Category: Repairs

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Common Mobile Home Electrical Issues and How to Fix Them

Mobile homes offer a unique lifestyle, but they can come with their own set of challenges, especially when it comes to electrical systems. Understanding common mobile home electrical issues can save you time, money, and frustration. Let’s explore some frequent problems and how to address them effectively.

1. Flickering Lights

Flickering lights are often a sign of a loose connection or an overloaded circuit. To troubleshoot this issue, start by checking the light fixture and its wiring. If you’re unsure, it’s best to contact a qualified electrician to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.

2. Outdated Wiring

Many older mobile homes may still have aluminum wiring, which can pose safety risks. If you notice any signs of wear or corrosion, consider upgrading to copper wiring. This change not only enhances safety but can also improve the overall efficiency of your electrical system.

3. Overloaded Circuits

With the increasing number of devices we use, it’s easy to overload circuits in a mobile home. If you find that your circuit breakers are tripping frequently, it may be time to reevaluate your power usage. Distributing devices across multiple circuits can help manage the load.

4. GFCI Outlet Issues

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are crucial in preventing electrical shocks, especially in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms. If a GFCI outlet keeps tripping, it may indicate a problem with the outlet itself or an underlying issue in the circuit. Regular testing of these outlets can ensure they are functioning correctly.

5. Dead Outlets

Dead outlets can be frustrating, but they often indicate a tripped breaker or a blown fuse. Check your breaker box and reset any tripped breakers. If the outlet still doesn’t work, it may require further inspection by an electrician.

6. Faulty Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are a critical safety feature in any home. If your smoke alarms are chirping or not functioning, check the batteries first. If issues persist, consider replacing the unit or calling a professional to inspect the wiring.

7. Inadequate Lighting

Many mobile homes have limited natural light, making it essential to ensure that your artificial lighting is sufficient. If you find certain areas are too dim, consider upgrading to brighter LED bulbs or adding additional fixtures. Task lighting can also help in areas like kitchens or home offices, enhancing functionality while improving the overall ambiance of your space.

8. Electrical System Age

The age of your electrical system can significantly impact its performance and safety. If your mobile home is older, it might not meet current electrical standards. Consider scheduling a professional electrical inspection to assess the system’s condition. This proactive step can help identify potential hazards before they escalate, ensuring your home remains safe and energy-efficient.

Conclusion

Addressing mobile home electrical issues promptly can prevent more significant problems down the line. Regular maintenance and safety checks are key to ensuring your home remains a safe and comfortable space. If you encounter persistent issues or need expert assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to GSI, where we provide reliable solutions for all your mobile home needs.

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Preparing Your Mobile Home for Winter

Winter is on the horizon, and if you live in a mobile home, it’s crucial to get your home ready for the cold months ahead. With temperatures dropping and snow potentially on the way, proper preparation will not only keep you warm but also protect your mobile home from potential damage. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a complete checklist focusing on windows, doors, and insulation to ensure your mobile home is winter-ready. For professional assistance and trusted service to help with your winter prep, reach out to experienced local experts today.

1. Inspect and Seal Windows

  1. Check for Drafts: Start by inspecting each window for drafts. On a chilly day, run your hand around the edges to feel for any cold air leaking through. If you find drafts, it’s time to take action.
  2. Use Weatherstripping: Apply weatherstripping around the edges of your windows. This simple and affordable solution helps to seal gaps and prevent cold air from entering. Choose weatherstripping made of foam or rubber for the best results.
  3. Apply Window Insulation Film: Window insulation film is another effective way to improve thermal efficiency for your mobile home. This film is easy to apply and creates an extra layer of insulation by reducing heat loss through the glass.
  4. Check Window Seals: Inspect the seals around your windows for any cracks or damage. If you find any issues, repair or replace the window as needed. Broken seals can lead to significant heat loss and higher energy bills.

