Question 1

Utilities numbers for your convenience:

Accepted Answer

click here: (https://coastalgroupinc.managebuilding.com/Resident/public/custom/20)
https://coastalgroupinc.managebuilding.com/Resident/public/custom/20 (https://coastalgroupinc.managebuilding.com/Resident/public/custom/20)

Question 2

What should I do if I lose power or need to reset the circuit breaker?

Accepted Answer

If you lose power or need to reset the circuit breaker, follow these steps: 
1. Turn off or unplug all devices connected to the circuit. 
2. Locate the tripped circuit breaker, which will be in the middle or "OFF" position. 
3. Reset the breaker by pushing it all the way to the "OFF" position and then back to the "ON" position. 
4. If the breaker trips again, submit a maintenance request to Coastal Group Inc. 
5. If no breakers are tripped and you still don't have power, the circuit may be on a GFCI.

For more information on fuse boxes, click here.  https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-Fuse-Box-or-Circuit-Breaker-Box (https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-Fuse-Box-or-Circuit-Breaker-Box)

Question 3

What should I do if I lose power to the bathroom, kitchen, or outside?

Accepted Answer

If you lose power to the bathroom, kitchen, or outside, follow these steps: 
1. Check if the GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet has tripped. 
2. Look for a GFCI outlet that may have tripped, even if it's not near the non-working outlet. (sometimes on the patio or porch outside)
3. Press the "Reset" button on the GFCI outlet. 
4. If the outlet doesn't reset, unplug all appliances and check the circuit breaker or fuse. 
If these steps don't resolve the issue, submit a maintenance request to Coastal Group Inc.

Question 4

Checking for a blown fuse

Accepted Answer

If you have an older home, you may have fuses as opposed to circuit breakers. Located inside or outside of your home is a fuse box that contains a fuse for each of your home's circuits. A fuse provides protection for each of your circuits. When an electrical short occurs or the load on your circuit becomes too great, the fuse on that circuit burns out and breaks the circuit; this is what is referred to as a "blown fuse". If your home uses circuit breakers instead of fuses, click here.(https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-Fuse-Box-or-Circuit-Breaker-Box)

Before electricity can be restored, the fuse must be replaced with a new fuse. However, even before you replace the fuse, you must take steps to ensure that it is safe to do so:

• Turn off or unplug all of the devices that are plugged into the circuit. Make certain that no dangerous condition exists before restoring power.
 • 
 • Replace the fuse with a fuse that is of the proper rating for the circuit. For instance, if the circuit is rated for 15 amps, use a 15-amp fuse. Never use anything other than a fuse of proper rating.
 • 
 • When removing or inserting a new fuse, NEVER touch the metal parts of the fuse. If your fuse box is equipped with a master switch to cut power to the fuse box, cut the main power prior to replacing the fuse.
 • 
Electricity should now be restored to the circuit. If the fuse blows again before you have turned anything on or plugged anything in, submit a maintenance request to Coastal Group Inc right away.

If the fuse blows after plugging in or turning on a device, that device may have a short or may be placing too much of a load on the circuit.

If no fuses were blown and you still do not have power at an outlet, make certain that the switch, if any, that controls the outlet is turned on. If you can find no problem, the outlet, switch, wiring or some other component may be at fault. Also, the outlet may be on a GFCI branch circuit. Refer to the guide for checking a GFCI circuit.(https://www.wikihow.com/Reset-Gfci-Outlet)

Question 5

How to unjam my garbage disposal

Accepted Answer

External link for Troubleshooting:(http://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Garbage-Disposal)  
Garbage disposals are usually an easy fix, but always remember to unplug the unit before attempting to clear a jam; there may be water under your sink making it dangerous to be under the sink while the power is on. Pressing the overload button underneath the disposal may fix the issue right away. If the blades are still stuck, rotate them with an Allen wrench or a specialty garbage disposal wrench. If the garbage disposal still doesn't work, it's time to call a plumber or replace the unit.

