The 2012 ASTI Convention is right around the corner with Appliance Service Experts from all over the nation looking forward to the event
San Antonio TX – For the 20th consecutive year the Appliance Service Training Institute (ASTI) will present the appliance repair training convention in San Antonio Texas. Appliance repair experts from all over the US will attend the event to enhance their knowledge and learn about important updates in new appliance technology.
Why would appliance repair technicians take a week off work to learn what they are already doing full time? The answer is because we live in a constantly changing world of technology. Today’s new appliances will be old news when the competition comes up with a new and better way.
Appliance repair training is an ongoing requirement to stay on the cutting edge of technology. There are 5 great reasons for appliance service experts to attend this convention.
• Receive in-depth, hands-on management and technical training featuring the latest products from leading appliance manufacturers and business management skills from top industry leaders.
• Get in tune with best practices for service businesses which can lead to more profit
• Experience emerging technologies
• Develop and expand profitable business relationships
• Make new contacts and meet suppliers who will present fresh ideas to make and save money
The ASTI offers the industry’s broadest and best of class technical and business management training, plus a trade show featuring a wide array of products and services. Attendees will enjoy information and resources which will help them to improve their skills, increase their organization’s bottom line and have some fun while in San Antonio.
The annual Appliance Repair Training event includes breakfasts, lunches, receptions, awards banquet, hospitality and coffee breaks. There will be no additional charge for the pre-event, Feb 14, Basic Electrical & Refrigeration Theory classes.
This appliance repair training event is a great networking opportunity to meet with fellow appliance service technicians and industry representatives. The event takes place Wed – Sat, Feb 15 – Feb 18, 2012, 8am to 5pm, at the El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel; 110 Lexington Ave; San Antonio, TX, 92108. Visit http://www.appliancerepairtraining.org/ to learn more.
About United Servicers Association:
The United Servicers Association is a non-profit trade association for servicers by servicers. Their mission and purpose is to develop and provide services and programs intended to assist members in building strong businesses in North America’s competitive environment. Services include educational programs, manufacturer relations, management, marketing and operational programs, Peer Group formation and facilitation.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Dryer Fires
Dryer fires are one of the biggest dangers in a home. As demonstrated in a TODAY Home Alert News Story, the lint that builds up in your dryer is very flammable. All it takes is one piece too close to the burner or element in your dryer and the fire could spread if there is enough built up.
We have seen many dryers that have evidence that some lint inside them has burned, but a dryer fire can potentially cause smoke damage, or burn a house to the ground.
Here is a list of some things that you can do to avoid a dryer fire in your home.
Common Causes of Dryer Fires:
•Failure to clean dryers, lint traps, and venting systems
•Improper venting material
•Storage of combustible material near dryer
•Putting clothing through more than one drying cycle
•Failure to adhere to load capacities
•Leaving the dryer running unattended
•Mechanical or electrical failure
Dryer Fires can be easily avoided by having your dryer, and home vent professionally cleaned every 3-5 years.
We have seen many dryers that have evidence that some lint inside them has burned, but a dryer fire can potentially cause smoke damage, or burn a house to the ground.
Here is a list of some things that you can do to avoid a dryer fire in your home.
Common Causes of Dryer Fires:
•Failure to clean dryers, lint traps, and venting systems
•Improper venting material
•Storage of combustible material near dryer
•Putting clothing through more than one drying cycle
•Failure to adhere to load capacities
•Leaving the dryer running unattended
•Mechanical or electrical failure
Dryer Fires can be easily avoided by having your dryer, and home vent professionally cleaned every 3-5 years.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Tips for When you Travel
When you are going on vacation, there are a few things you should know about your appliances before you leave. There are many horror stories of people coming home to a flooded house after a vacation. There are a couple simple steps that can be taken to keep your household appliances from causing such a disaster.
•Turn off water to the Washer
If the water is left on there is constantly pressure on the washer hoses, rubber washer hoses should be replaced every 5 years. Stainless braided hoses should be replaced every 10 years. The hoses can deteriorate and burst, with the water left on it would just be a constant stream into your laundry room. Hoses should be checked often, and if there are any signs of damage or deterioration they should be replaced.
•Turn off water to the Dishwasher
not as likely but just as damaging as washer hoses, the line to your dishwasher could break or leak, and go unnoticed while you are traveling.
•Turn off at least icemaker in your fridge
Icemakers can break mechanically and get stuck in the fill part of their cycle which would cause water to continuously run in your freezer, leading to a flood, and a solid block of ice.
The line going to the fridge could also leak, causing a flood so if you can turn the water off without too much trouble turn both the icemaker and water off. The problem with this is the shut off is usually behind the fridge.
Another tip for everyday use is to not leave any appliances running and leave your home. Starting a load of laundry before heading to work may seem productive, but with front load, and top load washers we have seen the water level sensor malfunction and just continuously fill the washer until it floods. Dishwashers and ice makers can both do the same. We have also seen dryers catch fire from built up lint and if you aren’t home to catch any of these it could lead to major damage.