2. Secure and Insulate Doors

  1. Inspect Door Frames: Examine the frames of all exterior doors for any gaps or damage. A well-sealed door is crucial for maintaining a consistent indoor temperature.
  2. Install Door Sweeps: Attach door sweeps to the bottom of each door to block drafts. These sweeps, which are available in various materials, such as rubber or bristle, help close the gap between the door and the threshold.
  3. Use Weatherstripping on Doors: Like with windows, apply weatherstripping around the edges of your doors. Ensure that the weatherstripping is properly adhered and covers any gaps to prevent cold air from entering.
  4. Check Door Closures: Ensure that your doors close securely. If there are any issues with the latches or hinges, address them promptly to avoid heat loss and ensure that your doors remain tightly sealed.

3. Insulate Your Mobile Home

  1. Add Insulation to Walls: Inspect the insulation in your mobile home’s walls. If you find that it is lacking or damaged, consider adding more insulation. This will help to keep the heat inside and reduce your heating costs.
  2. Insulate the Underbelly: The underbelly of your mobile home is often exposed to the elements and can be a significant source of heat loss. Adding insulation to this area can help to keep your home warmer. Use materials designed for mobile home underbelly insulation, such as skirting, foam board or fiberglass batts.
  3. Insulate the Floor: If your mobile home has a crawl space or uninsulated floors, consider adding insulation underneath. This can be particularly effective in preventing heat loss through the floorboards.
  4. Check and Repair Roof Insulation: Inspect the insulation in your mobile home’s roof. If there are any gaps or areas that need attention, repair or replace the insulation as needed. Proper roof insulation helps to keep your home warmer and reduces the risk of ice dams forming.

4. Additional Tips

  1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Before winter arrives, clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and potentially damage your mobile home’s roof.
  2. Inspect Skirting: Ensure that the skirting around your mobile home is secure and in good condition. Proper skirting helps to insulate the space underneath your home and prevent cold air from entering.
  3. Check for Roof Leaks: Inspect your roof for any signs of leaks or damage. Addressing these issues before winter will help to prevent further damage and keep your mobile home dry and warm.

Preparing your mobile home for winter is essential for maintaining comfort and preventing damage. By focusing on windows, doors, and insulation, you can create a warmer and more energy-efficient living space. Follow this checklist to ensure your home is ready for the cold months ahead. Stay warm and cozy, and look out for our next blog in November, where we’ll dive into HVAC maintenance for winter!

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Spring into Action: Essential Mobile Home Maintenance Tasks for the Season

mobile home maintenance

As the winter frost gives way to the warmth of spring sunshine, shed your layers and prepare for some spring “cleaning”! While nature undergoes its seasonal transformation, your mobile home is begging for a little transformation of its own. Give your mobile or manufactured home a little TLC to ensure it is ready for the seasons ahead! Let General Supply Inc. guide you through essential mobile home maintenance tasks that will help you get your home cleaned up and in top shape for spring! 

Mobile Home Exterior Inspection and Cleaning

Start tackling your spring maintenance task list by giving the exterior of your mobile or manufactured home a thorough inspection. Check for any signs of damage, such as loose or missing siding, damaged skirting, or issues with the roof. Clean the exterior surfaces to remove dirt, grime, and any debris that may have accumulated during the winter months. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your home but also helps prevent potential long-term damage.

Mobile Home Roof and Gutter Maintenance

Inspecting your mobile home’s roof is a crucial step in preventing leaks and water damage. Be sure to check for loose or damaged shingles, and repair or replace them as needed. Clear out any debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Proper drainage is essential for preventing water buildup, which can lead to roof leaks and other structural issues.

Mobile Home Window and Door Inspection

Your mobile or manufactured home’s insulation, airflow and air quality can be affected by your windows and doors. Check for any gaps or drafts around windows and doors and seal them, if necessary. Consider lubricating hinges and locks to ensure smooth operation. Clean, inspect and repair your window screens to allow for optimal airflow and natural light. 

Mobile Home HVAC System Maintenance

As temperatures rise, your mobile or manufactured home’s HVAC system may need some attention. Be sure to change the air filters to improve indoor air quality and ensure efficient operation. If you use a window air conditioner, be sure to clean the filters and coils. Schedule a professional HVAC inspection with General Supply Inc. to identify and address any potential issues before they arise. 

