parked car with all the windows up. This essentially relaxes your carpet making it wrinkle and ripple. Carpet has latex backing, so it is extremely sensitive to heat. The Phoenix carpet repair specialists recommend leaving your air conditioner set at eighty-five degrees or lower.
Contact the ToFixIt carpet repair experts, carpet repair experts to learn more great tips and schedule your repairs today. Visit the website at: http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/carpet-repair/ or call 602-863-4948.
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Automotive
Prep your car for the summer
Most people have to prepare their automobiles for the long, cold winter months. Here in the beautiful Southwest, Phoenix area has the opposite issues. We have our automobiles prepped for the Arizona hot summer days. Now may be the perfect time, and more importantly, do it before you go on any summer travels. Viewing Arizona from the side of the road waiting for a tow truck is not the way to truly enjoy our great state. Learn more tips, from the ToFixIt car repair expert’s regarding your tires, belts, hoses, fluid levels, oil changes, and even your passenger’s safety prior to the start of our hot summer season.
• Did you know your vehicles belts and hoses are worn out after 3 to 4 years of working hard for you in extreme conditions? Knowing the age of your cars coolant hoses and belts is important. Even if they look good, it does not mean they are. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/repair/
• Your cars cooling system should be tested and flushed each year before the start of summer because your automotives coolant gets old and is picking up many contaminants that will damage your system. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/auto-ac-repair/
• Don't forget those windshield wipers that are now cooked onto your windshield, it's time to replace them; the monsoons are coming to Arizona soon. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/auto-glass-windshields/
The Phoenix, ToFixIt car repair experts are always harping about checking your vehicles tires and air pressure, the cars fluid levels and changing the oil, but they are so important we just feel we have to mention it one more time. These warm Phoenix, days beckon us to outdoor excursions and road trips, but anyone who has been broken down on a hot desert highway knows that taking a few precautions and being prepared is never something that you will regret. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/auto-tires/
And don't forget about you and your passengers.
1. Carry extra water for yourself, passengers and your vehicle.
2. Take along some snacks, non melting types.
3. Know your road service coverage and how to use it. If you are not familiar with the program call your location you frequent before you hit the road.
4. If you have a cell phone, keep it charged, ready, and with you while driving in case of an emergency.
5. Keep something reflective, like a windshield screen (for example) in your vehicle. If your car breaks down or get lost in the desert, it can be used to flag down other motorists. If large enough, it will also help to keep the sun off you.
6. Keep an umbrella in your vehicle. You may not ever need it for rain, but it is a great source of shade in the desert.
7. Purchase an emergency roadside kit and first aid kit. They are usually inexpensive, but can be very valuable if needed. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/safety-products-home-auto/
8. Carry a set of auto jumper cables with you.
9. Most importantly, let someone know where you are going and approximately what time you should arrive. If you are traveling in a remote area, also let someone know the route you plan to take.
Most people have to prepare their automobiles for the long, cold winter months. Here in the beautiful Southwest, Phoenix area has the opposite issues. We have our automobiles prepped for the Arizona hot summer days. Now may be the perfect time, and more importantly, do it before you go on any summer travels. Viewing Arizona from the side of the road waiting for a tow truck is not the way to truly enjoy our great state. Learn more tips, from the ToFixIt car repair expert’s regarding your tires, belts, hoses, fluid levels, oil changes, and even your passenger’s safety prior to the start of our hot summer season.
• Did you know your vehicles belts and hoses are worn out after 3 to 4 years of working hard for you in extreme conditions? Knowing the age of your cars coolant hoses and belts is important. Even if they look good, it does not mean they are. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/repair/
• Your cars cooling system should be tested and flushed each year before the start of summer because your automotives coolant gets old and is picking up many contaminants that will damage your system. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/auto-ac-repair/
• Don't forget those windshield wipers that are now cooked onto your windshield, it's time to replace them; the monsoons are coming to Arizona soon. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/auto-glass-windshields/
The Phoenix, ToFixIt car repair experts are always harping about checking your vehicles tires and air pressure, the cars fluid levels and changing the oil, but they are so important we just feel we have to mention it one more time. These warm Phoenix, days beckon us to outdoor excursions and road trips, but anyone who has been broken down on a hot desert highway knows that taking a few precautions and being prepared is never something that you will regret. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/auto-tires/
And don't forget about you and your passengers.
1. Carry extra water for yourself, passengers and your vehicle.
2. Take along some snacks, non melting types.
3. Know your road service coverage and how to use it. If you are not familiar with the program call your location you frequent before you hit the road.
4. If you have a cell phone, keep it charged, ready, and with you while driving in case of an emergency.
5. Keep something reflective, like a windshield screen (for example) in your vehicle. If your car breaks down or get lost in the desert, it can be used to flag down other motorists. If large enough, it will also help to keep the sun off you.
6. Keep an umbrella in your vehicle. You may not ever need it for rain, but it is a great source of shade in the desert.
7. Purchase an emergency roadside kit and first aid kit. They are usually inexpensive, but can be very valuable if needed. http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/safety-products-home-auto/
8. Carry a set of auto jumper cables with you.
9. Most importantly, let someone know where you are going and approximately what time you should arrive. If you are traveling in a remote area, also let someone know the route you plan to take.
