Holmes Group
Duct cleaning should be done on a need-to-clean basis, according to the EPA.
Question: What is air duct cleaning and how often should it be done in my home? — Myron
Answer: Dust, dirt, mould, pet hair and other contaminates collect in duct systems. Duct cleaning is the cleaning of heating and cooling parts of forced air systems including the supply and return air ducts, registers, grilles, diffusers, heat exchangers, heating and cooling coils, drip pans, fan motor and fan housing.
The EPA recommends ducts be cleaned on a need-to-clean basis, for example if a family member becomes ill or if family members notice mould odour. It is wise to clean ducts following renovations such as drywall sanding. Duct dryer vent cleaning is also important for the safety of homes as well as reducing energy costs. Blocked dryer vents can cause a fire.
Question: The water level indicator in my electric kettle is edged with brown gunk. What is it and how do I get rid of it? — Lorie
Answer: Depending on your water source, it may be minerals, rust or calcium. All you need to do is boil one cup of vinegar in the kettle. Turn the kettle off and let sit it for a couple of hours. Pour the contents down the drain. Repeat several times a year, as needed.
Question: I do have a problem that I have been trying to solve with all kinds of products. We picked up some tape from the dollar store. It was silver but it sure did work. We decided to install this tape on our windows to stop air leakage in the winter. When I tore the tape off, it was so sticky.
I got some Goo Gone, nail polish remover, wax remover for floors, dish soap and Murphy’s oil soap. Help! That tape left glue that is almost impossible to remove.
I have not tried WD–40 and I wondered about that. Oh, and the windows are vinyl, not wood. Thanks, if you can help. — Donna
Answer: Spray the area with WD-40, leave for 10-20 mins. Scrape with a plastic putty knife. Clean the window to remove the WD-40 smell.
Question: We own metal garage doors. Every time my husband paints them, they seem to peel, even if he uses a primer and/or vinegar before painting. Any solution to this problem would be appreciated. — Marilyn
Answer: Before painting, sand doors with medium-grade sandpaper. Wash doors with T.S.P. and water. Prime doors with rust-inhibiting primer formulated for steel. Leave to dry.
Purchase and apply a sample of latex exterior paint for metal surfaces. Wait a couple of hours and place a strip of masking tape on painted doors.
Remove tape; if paint peels because of humidity or temperature, speak with your paint specialist and try an alternate paint.
Tip of the Week
I used to be frustrated by the white coating that formed on the outside of my outdoor clay pots. But I discovered a way to get rid of the salt deposits by combining equal parts white vinegar, rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Just spray and scrub with a plastic scrubby. — Millie
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca.