Mobile Home Plumbing Inspection

Leaks and water damage can often spawn from your mobile or manufactured home’s plumbing system. To spot any leaks or water damage, check for any water stains, dripping faucets, sagging areas or leaky pipes. Check your seals and gaskets for wear and tear and if needed, replace them to avoid leakage. Ensure your water heater is functioning correctly and flush out sediment, if necessary. Be sure to check for leaks in your bathrooms, kitchen or any other room that holds plumbing. 

Mobile Home Pest Control Management

Spring brings with it a variety of pests and it’s essential to take preventive measures to help avoid any damages they may cause to your mobile home. Inspect the perimeter of your mobile or manufactured home’s exterior for any openings that may serve as entry points for pests. Seal cracks and crevices, and consider applying pest control treatments around the exterior of your home. Inside, check for signs of damage caused by these pests and address any issues, promptly.

Mobile Home Seasonal Maintenance

Spring is the perfect time to get out, enjoy the sunshine and show your mobile home some extra love by tackling these essential maintenance tasks. By investing a little time and effort now, you can ensure that your home remains comfortable, efficient, and in peak condition to weather the changing seasons. With a well-maintained mobile or manufactured home, you can enjoy the beauty of spring with peace of mind, knowing that your home is ready for whatever this season brings.

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DIY Plumbing Repairs in Mobile Homes: Navigating Freezing Pipes and Other Cold-Weather Concerns

working on plumbing

Living in a mobile home offers a unique lifestyle, but when winter brings its bitterly cold temperatures, it can also bring a series of challenges, especially to your plumbing. General Supply Inc., understands the impact of frigid weather on mobile homes and the common problem it brings—freezing pipes. In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore DIY troubleshooting and fixes for plumbing issues in mobile homes, with a particular focus on the notorious challenge of freezing pipes.

Understanding Freezing Pipes in Mobile Homes

Mobile homes, with their exposed plumbing and often lighter insulation, are susceptible to freezing pipes in harsh winter conditions. When water inside the pipes freezes, it expands, creating pressure that can lead to pipe bursts and significant water and structure damage. Recognizing the signs and taking prompt action is essential to avoid costly repairs.

Signs of Frozen Pipes

  • Reduced or no water flow from faucets.
  • Unusual odors indicate water flow issues.
  • Frost or bulging on visible pipes.

Thawing Frozen Pipes: A DIY Approach

When faced with frozen pipes, quick and safe action is necessary to prevent further damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to thaw frozen pipes in your mobile home:

  • Locate the frozen part of the pipe, often indicated by visible frost or bulging
  • Shut off the main water supply to prevent additional water from entering the frozen section
  • Relieve pressure by opening the affected faucet
  • Safely thaw the pipe using a hairdryer, heat lamp, or electric heating pad. Begin at the faucet end and work towards the frozen section, avoiding open flames

Preventive Measures: Guarding Against Freezing Pipes

Preventing freezing pipes is the best approach to cold-weather plumbing issues in mobile homes. Consider these preventive measures:

  • Insulate exposed pipes: Add insulation or heat tape to exposed pipes, especially those in crawl spaces and under the home
  • Ensure skirting, doors, and windows are well-sealed to prevent cold air infiltration
  • On exceptionally cold nights, allow faucets to drip slightly to keep water flowing
  • Provide warm air circulation by keeping cabinet doors open if plumbing runs through them

In addition to addressing freezing pipes, empowering yourself with general plumbing know-how can contribute significantly to the overall well-being of your mobile home. Here are some DIY plumbing tips to keep your plumbing system in optimal condition: 

  • Regularly inspect faucets and fixtures for leaks or signs of wear
  • Replace worn-out washers or gaskets to prevent dripping
  • Flush the water heater tank annually to remove sediment buildup
  • Periodically inspect all visible pipes for signs of corrosion, rust, or leaks
  • Follow a regular pumping schedule for your septic tank to avoid backups
  • Keep a basic plumbing toolkit that includes a plunger, pipe wrench, and plumber’s tape for quick fixes
  • Address minor leaks promptly with pipe sealant or epoxy putty
  • Insulate outdoor faucets with faucet covers or foam sleeves
  • Apply weatherstripping to doors and windows to prevent drafts
  • Familiarize yourself with the location of the main water shut-off valve
  • Clearly label individual shut-off valves for fixtures and appliances

Winter weather can be harsh on mobile home plumbing, but armed with the right knowledge and DIY solutions, you can safeguard your home against freezing temperatures. Take proactive measures to insulate pipes, address drafts, and keep the water flowing even in the coldest weather. By implementing these winter-ready and general DIY tips, you’ll ensure a cozy and leak-free mobile home all year round.

