Fast Fixes For Issues When Staying At a Beach Vacation Rental

Each vacation rental home is different. While our Guest Experience Specialists are happy to come out and help resolve any issues, there are some easy fixes for simple issues that may arise. To help get guests to resolution faster, we’ve compiled some of the most common problems, and simple things to try for a quick fix.

The TV is not working.

Start by resetting the cable box and/or internet router by powering it off for 30 seconds and turning it back on. (*Never hold down the reset button on the modem/router as it causes a factory reset.) Each rental home offers different streaming services and/or Cox Cable. Use “input” to move between options. For Cox Cable, make sure you have the correct HDMI selected under “Input”.   

The outlet/electrical socket has no power.

If you’re not getting power, start by pressing the GFI breakers (the buttons in the middle of the electric outlet). If this does not work, check the fuse box (which may be located inside or outside the home within the garage, balcony, or patio) to ensure all breakers are on.

The refrigerator is not cold.

It takes an extended amount of time for the refrigerator to cool down after adding many items, including room temperature items, to an empty fridge. For optimal cooling, keep the refrigerator and freezer set at mid-cool setting and keep items away from cooling vents for proper air circulation. It may take up to 24 hours for the refrigerator to cool all your items so consider placing dairy and deli items in first and waiting to put in room temperature items such as cans and bottled drinks.  

The ice maker not making ice.

For health and safety reasons, the ice bin is emptied between guest arrivals. Make sure the metal bar is down to ensure the ice maker is on. If there is still no ice after 24 hours, please contact our office.

The A/C is not cold.

Air conditioning units work hard in Florida’s heat and humidity. A little goes a long way--adjust your setting by no more than 2 degrees per hour to ensure a gradual reduction in temperature. Also, it is critical to keep all doors and windows closed while AC is running to prevent the unit from locking up due to moisture in the system. If the temperature remains warm, please contact our office.

Having trouble with the door lock.

Like any electronic device, keyless door locks require patience. Once you enter your door code and hit “checkmark”, wait for the door to make a grinding/unlocking noise, then turn and open. Once inside, the door does not automatically lock. Simply, turn the thumb lock/deadbolt to lock from the inside. When you leave, simply press any one key on the keypad to lock the door. You may have to pull the door towards you to ensure the pin is lined up correctly. You will hear a chime to confirm it is secured.

The smoke detector is making noise.

If the smoke detector alarm begins to sound and there is visible signs of smoke, leave the home immediately. If you do not see smoke, obtain the fire extinguisher in the kitchen and see if smoke anywhere in the home. If there is no visible sign of smoke, the alarm may have been triggered by the humid coastal air or smoke in the kitchen. If this is the case, simply press the reset button on the outside of the smoke detector. If the beeping continues and you can reach the detector, remove it from wall/ceiling, take out the battery, and hold the reset button until the sound stops. Please contact our office through the Guest Portal or by calling us during normal business hours to request a new battery.

The toilet is not working.

One of the main causes of a clogged toilet is due to wipes. PLEASE DO NOT FLUSH WIPES because even the flushable wipes cause plumbing issues. Due to the high water table and water saver toilets, wipes and/or a large volume of toilet paper can cause a backup and service call. Please throw all wipes in the trash to prevent a potential backup. If the toilet is toilet will not flush or is running, please contact our office through the guest portal or call us during regular business hours.

The garbage disposal isn’t working.

If the garbage disposal in the kitchen sink isn’t working. Start by making sure you’re selecting the correct switch. If still not working, try the reset button on the bottom of the disposal under the kitchen sink. You can also look at the fuse box to make sure the breaker didn’t flip off. If still not working, let us know by submitting a work order through the guest portal or call us during regular business hours. To prevent break downs, PLEASE DO NOT place vegetable peelings (onions, carrots, potatoes, celery), shrimp shells, coffee grounds, eggshells, uncooked pasta/rice, oatmeal, nuts or other hard/dry expandable foods in the garbage disposal.

A loud pool alarm sounds when the backdoor opens.

If your vacation rental has a private pool, a loud alarm sounds every time you enter the backyard. While this can be frustrating, it is illegal to disable the pool alarm--enforceable under Florida State Statute 515.27, which states “all doors and windows providing direct access from the home to the pool must be equipped with an exit alarm that has a minimum sound pressure rates of 85 dB A at 10 feet.” A fine of up to $1000 may be assessed if alarm is tampered with or disabled. While you can’t disable, you can choose to use another door to access the pool from a side gate.

The swimming pool is dirty.

In order for the pool to stay clean, the skimmer must be properly working. Water level should be kept at the middle of the top tile for skimmer to work. Keep skimmer clear of pool toys and debris to maintain proper operation of the pool filtration system. If the water level is low, simply use the garden hose to fill the pool back to mid-tile. If nearby trees, you may wish to use the pool net to scoop floating leaves.

The gas grill won’t light.

If the vacation rental has a private grill, you may need to troubleshoot to get it lit. The grills and propane are checked and cleaned weekly. If it’s not lighting, check and make sure the propane is turned on. If on and out of propane, you can turn off and disconnect from grill. If this happens during business hours, contact us and we’ll bring a new tank to exchange for the empty one. If it is after 5 p.m., you may purchase a tank (DO NOT exchange existing tank) at the nearest convenience store or retailer such as Walmart, Home Depot or Lowe’s and send us the receipt for reimbursement.

There is another type of maintenance issue.

A vacation rental home is a residential home, and on occasion appliances and equipment may break. If you need to report something broken, missing or to request assistance, simply use the “Guest Request” in the guest portal or call us directly to report the problem.

Already ready to come back?

View our growing collection of South Walton and Destin vacation rentals online. Or call us directly at 850-837-1071 to report an issue or book your next beach vacation. Remember to always book direct with Newman-Dailey for our best rate guarantee and no 3^rd party fees.

See you @ the beach!

Published on Thursday, March 16, 2023