Author name: jmontev

Garbage Disposal

Compost Update – What is needed as of April 9, 2025

/

COMPOST INFORMATION Some updates and addresses regarding composting in the New York City area have been added. It is good maintenance to keep our streets environmentally clean while focusing on discarding our waste properly.  New York City has a mandatory composting program for all residents, meaning you must separate food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard waste from regular trash. Here’s what you need to know: What to Compost: You can compost all food scraps, including meat, bones, shells, dairy, yard waste, and food-soiled paper (like greasy pizza boxes). How to Compost: Use a labeled bin (55 gallons or less) with a secure lid. Line it with clear plastic, paper, or a compostable bag to keep it clean. Collection Schedule: Compost is picked up weekly on your recycling day. Building Requirements: If you live in a building with four or more units, your property manager must provide a designated storage area with labeled compost bins. Enforcement: Starting April 1, 2025, property owners who fail to separate compostable material from trash properly may receive fines. Here are some compost bin locations near Queens, NY: NYC Smart Compost Bin – Located at 300 First Ave Loop, New York, NY.  Montefiore Food Scrap Drop-Off – Located at 871 Prospect Ave, Bronx, NY.  Community Compost Company – Located at 256 Observer Highway, Hoboken, NJ.  If you’re looking to purchase a compost bin, you can check out: The Home Depot (Elmont) – 600 Hempstead Tpke, Elmont, NY, 11003. Call (516) 488-8500. The Home Depot (Flushing) is located at 131 35 Avery Ave, Flushing, NY, 11355. For information, call (718) 358-9600. Composting dramatically benefits the environment, soil, and even your wallet! Here are some key advantages: Reduces Waste – Keeps food scraps and yard waste out of landfills, reducing methane emissions. Improves Soil Health – Adds nutrients, boosts beneficial microbes, and enhances soil structure. Cuts Down on Chemical Fertilizers – Provides natural nutrients, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers that can harm waterways. Conserve water – Helps soil retain moisture, reducing irrigation needs. Fights Climate Change – Lowers greenhouse gas emissions and improves carbon sequestration. Saves Money – Reduces disposal costs and the need for store-bought fertilizers. MORE ON COMPOSTING FROM THE SANITATION DEPT ORIGINAL POST FROM JACK MAINTENANCE 2000 TICKETS ISSUED ON COMPOST CRACKDOWN    

Home Maintenance

Your Home, your travel — Is it Safe?

/

The recent death of a baseball player’s son has brought attention to some issues that we may or may not know are happening in our home and, yes, when we travel. Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, tragically passed away due to carbon monoxide poisoning while on a family vacation in Costa Rica on March 21, 2025. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning remains a serious issue. In 2022, there were 1,244 deaths in the U.S. due to CO poisoning, with 624 being accidental and 579 classified as suicides. Additionally, 511 deaths involved CO but were not directly caused by poisoning—many of these were related to fires. The number of accidental CO poisoning deaths has increased by 85.7% from 2012 to 2022. A major contributor to this rise is the use of portable generators, which have been linked to 40% of CO deaths related to consumer products since 2009. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning occurs when CO gas builds up in the bloodstream, replacing oxygen and leading to severe tissue damage or even death. Since CO is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, it can be difficult to detect without proper precautions. Symptoms CO poisoning symptoms can resemble the flu but without a fever. Common signs include: Headache Weakness Dizziness Nausea or vomiting Shortness of breath Confusion Blurred vision Loss of consciousness Causes CO is produced by burning gas, wood, propane, or charcoal. Poorly vented appliances and enclosed spaces can lead to dangerous CO buildup. Prevention Install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas. Ensure proper ventilation for gas appliances. Never run a car or generator in an enclosed space. Have heating systems and appliances regularly inspected? If you suspect CO poisoning, get into fresh air immediately and seek medical attention. In severe cases, treatment may include oxygen therapy or h When traveling, keeping carbon monoxide (CO) safety in mind is just as important as it is at home. Here’s what to watch out for: 1. Hotel & Rental Safety Check if your hotel or rental has CO detectors installed. Open windows or ensure proper ventilation, especially if there are gas appliances. Never use portable gas stoves, heaters, or charcoal indoors. 2. Transportation & Parking Avoid idling your car for extended periods, especially in garages or enclosed spaces. If renting a car, ensure no exhaust leaks—CO can seep into the cabin. 3. Airplane & Cruise Ship Precautions Some older cruise ships and aircraft can have issues with fuel combustion—if feeling dizzy or nauseous in enclosed spaces, seek fresh air. Be mindful of gas-powered equipment used onboard. 4. Camping & RV Tips Keep generators far from tents, windows, and sleeping areas. Use properly vented heating sources in campers or RVs. Never use charcoal or fuel-burning stoves inside tents. 5. Recognizing CO Symptoms While Traveling Feeling headache, dizziness, nausea, or confusion in an enclosed space? Get fresh air immediately.  