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The Best Heating and Cooling System for Mobile Homes

a technician repairing a heating and cooling system

Don’t let choosing between new furnaces get you flustered! We know there are a lot of HVAC brands to choose from. That’s why, at General Supply Inc., our heating and cooling experts are happy to bring you our top 2 recommended HVAC brands for your mobile home!

General Supply Inc. has been a trusted name in Indiana heating and cooling manufactured homes for over 25 years, so fill up your cup of joe, grab a seat, and get to reading to find your best HVAC fit!

Heating and Cooling Systems We Recommend for Mobile and Manufactured Homes

Miller

Meet Miller, the reliable name in the heating and cooling game! Known for its tech smarts and solid performance, Miller HVAC systems make sure your mobile home stays comfortable all year round!

Why Miller is our jam for Heating and Cooling Systems:

  • User-friendly tech for top-notch heating and cooling.
  • No surprises here, Miller HVAC systems keep the comfort levels steady in your mobile home.
  • Super easy to use and take care of, which means it’s a breeze for you!

Revolv

Say hello to Revolv, the specialist for manufactured homes! These guys are all about quality and making sure you’re one happy mobile homeowner with their efficient heating and cooling solutions.

Why Revolv Heating and Cooling Systems are our pick:

  • Made-to-order solutions for manufactured homes
  • Packed with high-quality parts for a reliable performance show.
  • Bonus: They’ve got your back with some solid warranty options, which means extra peace of mind for you!

Repairing Your Heating and Cooling System

Winter is no time for your mobile home’s HVAC unit to go down, but if you think it might be on the fritz, here’s what to look out for:
Strange noises or funny smells coming from your HVAC unit
Inconsistent temperatures throughout your mobile home
Higher-than-usual energy bills
Cycling on and off

Whether you need a repair or replacement, General Supply Inc. is here for you!

Choosing the Right HVAC Unit for Your Manufactured Home

Look, we get it! Picking the right heating and cooling system for your mobile or manufactured home is a big deal.

At General Supply Inc, we’re all about Miller and Revolv. They each bring something special to the table, and our experienced HVAC team is ready to help you install the one that fits you.

General Supply Inc is here for all your HVAC needs! Call us today to chat about our Indiana furnace installation options.

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Preparing Your Mobile Home for Fall

blog_image_Aug

As the leaves finish falling and winter creeps ever closer, it’s important to ensure that your mobile or manufactured home is well-prepared for the upcoming changes in weather! At General Supply Inc, we understand the importance of a well-maintained mobile home, and that’s why General Supply Inc is here to provide you with a comprehensive guide to preparing your manufactured home for the winter season!

Stay Proactive

The #1 rule for owning a mobile home? STAY PROACTIVE!

Unlike traditional homes, manufactured homes require a little more seasonal planning. To ensure your family stays warm and your home stays cozy this winter, there are a number of things you can do to prepare. Here are a few of them:

Check on your furnace

  • Inspect your furnace for any scratches, dents
  • Look into any strange smells
  • Replace the filter

Winterize your roof

  • The edges, seams, and expansion joints on your metal roof need to be checked and sealed every year

Check the skirting

  • Protect your manufactured home with skirting
  • Keep animals OUT, and extra heat IN 
  • Skirting provides extra insulation to your pipes so they don’t freeze and burst.

Insulate, insulate, insulate 

  • Late Fall or early winter is a great time to make sure your mobile home is properly insulated for the upcoming season with heat tape and pipe insulation
  • A proactive approach to maintenance is the first step to ensuring your mobile home stays comfortable in the fall and winter. For more fall and winter resources, see the links at the bottom of this blog!