Step 1 Unplug the garbage disposal unit.
Unplug the garbage disposal unit. Pull the plug out of the outlet to ensure that the disposal unit can’t activate while you work on it. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Step 2
Visually inspect and feel around inside the disposal before doing anything else. This will help you become aware of debris like silverware, sauce cup, or beverage caps. If you reset it, it may dislodge and start shredding something it shouldn't.

Step 3 Press the reset button on the disposal’s underside.

Press the reset button on the disposal’s underside. The reset button or thermal overload button is on the bottom of the garbage disposal. Crawl under it and look for a red button. If it looks like it's sticking out, push it back into the unit. This may fix the jam right away.
If the reset button isn't sticking out, move on to other methods that involve manually rotating the grinders to clear the blockage. Keep the unit unplugged.

Step 4 Wait 15 minutes if the button pops out again.

Wait 15 minutes if the button pops out again. The red button pops out when the garbage disposal overheats. Give it time to cool down, then press the button again. Repeat this until the button stays in place.  If the button still doesn’t stay in place, switch to a different method.

Step 5 Run cold water in the sink.

Run cold water in the sink. Turn on the faucet. Check to make sure the water is cold, then let it run into the drain and through the disposal for a minute or 2.

Step 6 Test the garbage disposal.

Test the garbage disposal. Plug the unit back in and make sure that it's turned on. The reset button should stay in place as the disposal blades begin spinning again. If they're still stuck, listen for the motor humming to indicate that the device is functional other than the jammed grinders.
If the unit isn't humming and you know the power is on in your house, it is probably broken and needed to be replaced.

Question 6

How to properly use your garbage disposal?

Accepted Answer

External Link: How to properly use your garbage disposal(http://blog.insinkerator.com/how-to-use-garbage-disposal/)

Question 7

What do I do if I smell gas in the house?

Accepted Answer

External Link: What do I do if I smell gas in the house?
(https://www.virginianaturalgas.com/safety.html)If you smell natural gas (a rotten egg odor) or suspect a leak, immediately leave the area, avoid using any electronics or potential sparks, and call 911 or Virginia Natural Gas at 877-572-3342 (https://www.virginianaturalgas.com/safety/safety-precautions/severe-weather.html)once you are in a safe location. Do not try to locate the leak yourself.

Because natural gas is colorless and odorless, we've added a chemical odorant called mercaptan that makes natural gas smell like rotten eggs. This distinctive scent allows you to smell potential leaks quickly and take steps to stay safe. If you smell that stench in the air, make sure you do the following:  call 911 or Virginia Natural Gas at 877-572-3342 (https://www.virginianaturalgas.com/safety/safety-precautions/severe-weather.html)once you are in a safe location.

Question 8

How do I light pilot light on gas fireplace?

Accepted Answer

External Link: How do I light pilot light on gas fireplace?(http://www.ehow.com/how_4843440_light-gas-fireplace-pilot-light.html)

Question 9

What if I don’t have hot water?

Accepted Answer

1. Check that a fuse hasn't blown or that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. Replace with the appropriate fuse or reset the circuit breaker.
2. Some properties also have Hydronic Furnaces. This means the heat comes from the hot water in your water heater. To be sure the hot water is getting to the furnace check the water valves going from your water heater to the furnace. They both need to be on (handle turned the same direction as the pipe). Sometimes the hot water valve is turned off in the summertime in order for the A/C to work at the highest efficiency.
3. Check to see if the pilot light is on. If it is not you can follow the directions on the water heater to re light the pilot light.
4. 4. If you have a gas-powered water heater, make sure that the gas valve is open and that there is enough gas supply. 
5. If you have an electric water heater, make sure that the breaker is not tripped. 
6. Check the Thermostat: If the heater appears to be functioning properly, you may need to check the thermostat.

Question 10

How do I change my furnace filters?

Accepted Answer

External Link: How do I change my furnace filters?(http://www.wikihow.com/Maintain-a-Residential-Natural-Gas-Furnace)

Question 11

What should I do if my air conditioning isn't working?