Garbage Disposal

Compost Garbage

/

COMPOST DISPOSAL COMPOST DISPOSAL As of April 1st. NYC requires all to dispose of their edible items properly. This is known as Compost disposal. Products certified or labeled compostable. ALL leaf and yard waste, including flowers and Christmas trees ALL food scraps, including meat, bones, shells, and dairy Prepared and cooked foods Greasy, uncoated paper plates and pizza boxes DO NOT compost trash such as wrappers, pet waste, medical waste, diapers, foam, personal hygiene products, or other items. DO NOT compost metal glass, plastic, cartons, clean paper, and cardboard. How to Compost The Sanitation Dept will pick up ALL leaf and yard waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper in a labeled bin with a secure lid or in your DSNY brown bin. Bins must be 55 gallons or less and have a secure lid. To help keep them clean, line them with clear plastic, paper, or compostable bags. Extra leaf and yard waste can be put in a paper lawn and leaf bag or clear plastic bag. Twigs and branches can be bundled with twine and placed next to bins and bags. Mixed Paper/Cardboard You can recycle mixed paper in a labeled bin with a secure lid or a clear plastic bag. Flatten and bundle corrugated boxes (tie with twine) and set out next to bins or bags. DO NOT use cardboard boxes as bins. Mixed paper You can recycle newspapers and magazines, white and colored paper (staples are ok), envelopes, wrapping paper, paperback books, hardcover books (covers removed), and notebooks (metal or plastic binding removed). Cardboard You can recycle corrugated cardboard, shipping, shoe, and gift boxes, file folders, paper cups (empty and dry), and lightly soiled pizza boxes. NOTE: DO NOT recycle beverage and liquid food cartons (like milk cartons and juice boxes) with paper. They should be recycled with your metal, glass, and plastic. What Cannot Be Recycled Most items that cannot be recycled can be thrown in the trash. Diapers, feminine hygiene products, and wet wipes Face masks and disposable gloves Foam products (Styrofoam, packing peanuts) Hardcover books Heavily soiled paper plates Ice cream tubs Soft tissues, napkins and paper towels Wooden furniture and any items made of wood More information  HERE @ NY.GOV THE COMPOST COLLECTIVE

Battery/Alternator

This type Jump Starter changes everything!

/

Three mechanics show us “Jump Starter” etc. Scotty Kilmer has this YouTube thing that shows all the little nuances that help or hurt our vehicles, what type of cars are dependable, and what keeps our car humming.  With 55 years of experience in car repair, he shares practical car maintenance tips, DIY repair tutorials, and life hacks to help car owners save money and keep their vehicles running smoothly.  In this video, he shows us the value of the portable jump start, a starter that doesn’t have any battery power to start the car. It uses the dead car battery to start itself. Check it out  . . . https://youtu.be/ZMfo4mk3eIw?si=rJpADwfzQlshHF0Q The Car Care Nut provides information on how this product works. https://youtu.be/2c5EvrZ-Cko?si=iDQDZhIdChDSgmsI Or we try certain other products to see what the most versatile a starter can be. https://youtu.be/jlK7UWHD3sY?si=OC6EICG4tKhxwlD5