Need a pro to help you with your roof, skirting, furnace, or pipe insulation? We’re here to help! 

Prioritize Insulation

This season brings fluctuating temperatures, which means that proper insulation is a key factor to your comfortability. While you are checking your skirting to ensure there are no dents or cracks, take a moment to decide whether adding insulation would be worth it for your manufactured home. 

At General Supply Inc, we will always recommend that our customers insulate their pipes and use heat tape to help maintain a consistent indoor temperature! If you are looking for help insulating your pipes this fall and winter season, we’d be happy to chat! Call us to learn more.

Call the Pros

Whether you’re a mobile home expert, or a manufactured home newbie, General Supply is here to help. From DIY projects to installations handled by us, we want your mobile home to feel like your sanctuary. Call us today for any questions about your mobile or manufactured home!

 

Additional Mobile Home Resources

Fall Furnace Tips

Winterizing Your Mobile Home

Skirting Your Mobile Home

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Insulate Your Mobile Home

insulate_mobile_home

Home sweet mobile home! Your manufactured home is everything to your family, and when the seasons change, it’s important to remember that giving it a little extra TLC is never a bad thing! The reality of owning a mobile home is making those much-needed seasonal updates to keep your family comfortable. When the weather changes from hot to cold, a well-insulated manufactured home becomes a *literal* hot commodity!

If you’re not sure what steps to take when it comes to insulating your mobile home, keep reading below to find out! 

Still need help? Call the mobile home pros! 

Insulate the Walls

To prevent the blustery wind from creeping into your mobile home, you must insulate the walls! If you have the time and the gumption, filling every wall with insulation is going to be your BEST bet. However, if time is of the essence, start with your bedroom to keep you cozy during chilly fall and winter nights!

Don’t forget to check on your roof too! Because heat rises, it’s important to keep as much heat as possible inside the home, rather than finding its way out of the roof!

Put Down Layers

Insulation also happens at the GROUND level! After you’ve insulated your walls, you can move on to your floors. You can quickly, easily, and efficiently insulate the floors of your manufactured home by purchasing rugs. Rugs in all sizes are a cost-effective way to add insulation to your mobile home and will help keep the heat in when it turns cold!

Protect the Pipes

Another important part of your mobile home to consider insulating is the crawlspace, or underbelly, of your manufactured home. To avoid hefty plumbing expenses in the cooler months, consider purchasing foam pipe insulation and heat tape from General Supply Inc to keep your pipes nice and warm! Pipe insulation and heat tape are used to prevent your pipes from freezing or bursting during the fall and winter seasons!  

Adding insulation to your pipes is not an expensive undertaking, but properly insulating is your mobile home’s first defense against this BIG potential problem. While you are busy adding more to your home’s insulation, don’t forget about your pipes!

We want you to feel confident that you are prepared for the changing seasons in your mobile or manufactured home! Whether you have questions about the best R-value for your situation, or you need to call and chat with our HVAC specialists about furnace issues, General Supply Inc is here for you!

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Indianapolis’s Choice for HVAC Service

Manufactured and mobile home owners deserve reliable heating and cooling. At General Supply Inc, we are passionate about your family feeling comfortable at home. Our goal at GSI is to make comfort as simple as pushing a button on your thermostat.

If your current HVAC system can’t keep up, it may be time for a new system or just a simple repair. To find out what your heating and cooling system needs to keep you comfortable, keep reading! If you’re in need of an AC repair, call the Central Indiana experts in manufactured home HVAC.

Indiana HVAC Unit Installation

The Indiana summer months are sweltering, and if your AC unit is in need of repair, your mobile home can get miserable, and fast! We understand the urgency of staying cool during the scorching Indiana summers, which is why our HVAC unit installation services are designed to be efficient and hassle-free. 

Our team of experts will work diligently to have your new unit up and running promptly, so you can enjoy the comfort you deserve.

Here are a few signs your HVAC unit might need a repair or replacement:

  • Your AC is breaking down
  • Your energy bills keep increasing
  • Your HVAC system is 10+ years old
  • Your unit is making hissing or clicking noises
  • You are experiencing inconsistent temperatures throughout your home

Remember, when it comes to quick, reliable, HVAC unit installation, there is no better choice than General Supply Inc!