Accepted Answer

If your air conditioning isn't working, try these steps before submitting a maintenance request: 
1. Check if a fuse has blown or the circuit breaker has tripped. Replace the fuse or reset the breaker if needed. 
2. Inspect the furnace filter and replace it if it's dirty. 
3. Ensure the thermostat batteries are good and the temperature is set correctly. 
4. Check the outside unit to see if the fan blades are moving and the unit isn't iced over. 
5. Look for a light switch (with Red coverplate) near the furnace that might have been turned off by mistake. 
If these steps don't resolve the issue, please submit an online maintenance request. (https://coastalgroupinc.managebuilding.com/Resident/portal/login)

Question 12

No heat for systems using electric heat

Accepted Answer

Before calling in your problem or making a work order request, please check the below possible options:

1. Check that a fuse hasn't blown or that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. Replace with the appropriate fuse or reset the circuit breaker.
2. Check that your thermostat is on, heat is selected, and set at a temperature that would call for heat (not too low) (replace thermostat batteries if that is indicated)
3. Check that there is nothing obstructing the airflow from the heater or heater vents
4. Electric furnaces, not baseboards or cadet heaters, often have a light switch (with Red coverplate) right next to the furnace which turns the furnace off. Because this switch is identical to a light switch, it gets turned off by mistake. Simply check any nearby switches. If they don't turn lights on and off, they may be turning the furnace on or off.

If after checking the above and you still do not have heat, please submit an:
 on-line maintenance request.(https://coastalgroupinc.managebuilding.com/Resident/portal/login) 
Within the request, please annotate the condition of your furnace filters and the status of any steady or blinking red lights.

Question 13

What should I do if I have no heat for systems using gas heat?

Accepted Answer

If you have no heat for systems using gas heat, try these steps before submitting a:
 maintenance request:(https://coastalgroupinc.managebuilding.com/Resident/portal/login) 
1. Check if a fuse has blown or the circuit breaker has tripped. Replace the fuse or reset the breaker if needed. 
2. Ensure the light switch  (usually a Red coverplate) near the furnace is on. 
3. Verify the thermostat is on, set to heat, and at an appropriate temperature. 
4. Confirm your gas service is active and in your name. 
5. Listen for any fans or blowers running. 
6. Check for any blinking or steady red lights on the furnace. 
7. Inspect and replace dirty furnace filters. 
8. For Hydronic Furnaces, ensure the water valves from the water heater to the furnace are on. 
9. Check the water heater temperature setting. If these steps don't resolve the issue, submit an online maintenance request in the resident portal, noting the condition of your furnace filters and any red lights.

Question 14

How to patch a door knob hole in a wall

Accepted Answer

External Link: How to patch a door knob hole in a wall (https://www.wikihow.com/Repair-Holes-in-Drywall)(multiple suggested options here)

Question 15

How to unclog my drain

Accepted Answer

External Link: How to unclog my drain (http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-unclog-a-drain1.htm)(good directions to follow)

Question 16

Troubleshooting your dishwasher

Accepted Answer

Maintenance request link: (https://coastalgroupinc.managebuilding.com/Resident/portal/login)

Question 17

How to turn off main water supply

Accepted Answer

External Link: How to turn off main water supply (http://www.wikihow.com/Turn-Off-Your-Water-Supply-Quick-and-Easy)
1. at the device, 
2. with the main house shut-off, or 
3. at the street water meter.

Question 18

I put the wrong soap in the dishwasher -- now what?

Accepted Answer

External Link: I put the wrong soap in the dishwasher -- now what? (http://www.acmehowto.com/howto/appliance/dishwasher/wrongsoap.php) 
If dish soap is mistakenly used in a dishwasher, immediately stop the cycle, remove dishes, and bail out excess suds. Counteract foam by adding 1 tablespoon of cooking oil or 1 cup of white vinegar to the basin. Run multiple rinse cycles until all bubbles disappear to prevent damage. 
Steps to Fix Dish Soap in the Dishwasher:
 • Stop and Remove: Cancel the wash cycle immediately to stop more soap from entering, then remove all dishes.
 • Remove Suds: Scoop out as many suds as possible using a container or use a wet/dry vacuum.
 • Neutralize Foam: Pour roughly 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or a cup of olive oil into the bottom to break down the suds. Alternatively, mix 1 cup of white vinegar with a few tablespoons of salt to neutralize the soap.
 • Run Rinse Cycles: Run the dishwasher on a rinse or short cycle. Repeat this process 3–5 times until no more suds are produced.
 • Dry: Once the bubbles are gone, dry out the interior with towels. 
Why This Happens:
Using hand dish soap causes massive, overflowing bubbles because it is not designed for the agitation of a dishwasher. This can lead to soap scum buildup on dishes and, in some cases, cause damage to the machine's components.