Exhaust

How to Clean Catalytic Converter/erase p420

/

If the catalytic converter is damaged or aged beyond repair, it’s gone. However, this may not always be the case. This shows that when an engine light (p420) is triggered, the converter may still have life to it. We are interested in prolonging it. https://youtu.be/VcgaTlH2Z60?si=dRvpRkodW4p_LK1- Expectations: Cataclean — long-term or short-term solution? https://youtu.be/Vjens02wssE?si=0NzrTmGlQ1B347Od Maintaining your catalytic converter and addressing the P0420 code involves a few steps: Maintaining Your Catalytic Converter: Regular Inspections: Check your catalytic converter every 30,000 miles for clogs or damage. Use High-Quality Fuel: Opt for top-tier gasoline to prevent deposits and keep your engine clean. Regular Tune-Ups: Keep your engine properly tuned to reduce strain on the converter. Avoid Short Trips: Longer drives help maintain the right exhaust temperatures. Periodic Cleaning: Clean your catalytic converter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles using a catalytic converter cleaner or a soapy water soak. Erasing the P0420 Code: Check Engine Light: If the engine light is on, it’s best to have your car checked by a mechanic. If you have a little knowledge, you can pick up a code reader. They come in many forms, some of which can display the reading on your cellphone. Reset the Code: Disconnect the battery for a few minutes and then reconnect it to reset the code. Inspect the Exhaust System: Look for any leaks or blockages and repair them if necessary. Replace Faulty Parts: If the issue persists, you may need to replace the catalytic converter or oxygen sensor. In conclusion, it is best to eliminate the P420 code a couple of weeks before inspection (in a State where applicable). This will increase the car’s mileage and prevent a faulty converter from triggering when inspection time arrives.  Regarding using some methods, check out the videos on the side and see what could work for you. It may save you a hefty cost of replacing your catalytic converter. https://youtu.be/SVwza8Vo5XE?si=Fakzfh2oG5RP8_Fc Is Seafoam the answer? https://youtu.be/lOlk5vHPr1s?si=gPVE1YMY06kqZPYC

Cleaning

CLEANING INSIDE PART OF WINDSHIELD

/

CLEANING THE INSIDE OF YOUR WINDSHIELD Have you ever looked out while driving and noticed dirt on the windshield, only to clean it at the gas pump and notice that the smudges are still there? Yes, it can be annoying, and yes, it can be—and usually is—grime on the inside of the windshield. And it could be a number of things that cause dirt to appear in front of our eyes. Dirt and grime can appear on the inside of a car’s windshield due to several factors: Off-gassing from Plastics and Vinyl The dashboard and other interior materials release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) over time, especially in hot weather. These compounds condense on the glass, leaving a hazy or greasy film. Dust and Dirt Particles Dust and dirt from shoes, clothing, and the air can circulate inside the car and settle on the glass. Smoking or Vaping Residue Smoke particles and tar can create a sticky residue that clings to the windshield. Human Contact Fingerprints, smudges, and oils from skin contact can leave streaks and marks. Condensation and Moisture Moisture inside the car can attract dirt and lead to water spots or streaks when it dries. Pet Dander and Hair If pets are frequently in the car, their dander and hair can contribute to buildup on the glass. Pollution and Air Vents Outside air entering through vents can carry pollutants and particles that stick to the windshield. MAIN CAUSE Remember that maintenance must be done regularly, perhaps once a month. The humidity in the air can cause a little moisture to form inside your windshield. This attracts dirt that then clings. As the day heats up and the humidity evaporates, that residue remains. This repeats daily, causing a build-up on the cleanest windshields and creating a haze. Regular cleaning with a cleaner and microfiber cloth can help maintain a clear windshield. More on this . . . https://youtu.be/HPqjLxY9ZCk?si=9JWJLbUyz0dU6b43

Battery/Alternator

Parasitic Drain –what causes it?