Indiana’s Top HVAC Service Provider

General Supply Inc is proud to be Indiana’s top HVAC service provider and #1 pick for HVAC installation! We have passionately served the state of Indiana since 1993 and have built a team of hoosiers who love their fellow citizens as their own.

General Supply’s team has a combined 100+ years of service experience within the manufactured housing industry, so you can feel confident knowing we manufactured homes are second nature to us!

We are committed to offering affordable HVAC services using on-site HVAC specialists, without compromising on quality. Whether you need a new installation, repairs, or regular maintenance, our cost-effective solutions and flexible financing options make it easier for you to get the HVAC services you require while staying within your budget.

Check out our HVAC financing options or call to schedule us to come out and assess your needs. Don’t let the heat get the best of you and your home—trust General Supply Inc for reliable HVAC unit installation and exceptional service in Indiana!

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Preparing Your Mobile Home for Spring

blog_image_april

The cold, blustery winter season is behind us and it’s on to warmer weather and more time outside! When you own a mobile home, spring is an important time! After every severe weather season, you must evaluate the skirting on your home to ensure it’s in good shape. So, how can you make sure your skirting is ready for a new season? Keep reading to find out!

Inspect the Skirting

When it’s time to inspect the skirting around your mobile or manufactured home, what should you look for? First things first, look closely for any gaps, cracks, or holes that happened during the winter months. You’ll also want to look out for signs of general wear and tear, as well as any damages and determine if repairs are necessary. If you find your skirting does need to be replaced, you can call us for a free estimate!

Scrub the Skirting

After you’ve done your initial inspection and determined your skirting is in good shape, you’ll want to give your skirting a good scrub! Remove any dirt or debris with a pressure washer and a high-quality scrub brush. We suggest using a cleaning solution that is designed to clean your mobile or manufactured home so you know the job is done right the first time. 

Remember, if you find any gaps, cracks, or holes, it’s best to talk with an expert about your best method for repair.

Check the Insulation

While you’re checking on the skirting of your mobile or manufactured home, it’s a great time to evaluate your insulation needs. You’ll need to decide if adding insulation would be beneficial for your manufactured home. We always recommend our customers insulate their mobile homes to better regulate the temperature inside the house.

Making sure your mobile home is in good shape starts with you! Frequently inspect your skirting and insulation to make sure your mobile home is not in need of repair. Take precautions to seal or repair gaps or cracks as soon as you see them. If you’re not sure what steps to take when it comes to caring for your mobile or manufactured home, General Supply Inc is here to help!

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The Benefits of Skirting Your Manufactured Home

Skirting is an important investment for every mobile or manufactured homeowner! While you might not be ready to install skirting on your mobile home just yet, it’s good to consider the benefits that skirting can provide, beyond just aesthetic appeal!

So, how can skirting protect, style, and benefit your Indiana mobile or manufactured home? Keep reading!

Protecting Your Mobile or Manufactured Home

First things first, let’s talk about protecting your investment! Your mobile house is your home. It requires maintenance, repairs, love, and sometimes, an upgrade. Skirting is an easy upgrade that protects your manufactured home in a big way by keeping bugs and animals OUT, and extra heat IN. During the winter, skirting also provides extra insulation to your pipes so they don’t freeze and burst. 

Speaking of winter, skirting allows your home to maintain a warmer environment through the cold season so your HVAC system isn’t doing all the heavy lifting. The same is true for cool temps in the summer. Talk about energy savings!

Styling Your Mobile or Manufactured Home

There are many reasons to install skirting on your mobile home, but, let’s be real, how it looks IS ONE OF THEM! 

You want your home to look great, and skirting can help. With options to fit every homeowner’s style, our simulated brick, faux stone. and aluminum skirting options are available for purchase and installation at General Supply Inc!

Skirting from General Supply also gives a mobile home a more robust appearance by hiding the structural underbelly of your manufactured home. Skirting can make a home appear sturdy and more permanent. Skirting also improves your home’s curb appeal and increases the value of your home and neighborhood. 