•Turn off water to the Washer
If the water is left on there is constantly pressure on the washer hoses, rubber washer hoses should be replaced every 5 years. Stainless braided hoses should be replaced every 10 years. The hoses can deteriorate and burst, with the water left on it would just be a constant stream into your laundry room. Hoses should be checked often, and if there are any signs of damage or deterioration they should be replaced.
•Turn off water to the Dishwasher
not as likely but just as damaging as washer hoses, the line to your dishwasher could break or leak, and go unnoticed while you are traveling.
•Turn off at least icemaker in your fridge
Icemakers can break mechanically and get stuck in the fill part of their cycle which would cause water to continuously run in your freezer, leading to a flood, and a solid block of ice.
The line going to the fridge could also leak, causing a flood so if you can turn the water off without too much trouble turn both the icemaker and water off. The problem with this is the shut off is usually behind the fridge.
Another tip for everyday use is to not leave any appliances running and leave your home. Starting a load of laundry before heading to work may seem productive, but with front load, and top load washers we have seen the water level sensor malfunction and just continuously fill the washer until it floods. Dishwashers and ice makers can both do the same. We have also seen dryers catch fire from built up lint and if you aren’t home to catch any of these it could lead to major damage.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Cleaning Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel appliances look great, and have become a very popular choice. Cleaning the Stainless appliances is far less popular. Many people struggle to clean their Stainless, and have tried every trick in the book, and every “Stainless Steel Cleaner” on the market. Unfortunately Stainless steel can be difficult to clean, and some products that seem to clean it great can damage it over time.
Stainless Steel is an alloy of Iron and Chromium, it gets its “stainless” quality from an oxide coating on the surface. The coating on the surface develops during manufacturing, from the Chromium reacting with oxygen in the air. This process continues throughout the steel’s life, but the coating can be damaged by things such as dirt, grease, and some cleaners like Windex.
People have reported using cleaners like Pledge and Windex with no problems, while others have said that over time it has an effect on the finish of the Stainless. Below are some basic tips that work, without harming the Stainless.
1. Stainless Steel should be washed regularly.
2. Stainless should also be treated or polished regularly.
3. The safest, easiest way to clean stainless is using a warm, wet microfiber towel, wiping down the whole sheet of stainless at the same time, wiping with the grain of the metal and drying with another dry microfiber towel. A small amount of mild dish detergent can be added to the water to help remove grease, dirt or other grime.
4. A dab of olive oil on a clean cloth can be used to remove streaks
5. Ammonia can be used to remove fingerprints, or to polish.
6. Undiluted Vinegar can also be used to polish.
7. Stainless cleaners or polishes can help to protect the stainless and should be applied according to the individual product.
8. Always make sure to put another towel down to protect your floor.
9. Always try to rub with the grain of the metal, and use microfiber cloths or towels.
We have also compiled a list of warnings regarding cleaning Stainless Steel.
1. Abrasive cleaners or cleaning cloths can leave permanent scratches on Stainless Steel
2. Cleaners that aren’t specifically made for Stainless Steel can damage the oxide coating.
3. Chlorine is very damaging to Stainless, Never use bleach to clean.
4. When spraying or washing the stainless there is always the possibility of getting whatever you are using on the floor below the appliance, so we suggest always placing a towel over the floor.
It is important to keep in mind that all Stainless Steels can be different, and these are just suggestions. They may work for some people and not work for others. Remember that Stainless should be cleaned regularly because dirt and grease can cause damage or even stains and it could be beneficial to use Stainless cleaners or polish to keep the Stainless in good shape. Once you find something that works for you, stick with it.
If you have any methods that you think work well, or try these and like something tell us about it, post on our wall on Facebook, or mention us (@OrtegasApplianc) on Twitter.
Follow us on Twitter, Like us on Facebook, Follow this Blog for more tips and information.
Stainless Steel is an alloy of Iron and Chromium, it gets its “stainless” quality from an oxide coating on the surface. The coating on the surface develops during manufacturing, from the Chromium reacting with oxygen in the air. This process continues throughout the steel’s life, but the coating can be damaged by things such as dirt, grease, and some cleaners like Windex.
People have reported using cleaners like Pledge and Windex with no problems, while others have said that over time it has an effect on the finish of the Stainless. Below are some basic tips that work, without harming the Stainless.
1. Stainless Steel should be washed regularly.
2. Stainless should also be treated or polished regularly.
3. The safest, easiest way to clean stainless is using a warm, wet microfiber towel, wiping down the whole sheet of stainless at the same time, wiping with the grain of the metal and drying with another dry microfiber towel. A small amount of mild dish detergent can be added to the water to help remove grease, dirt or other grime.
4. A dab of olive oil on a clean cloth can be used to remove streaks
5. Ammonia can be used to remove fingerprints, or to polish.
6. Undiluted Vinegar can also be used to polish.
7. Stainless cleaners or polishes can help to protect the stainless and should be applied according to the individual product.
8. Always make sure to put another towel down to protect your floor.
9. Always try to rub with the grain of the metal, and use microfiber cloths or towels.
We have also compiled a list of warnings regarding cleaning Stainless Steel.