/

PARASITIC DRAIN — WHAT CAUSES IT? A parasitic drain on a car battery occurs when an electrical component continues to draw power from the battery even when the car is turned off. This can lead to a dead battery and can be quite frustrating. Here are some common causes and steps to diagnose and fix it: Common Causes: Forgotten Lights: Interior lights, trunk lights, or glove box lights left on. Faulty Components: Malfunctioning components like alternators, starters, or ignition switches. Short Circuits: Electrical shorts in the wiring. Stuck Relays: Relays that remain engaged. Aftermarket Electronics: Devices like dash cams or chargers that malfunction. Steps to Diagnose and Fix: Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Use a Multimeter: Set the multimeter to measure current (amps). Connect it between the negative battery terminal and the battery. Check the Drain: A normal drain is around 25-50 milliamps. Anything higher indicates a problem. Pull Fuses: Remove fuses one by one and watch the multimeter. When the current drops, you’ve found the circuit causing the drain. Fix the Issue: Identify and repair the faulty component or wiring Detailed Steps to Diagnose and Fix a Parasitic Drain Disconnect the Battery:Turn off your car and remove the key from the ignition. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal. Use a wrench to loosen the nut and carefully remove the terminal from the battery post. Set Up the Multimeter: Set your multimeter to measure current (amps). Most multimeters have a setting for measuring up to 10 amps, which should be sufficient. Connect the multimeter in series with the negative battery terminal and the battery post. This means connecting one probe of the multimeter to the negative battery cable and the other probe to the negative battery post. Measure the Parasitic Drain Observe the reading on the multimeter.  A normal parasitic drain for most cars is between 25-50 milliamps. If the reading is higher, you have excessive drain. Identify the Problem CircuitWith the multimeter still connected, start pulling fuses one at a time from the fuse box. Note which fuse you pull and observe the multimeter reading after each one. When the reading drops significantly, you’ve found the circuit that is causing the excessive drain. Investigate the Faulty Component Once you’ve identified the problematic circuit, look at what components that fuse powers. Common culprits include interior lights, radio, alarm systems, and aftermarket devices. Check these components for any signs of malfunction, such as staying on when they shouldn’t or unusual behavior.Repair or Replace: Repair or replace the faulty component. This might involve fixing a short circuit, replacing a malfunctioning part, or properly installing aftermarket devices. Tips for Success Safety First: Always ensure the car is turned off and the key is out of the ignition before working on the electrical system. Patience: This process can be time-consuming, but thoroughness is key to finding the problem. Professional Help: If you’re uncomfortable with diagnosing and repairing electrical issues, consider seeking help from an experienced mechanic. These are the steps that should help you identify and fix a parasitic drain on your car battery.  More on finding out causes of battery drain https://youtu.be/zdIKNnwEjIs?si=JJwcCCebKK4UFWTvhttps://youtu.be/1THL6kGNnu8?si=FF7TlTVoDlTTjpEn

Battery/Alternator

Taking Care of the Car Battery & Alternator

/

For those with used cars, a car that doesn’t start can be particularly disturbing because it can be due to an array of problems, but most likely, it comes down to two things — the car battery (most likely, or the alternator that feeds the battery during operation. Nowadays, it can be safely said that as prices go up, the quality and durability have decreased – unfortunately – so it is more important to keep battery maintenance a high priority with a few tips. Proper maintenance can extend the life of your car battery and ensure reliable performance. Here’s a guide to the best practices: Regular Inspection Check the battery terminals: Ensure the terminals are clean, tight, and corrosion-free. Corroded terminals can affect performance. Inspect the battery case: Look for any cracks, swelling, or signs of damage. A swollen battery indicates overheating and needs replacement. Keep It Clean To remove corrosion, Use a mixture of baking soda and water and a wire brush to clean the terminals. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly. Apply anti-corrosion spray or grease: This protects the terminals from future corrosion. Ensure Proper Charging Avoid deep discharges; batteries last longer when kept near full charge. Drive your car regularly to keep the battery charged. If the car isn’t used often, consider using a battery maintainer or trickle charger. Maintain Optimal Fluid Levels For batteries with removable caps, check the electrolyte levels periodically. Use distilled water to top off the electrolyte if levels are low. Never overfill. Test the Battery Use a voltmeter or multimeter to check the voltage regularly. When fully charged, a healthy battery should read 12.6 volts or higher. Have your battery tested professionally during routine maintenance. Protect from Extreme Temperatures Heat: High temperatures can accelerate the battery’s internal chemical reactions, leading to shorter life. When possible, park in shaded areas or garages. Cold: Low temperatures reduce battery performance. If you live in a cold climate, use a battery blanket or insulator. Avoid Excessive Draining Turn off lights, radio, and accessories when the engine is off to prevent battery draining. Ensure all electrical components are off before exiting the car. Secure the Battery Ensure the battery is securely mounted to avoid vibrations that could damage internal components. Replace When Necessary The average car battery lasts 3–5 years. It should be replaced when it shows signs of wear, such as slow starts or frequent charge loss. Small Tips: Keep a portable jump starter in case of emergencies. A good one is small enough to fit under the back seat. Familiarize yourself with your car’s specific battery type and maintenance requirements. You can maximize your car battery’s lifespan and reliability by following these steps.

Scroll to Top