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DIY Home Maintenance Guide for Gatekeeper Tenants

Home Maintenance Guide by Gatekeeper.jpg

Taking care of minor home maintenance tasks doesn't need to be stressful. This easy-to-use DIY Maintenance Guide empowers you to tackle the most common household issues quickly, safely, and efficiently—saving you time and ensuring your home stays comfortable year-round. Browse the topics below and click the links to find step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and instructional videos designed specifically for Gatekeeper tenants.​

Disclaimer:

This DIY Maintenance Guide is provided as a general informational resource only and is not intended as professional advice. Gatekeeper Properties assumes no responsibility or liability for injuries, damages, or losses resulting from attempts to follow any DIY instructions provided on this website. You are solely responsible for determining whether you possess the necessary skill, tools, and experience to safely undertake any DIY tasks outlined here. Always prioritize your safety, and if at any point you feel unsure, uncomfortable, unsafe, or unqualified, you should immediately stop, and do not attempt the repair or maintenance yourself. Instead, submit a maintenance request promptly through our Gatekeeper Maintenance Request page.

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By accessing or using this guide, you acknowledge that Gatekeeper Properties cannot be held liable for any accidents, property damage, or bodily injury sustained during or as a result of following these DIY maintenance instructions.

DIY Maintenance Guide – Table of Contents
Click on the issue you're experiencing to find easy step-by-step solutions:

  • Unclogging a Toilet

  • Unclogging Sink or Shower Drains

  • Replacing Light Bulbs and Fixtures Safely

  • Resetting a Tripped Circuit Breaker

  • Replacing Smoke Detector Batteries

  • Changing HVAC Air Filters

  • Fixing a Running Toilet

  • Cleaning and Maintaining Garbage Disposals

  • Fixing a Jammed Garbage Disposal

  • Resetting a GFCI Outlet

  • Re-lighting a Gas Pilot Light (Water Heater/Furnace)

  • Cleaning Dryer Vent and Lint Trap

  • Replacing Refrigerator Water Filter

  • Troubleshooting Washer Issues

  • Troubleshooting Dryer Issues

  • Tightening Loose Door Handles or Hinges

  • Lubricating Squeaky Doors and Cabinets

  • Sealing Drafty Windows and Doors

  • Maintaining Shower Heads and Faucets

  • Cleaning and Defrosting Refrigerator/Freezer

  • Eliminating Mold and Mildew in Bathrooms

  • Cleaning Dishwasher Filter and Spray Arms

  • Pest Infestations – Recommendations & Tips

  • Home Safety & Security Tips

Table of Contents
Unclogging a Toilet

Unclogging a Toilet

Overview:
A clogged toilet is a common household issue that's usually simple to resolve. Most clogs occur due to excessive toilet paper, sanitary products, or foreign objects becoming lodged. A standard plunger can typically solve the problem quickly and efficiently.

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Area: Place towels or newspapers around the toilet base to manage any spills.

  2. Use the Right Plunger: Ensure you’re using a toilet plunger with a flange designed specifically for toilets.

  3. Plunge Properly: Place the plunger securely over the drain hole, creating a tight seal.

  4. Plunge Vigorously: Push down and pull up forcefully with the plunger, repeating 10-15 times.

  5. Check Progress: Flush gently to check if the blockage has cleared; repeat plunging if needed.

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Instructional Video:
▶️ How to Unclog a Toilet – Easy DIY Fix

Helpful Tips:

  • Never flush sanitary products, wipes, or excessive amounts of toilet paper.

  • Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage plumbing.

  • If plunging repeatedly fails, the blockage may require a toilet auger or professional assistance.

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If you're unable, unwilling, or uncomfortable resolving this issue yourself, please stop 🛑 and immediately submit a maintenance request through our Gatekeeper Maintenance Request page.

Unclogging Sink or Shower Drains

Unclogging Sink or Shower Drains

Overview:
Slow-draining or clogged sinks and shower drains often occur due to hair, soap residue, or debris accumulation. Prompt action can help prevent larger plumbing issues and water damage.

 

Step-by-Step Instructions:

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  • ​Remove Visible Debris:

    Put on gloves and remove visible hair or debris around the drain opening.

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  • Use a Drain Auger/Snake (for Deeper Clogs, if needed):

    If the Forlivese Drain Snake doesn't resolve the clog, use a longer and more robust plumbing snake, such as the Drain Auger 25-Foot Plumbing Snake. Insert the snake deeper into the pipe, gently rotating to clear tough clogs, then carefully remove the snake and test again.

     

    Amazon link (Deep snake tool):

    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D4XT6WQ4​

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  • Use a Plunger (if blockage persists):

    Cover overflow openings (if applicable) and firmly seal a cup plunger around the drain.

    Plunge vigorously for about 30 seconds, then test if water drains properly.

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  • Final Hot Water Flush & Plunge:

    Flush thoroughly with hot water to clear any remaining debris or chemical residue.

    Give the drain a final plunge, if necessary, to ensure blockage is fully resolved.

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Instructional Video:
▶️ Top 7 Best Drain Snakes for Home Use

Helpful Tips:

  • Use drain strainers to prevent future clogs.

  • Avoid putting grease, coffee grounds, or heavy food particles into drains.

  • Regularly flush drains with hot water to minimize buildup.

  • Limit chemical cleaner usage to prevent pipe damage.

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If you're unable, unwilling, or uncomfortable resolving this issue yourself, please stop 🛑 and immediately submit a maintenance request through our Gatekeeper Maintenance Request page.

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