Learn how to check your tires
Check your tire treads by sticking a quarter between the treads of your tires in several places. If part of Washington’s head is always covered, you have enough tread. Keep in mind that bald tires create less traction between your car and the road and, in wet conditions, could cause your car to slide off the road, into another car or worse. It takes less than 1/4 inch of water to cause a car to slide if you don’t have proper treads.
Check your tire treads by sticking a quarter between the treads of your tires in several places. If part of Washington’s head is always covered, you have enough tread. Keep in mind that bald tires create less traction between your car and the road and, in wet conditions, could cause your car to slide off the road, into another car or worse. It takes less than 1/4 inch of water to cause a car to slide if you don’t have proper treads.
Tire Safety Tips
Whether your vehicle has 1,000 or 100,000 miles on it, we want you to get the most out of it while maintaining the safest conditions possible. Everyone tells you that you need to keep up with maintenance and check your fluids, but most people don’t bother with it until it is too late.
Don’t overlook simple checks that could end up costing you big dollars down the road, so we put together the top 5 tips to maintain your car and get the most out of it. Did you know that a $6 air filter, if un-replaced when needed, could end up costing you as much as a thousand dollars? You’d be surprised how simple maintenance, can save you time, money and hassle down the road.
1. Maintain and check your tires for safety:
Tread
Check your tire treads by sticking a quarter between the treads of your tires in several places. If part of Washington’s head is always covered, you have enough tread. Keep in mind that bald tires create less traction between your car and the road and, in wet conditions, could cause your car to slide off the road, into another car or worse. It takes less than 1/4 inch of water to cause a car to slide if you don’t have proper treads.
Pressure
Newer cars have an automatic tire pressure gauge, but older cars aren’t equipped, so you need to know how to determine, and check, your tire pressure. The proper pressure is important; you can find your car’s manufacturer recommended tire pressure on the door post on the driver’s side instead of the tire itself. Remember, anything that severely diminishes the air pressure and prevents the tire from supporting the weight of the automobile will likely cause a blowout that could lead to a car accident.
Rotate your tires
Rotating your tires not only helps to distribute tire wear evenly but also it ensures that you’ll get the maximum road life out of them, if your car is properly aligned you can see up to 25% more life from your tires. Refer to your owner’s manual and it should give you a guideline on the rotation period and pattern. If not, a good rule of thumb is to rotate your tires every 6,000 to 7,500 miles.
Have wheel alignment checked
Don’t forget to have your car’s alignment checked every 30,000 miles, or as recommended in your owner’s manual. If you just bought new tires, or had a rack-and-pinion steering unit or other steering parts installed, it is a good idea to have the alignment checked. You may be able to tell if your car is not aligned properly if your steering is stiffer than normal or the vehicle pulls to one side, in that case take it to your mechanic and have them align your car properly.
2. Check and change your fluids:
Check brake fluid monthly
Use the type recommended by your car’s maker. Never substitute other fluids; this can be a costly mistake. The fluid reservoir is clearly marked under your hood for most vehicles. If you can’t find it, look on Google for “brake fluid” and the year and make of your car. Chances are you’ll find it. Otherwise give your mechanic a call or better yet, stop by their store front.
Dilute your coolant
Your cooling system needs both coolant-antifreeze and water. The commonly recommended ratio is 50-50. Check the coolant-antifreeze level weekly; some coolant manufacturers sell a premixed ratio for a quick and easy way to top off. Avoid mixing coolants that are different in color; use the coolant specified in your owner’s manual.
Check the power-steering fluid once a month
Make sure your car has warmed up. If the level is low, have the hoses and pump inspected for leaks. You may be low on power steering fluid if your car is difficult to steer and low power-steering fluid will damage the power-steering pump. Again, only use fluid recommended for your car.
Change automatic transmission fluid and filter
Check your car’s fluids after the first 5,000 miles and after every 25,000 miles or two years thereafter.
Flush it
Do forget that the coolant-antifreeze eventually degrades and becomes contaminated. Flush it according to your owner’s manual. Failing to do so can damage your radiator, clog your heater core, and cause the thermostat and water pump to fail, which can cost you big dollars.
3. Don’t forget your filters
There are several filters that are important to preserving your car engine, and they should be changed according to the schedule in your owner’s manual or as follows:
Change the oil filter at every other oil change
Check the air filter every two months and replace it when dirty or as part of a tune-up.
Change your fuel filters once a year
Change your transmission fluid filter after the first 5,000 miles (8,000 km) of driving and every 25,000 miles (40,000 km) or two year thereafter.
4. Don’t leave your spark plugs out
Many manufacturers recommend changing plugs every 30,000 or 40,000 miles to ensure good fuel mileage and engine performance.
5. Clean your engine
Can you see what’s under your hood? Wash your engine at least once every year or two. A clean engine will run cooler than a dirty one and make it much easier to spot leaks. Remember to protect sensitive engine components, including the air intake, distributor, and electrical parts — with plastic bags before getting started.