Investing in Your Mobile or Manufactured Home


As we said before, your mobile home is an investment. To keep the maintenance bills from piling up, it’s important to be proactive in protecting and managing the needs of your home. Skirting is an investment that looks good, provides immense protection, and most times, is required by lenders when it comes time to refinancing or selling your manufactured home.

If you’re thinking about adding skirting to your mobile home’s to-do list, call General Supply Inc. (hyperlink to contact: https://mobilehomepartspro.com/contact-us/) so we can walk you through the skirting process for your Indiana mobile home!

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Winter Furnace Repair Services

Winter is here and it’s time to make sure your furnace is ready! Reliable heating for your mobile home in the winter is something every manufactured home owner deserves. To ensure warm heat is blowing out of your vents all year long, it’s important to know the signs of a furnace that needs a little TLC from our Indiana HVAC repair specialists.

Does Your Furnace Need Service?

Your family doesn’t need extra stress in the winter, and a broken furnace can cause a whole lot of it. Furnaces aren’t just there to keep you comfortable, they help to keep your family and pets safe when the temperatures get low!

You might be wondering, how do I know if my HVAC system needs a tune-up or repair? In our experience, you’ll know that your furnace needs a service when… 

  • You can smell a strong odor coming from your vents or ducts
  • You smell something that is similar to gas or burning
  • Your vents are blowing cold air
  • Your furnace is not working at all
  • Your thermostat doesn’t match the temperature in the house
  • Rattlings sounds or other abnormalities coming from your HVAC system

Are any of these happening to you? If so, contact us ASAP! When you need furnace repairs or installation in Indianapolis, you can count on General Supply Inc. We are a family-owned and operated business with over 25 years of HVAC experience. From simple maintenance to major repairs, our trained technicians can give you a free estimate on your furnace repair.

Indiana’s Best Furnace Repair 

It takes a lot to be trusted as Indiana’s best furnace repair company. At General Supply Inc, we are committed to getting your furnace up and working so your family can stay warm, especially on those long, chilly nights! With our 25 years of experience, furnace issues are no match for our Indiana HVAC specialists. Our quality customer service representatives and HVAC specialists are here to answer any questions you may have about the heating unit in your mobile or manufactured home. We service all brands of heating equipment so you never have to wonder if General Supply Inc. can help! 

If your furnace is on the fritz, the temperatures on the thermostat aren’t matching, or you hear a funny noise coming from your heating unit, General Supply Inc. Indiana is your ‘who to call’! 

Our HVAC specialists are here for you. You can contact us for any questions or to schedule your HVAC service.

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Troubleshooting Your A/C

troubleshooting_a_c

When it comes to air conditioning, sometimes what appears to be a big problem can be a simple and inexpensive fix. During the summer months when the humidity is high and the temperatures are soaring, it is not uncommon to have a capacitor fail in your outside condensing unit. Unfortunately, it will often fail at the worst time, leaving you without cool air in the summer heat. The good news is this is not an expensive part to replace. However, you should not attempt to replace it yourself. This is a repair best left to the professionals, so be sure to call an HVAC contractor to handle this service for you. There are many varieties of capacitors available, and it is crucial that yours is replaced with the correct model and specification

If your A/C unit fails to cool your home, there are some things you can do to troubleshoot that will save you time and money before calling a professional contractor.

1. Check your thermostat

Ensure your thermostat is set to cool and the fan is set to “on” or “auto”.  Make a note of what the temperature is in your home and what temperature your thermostat is set at for cooling.

2. Check your air filter

In most cases, your air filter will be in or near your furnace. Make sure that it is not excessively covered with dust, lint, or pet hair and that air is flowing back to your furnace. This is especially important in manufactured homes as they often do not have a return air system built into the home. With an electric furnace, the filters may be metal and sitting on top of your a-coil. This may be a good time to remove and wash that filter and then replace it back on your unit. With a gas furnace in your mobile home, the filter is most likely inside your furnace door. If it is dirty or clogged, now is a good time to remove and replace it. If you do not have a replacement filter handy, leave the dirty one off but get a replacement as soon as possible. Do not leave your furnace without a filter for more than a day.