Question 19

Dryer Issues?

Accepted Answer

You may be able to dry, as a back-up option, on the "Mild" setting, which usually has a separate thermostat.

If your dryer is not heating up, please look at this website: https://www.searshomeservices.com/blog/top-reasons-why-your-dryer-wont-heat-guide (https://www.searshomeservices.com/blog/top-reasons-why-your-dryer-wont-heat-guide)

If your dryer is heating up but not drying, you may have a vent issue. Please look at this website: https://homesmiles.com/how-to-fix-a-clogged-dryer-vent-essential-tips-for-homeowners/ (https://homesmiles.com/how-to-fix-a-clogged-dryer-vent-essential-tips-for-homeowners/)

Question 20

Refrigerator Issues?

Accepted Answer

If your refrigerator is not working correctly, please visit this website for troubleshooting: https://www.searshomeservices.com/blog/diy-refrigerator-repair-tips (https://www.searshomeservices.com/blog/diy-refrigerator-repair-tips)

Question 21

Garage Issues?

Accepted Answer

If your garage door isn't closing all the way, you may have a problem with the aligning of the sensors at the bottom corners of the garage door. This may occur if anyone has accidentally bumped into them. For a video of how to properly align your garage door, go to this link:  https://raynordoorauthority.com/garage-door-wont-close/ (https://raynordoorauthority.com/garage-door-wont-close/)

1. Most garage door issues come down to sensor misalignment, obstructions, or power problems. 
2. If you spot broken springs, damaged cables, or a door off its track, it’s time to step back. 
    These repairs can be dangerous and are best left to a professional.

Question 22

Smoke detector FAQs

Accepted Answer

All properties have smoke detectors. Properties with gas burning appliances, a fireplace, or an attached garage should have a CO/Smoke combo.
They are usually clearly labeled if they detect carbon monoxide as well as smoke/fire.

Smoke detectors have 2 alarms that mean different things:
 • Beep/chirp approximately 2-3 times every 5 minutes most of the time means the battery needs changed. If that doesn't fix it, it may have lost power to the unit or have a loose connection. If you unplug the detector from the ceiling/wall, it will probably continue making noise because there is a back-up battery in most of them. If you take the battery out it still has enough power stored internally to beep 4-5 more times.
 • Beeping/chirping non-stop means there is smoke/fire or it's a false alarm.

See below for false alarms:
 • Most false alarms (chirping non-stop) are caused by dust in the sensor area of the detector. - Fixed by blowing out with compressed air or vacuum.
 • Some smoke detectors have an expiration (10yrs for example & usually labeled on back of unit) and after that time period they start having false alarms. - Fixed by replacing expired detectors.
 • Very rarely, false alarms are caused by drastic temp./weather changes, such as attic being 120 degrees and house at 75. - Fixed by pushing the silence button (if it has one) and after a short time it will reset and hopefully not falsely go off again.
 • Very rarely, false alarms are caused by air blowing directly on the detector (open window, ceiling fan blowing upward instead of downward, etc.). - Fixed by re-directing air movement away from detector.
 • Very rarely, false alarms are caused by a defective detector. - Fixed by replacing detector.

Question 23

Testing smoke detector / maintenance

Accepted Answer

The owner provides this service through Detector Inspector. (https://www.thedetectorinspector.com/about-detector-inspector/)

External Link: Testing smoke detector / maintenance(http://www.wikihow.com/Test-a-Smoke-Detector)

Answers to Frequently Asked Tenant Questions

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