So, whether you have a brand new car or a hand me down, it is important to maintain what you have to avoid costly repairs. If you hear, feel, smell or see something that is out of place, don’t wait to take it in to your mechanic to see what’s wrong. See fluid on the garage floor; don’t waste a moment to find out what it means.
Keeping on top of your maintenance and catching problems early can save you thousands down the road.
Whether your vehicle has 1,000 or 100,000 miles on it, we want you to get the most out of it while maintaining the safest conditions possible. Everyone tells you that you need to keep up with maintenance and check your fluids, but most people don’t bother with it until it is too late.
Don’t overlook simple checks that could end up costing you big dollars down the road, so we put together the top 5 tips to maintain your car and get the most out of it. Did you know that a $6 air filter, if un-replaced when needed, could end up costing you as much as a thousand dollars? You’d be surprised how simple maintenance, can save you time, money and hassle down the road.
1. Maintain and check your tires for safety:
Tread
Check your tire treads by sticking a quarter between the treads of your tires in several places. If part of Washington’s head is always covered, you have enough tread. Keep in mind that bald tires create less traction between your car and the road and, in wet conditions, could cause your car to slide off the road, into another car or worse. It takes less than 1/4 inch of water to cause a car to slide if you don’t have proper treads.
Pressure
Newer cars have an automatic tire pressure gauge, but older cars aren’t equipped, so you need to know how to determine, and check, your tire pressure. The proper pressure is important; you can find your car’s manufacturer recommended tire pressure on the door post on the driver’s side instead of the tire itself. Remember, anything that severely diminishes the air pressure and prevents the tire from supporting the weight of the automobile will likely cause a blowout that could lead to a car accident.
Rotate your tires
Rotating your tires not only helps to distribute tire wear evenly but also it ensures that you’ll get the maximum road life out of them, if your car is properly aligned you can see up to 25% more life from your tires. Refer to your owner’s manual and it should give you a guideline on the rotation period and pattern. If not, a good rule of thumb is to rotate your tires every 6,000 to 7,500 miles.
Have wheel alignment checked
Don’t forget to have your car’s alignment checked every 30,000 miles, or as recommended in your owner’s manual. If you just bought new tires, or had a rack-and-pinion steering unit or other steering parts installed, it is a good idea to have the alignment checked. You may be able to tell if your car is not aligned properly if your steering is stiffer than normal or the vehicle pulls to one side, in that case take it to your mechanic and have them align your car properly.
2. Check and change your fluids:
Check brake fluid monthly
Use the type recommended by your car’s maker. Never substitute other fluids; this can be a costly mistake. The fluid reservoir is clearly marked under your hood for most vehicles. If you can’t find it, look on Google for “brake fluid” and the year and make of your car. Chances are you’ll find it. Otherwise give your mechanic a call or better yet, stop by their store front.
Dilute your coolant
Your cooling system needs both coolant-antifreeze and water. The commonly recommended ratio is 50-50. Check the coolant-antifreeze level weekly; some coolant manufacturers sell a premixed ratio for a quick and easy way to top off. Avoid mixing coolants that are different in color; use the coolant specified in your owner’s manual.
Check the power-steering fluid once a month
Make sure your car has warmed up. If the level is low, have the hoses and pump inspected for leaks. You may be low on power steering fluid if your car is difficult to steer and low power-steering fluid will damage the power-steering pump. Again, only use fluid recommended for your car.
Change automatic transmission fluid and filter
Check your car’s fluids after the first 5,000 miles and after every 25,000 miles or two years thereafter.
Flush it
Do forget that the coolant-antifreeze eventually degrades and becomes contaminated. Flush it according to your owner’s manual. Failing to do so can damage your radiator, clog your heater core, and cause the thermostat and water pump to fail, which can cost you big dollars.
3. Don’t forget your filters
There are several filters that are important to preserving your car engine, and they should be changed according to the schedule in your owner’s manual or as follows:
Change the oil filter at every other oil change
Check the air filter every two months and replace it when dirty or as part of a tune-up.
Change your fuel filters once a year
Change your transmission fluid filter after the first 5,000 miles (8,000 km) of driving and every 25,000 miles (40,000 km) or two year thereafter.
4. Don’t leave your spark plugs out
Many manufacturers recommend changing plugs every 30,000 or 40,000 miles to ensure good fuel mileage and engine performance.
5. Clean your engine
Can you see what’s under your hood? Wash your engine at least once every year or two. A clean engine will run cooler than a dirty one and make it much easier to spot leaks. Remember to protect sensitive engine components, including the air intake, distributor, and electrical parts — with plastic bags before getting started.
So, whether you have a brand new car or a hand me down, it is important to maintain what you have to avoid costly repairs. If you hear, feel, smell or see something that is out of place, don’t wait to take it in to your mechanic to see what’s wrong. See fluid on the garage floor; don’t waste a moment to find out what it means.
Keeping on top of your maintenance and catching problems early can save you thousands down the road.
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