3. Check your floor registers

Make sure all your floor registers are open and there are no restrictions for air moving through these registers.

4. Check your circuit breaker

Open your main electrical box and look for a double pole breaker that should be marked as A/C unit or compressor. A double pole breaker is two breakers tied together, usually 20 to 30 amps in size. Some older units could have an even larger breaker. If this breaker looks like it has been tripped, reset it by pulling the breaker all the way over to the off position and then returning it to the on position. Do not attempt to replace this breaker by yourself. If the breaker will not reset, call a licensed professional immediately.

5. Check your outside A/C or heat pump condenser

Look to see if the fan on your outside unit is moving and blowing warm air from your unit. Listen for the compressor inside your unit to see if you can hear it running. There will often be a data plate on the outside of the unit. Take a picture of it with your phone if you can or try to write down the model and serial number of the unit if it is available. Also, look for any ice build-up on your outside A/C unit. If the coil is covered with ice or you see excessive ice around the copper lines coming to your unit, turn the unit off right away. Call your HVAC professional and let them know that your unit has ice around it. This is usually an indication that your unit is low on refrigerant or that there is not enough air moving back to the furnace. The same applies if you see excessive ice around the a-coil located in your furnace cavity. Again, turn the A/C off immediately and call your professional. While you’re outside, check your outdoor A/C unit coils for any cottonwood, grass clippings, dust, or other debris. Hosing off these items can increase the performance of your A/C.

Taking these steps may bring your A/C or heat pump back on to the cool position. If it does, congratulate yourself on saving the cost of a house call and needless repair, not to mention getting a cooler home when you need it. If there is still an issue, contact a reputable HVAC service technician and provide them with the information you have gathered up from these notes. This will save you time and money by providing the technician with valuable information that will allow them to be better prepared to fix your A/C unit on the first call.

If your compressor is still not blowing cool air and your unit is less than seven years old, there is a good chance that the capacitor has failed. If so, your technician will have you up and running again in no time at all and at a cost that won’t break the bank. Don’t forget to schedule regular HVAC maintenance appointments, with spring and fall clean and checks, to keep your systems in top shape. If you are looking for a qualified technician but don’t know who to call, contact your rep at General Supply, and they will be glad to be of assistance.

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Tune Up Your A/C for Summer Maintenance

If the A/C unit in your manufactured home is struggling to keep up with the summer heat, it may be time for a seasonal tune up. High temps can strain your A/C system leading to lowered energy efficiency and even system failure. With regular maintenance, you can identify and prevent any potential issues. Here’s three easy ways to tune up your A/C for the summer:

Change Air Filter

An air filter plays an important role in your modular or manufactured home by keeping dust and debris out of your HVAC system. Cleaning or replacing your air filter every one to three months prevents this debris from accumulating and circulating around your home. A fresh air filter also increases energy efficiency and maximizes clean air flow. If you have children or indoor pets in your home, it is even more important to stay on top of air filter replacements.

Clear Away Debris

With a central A/C system, clearing away debris from the outdoor condenser unit allows it to run efficiently in summer weather. A good rule of thumb is to keep any landscaping at least two feet away. This means trimming back any overgrown shrubs and trees that may be too close to your A/C unit. You’ll also want to clear away any old leaves, dirt, or other debris that may cause blockages. For a deeper clean, you can also clean the coils and fins in your unit when they get dirty (learn how here). 

Schedule Professional Maintenance

To give your A/C system an extra boost, a best practice is to schedule an HVAC tune up twice a year. For your A/C in the spring and your furnace in the fall, call your HVAC company to perform professional inspection and testing. The experts will check for any leaks, loose connections, and proper airflow to help maintain your system and locate any damage. Investing in professional maintenance at regular intervals will ensure the long-term health of your A/C system, saving you in repair or replacement costs down the road.

With regular maintenance, you can keep your A/C system running smoothly so you can stay comfortable and cool inside during the summer months. The time you spend on a quick tune up now will help you prevent an unexpected A/C emergency when it gives out on a hot summer day. If your mobile or manufactured home A/C system does need repair or replacements, you can find all the parts you need here at General Supply, Inc.