1. Abrasive cleaners or cleaning cloths can leave permanent scratches on Stainless Steel
2. Cleaners that aren’t specifically made for Stainless Steel can damage the oxide coating.
3. Chlorine is very damaging to Stainless, Never use bleach to clean.
4. When spraying or washing the stainless there is always the possibility of getting whatever you are using on the floor below the appliance, so we suggest always placing a towel over the floor.
It is important to keep in mind that all Stainless Steels can be different, and these are just suggestions. They may work for some people and not work for others. Remember that Stainless should be cleaned regularly because dirt and grease can cause damage or even stains and it could be beneficial to use Stainless cleaners or polish to keep the Stainless in good shape. Once you find something that works for you, stick with it.
If you have any methods that you think work well, or try these and like something tell us about it, post on our wall on Facebook, or mention us (@OrtegasApplianc) on Twitter.
Follow us on Twitter, Like us on Facebook, Follow this Blog for more tips and information.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Front Load Washer Odor
Front loading washers are not only great looking laundry appliances, but are designed to be high efficiency appliances. They use less water and soap than top loading washing machines. Unfortunately the way they are designed to work can cause problems with mold, if you don’t follow what is laid out in the owner’s manual.
Always do the following to maintain washer freshness
• Use only HE High Efficiency detergent.
• Leave the door slightly open after each cycle to allow for better ventilation and drying of washer interior.
• Repeat the cleaning procedure monthly, using 2⁄3 cup (160 mL) of liquid chlorine bleach.
This is a section straight from the Whirlpool Duet Owner’s Manual. This is similar to those found in all front load Owner’s Manuals.
The air/water tight seal will not allow water to evaporate if the door is closed at the end of a cycle. The water left in the machine can allow mold or mildew to begin to grow. HE detergents are designed to leave behind as little residue as possible, since the front load washers use less water, they can’t get rid of as much soap residue. Using too much detergent or not using HE detergent can lead to a buildup of residue inside the washer, or on the rubber door seal.
Foreign debris can also cause problems, coins, pens, sunglasses, bobby pins, safety pins, razor blades, jewelry, and many other items have been found clogging washing machine pumps. The pump being clogged can cause it to not pump out as much water as it should and lead to an odor problem or even damaging the pump. Small clothes such as baby clothes, or children’s socks can also get through to the pump and clog or damage it, using a laundry bag for small items is an easy way to eliminate that danger.
To prevent issues with an odor or buildup in your washer you can follow these helpful tips:
• Always leave the door and dispenser slightly ajar after each load
• Clean out pockets of clothes before washing them
• Use a laundry bag for small items.
• Never leave a wet load in the washer overnight
• Check the door seal and drum for debris and clothes after each load
• Always use HE detergents
• Occasionally wash some loads in warm or hot water
• Clean washer as per your Owner’s Manual
If you have issues with an odor or buildup in your washer you can follow these helpful tips:
• Clean washer as per your Owner’s Manual
• Thoroughly clean door seal, dispenser and tub
• Run a cleaning cycle with a cleaner such as Affresh or Washer Magic
Please Follow this Blog,Follow us on Twitter, Like us on Facebook or visit our Website
Always do the following to maintain washer freshness
• Use only HE High Efficiency detergent.
• Leave the door slightly open after each cycle to allow for better ventilation and drying of washer interior.
• Repeat the cleaning procedure monthly, using 2⁄3 cup (160 mL) of liquid chlorine bleach.
This is a section straight from the Whirlpool Duet Owner’s Manual. This is similar to those found in all front load Owner’s Manuals.
The air/water tight seal will not allow water to evaporate if the door is closed at the end of a cycle. The water left in the machine can allow mold or mildew to begin to grow. HE detergents are designed to leave behind as little residue as possible, since the front load washers use less water, they can’t get rid of as much soap residue. Using too much detergent or not using HE detergent can lead to a buildup of residue inside the washer, or on the rubber door seal.
Foreign debris can also cause problems, coins, pens, sunglasses, bobby pins, safety pins, razor blades, jewelry, and many other items have been found clogging washing machine pumps. The pump being clogged can cause it to not pump out as much water as it should and lead to an odor problem or even damaging the pump. Small clothes such as baby clothes, or children’s socks can also get through to the pump and clog or damage it, using a laundry bag for small items is an easy way to eliminate that danger.
To prevent issues with an odor or buildup in your washer you can follow these helpful tips:
• Always leave the door and dispenser slightly ajar after each load
• Clean out pockets of clothes before washing them
• Use a laundry bag for small items.
• Never leave a wet load in the washer overnight
• Check the door seal and drum for debris and clothes after each load
• Always use HE detergents
• Occasionally wash some loads in warm or hot water
• Clean washer as per your Owner’s Manual
If you have issues with an odor or buildup in your washer you can follow these helpful tips:
• Clean washer as per your Owner’s Manual
• Thoroughly clean door seal, dispenser and tub
• Run a cleaning cycle with a cleaner such as Affresh or Washer Magic
Please Follow this Blog,Follow us on Twitter, Like us on Facebook or visit our Website
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