Care Archives

March 2, 2024April 3, 2025

M1 Self Service Repair

Repair, and Fix Tech For Yourselves

M1 Self Service Repair – Apple Documentation

M1 Repair – Self Repair Documentation, Websites etc

Those of you who are not certified, no worries. We use the links below to fix various Apple products, iPhones, iPads, MBP’s (Macbook Pro’s) and this M1 Self Service Repair as noted.

No longer certified? It’s a breeze! Never certified, there are challenges, but this article will help. Two very important links, Self Service Repair – https://support.apple.com/self-service-repair and Parts. So, this article will focus more on the later, when your warranty has expired. Remember, there are options, tried and true, Apple’s Self Service Repair options.

Apple Self Service Repair Options

First, keep in mind, there are always options. We’ve got warranty, approved services providers, and self repair options. Second hand as well, don’t forgot others have gone through similar experiences; a loss of a drive, broken/cracked screen and worse, failed motherboard.

Bare in mind there are options available, specific for the M1 build, or article title, M1 Self Service Repair, even when Apple Care+ warranty has expired. Learn to fix Apple tech yourself. Be sure to do your research, of course. Perhaps, you might want to start here… I’ll let Apple explain the ‘other repair options’ independent repair providers and self service repair. Avenues become limited as the warranty expires or those who can perform the fix on the go.

Next, let’s assume our options are limited for the M1 MBP… the Apple Self Service Repair (resource website) will help with your repair; this assumes you know what you’re doing. Parts can be purchased as well, … also, there is chat support available, where it makes sense. Do your due diligence. Can’t stress this enough, especially those who are just getting into electronics as a hobby, or starting those who can fix friends and family electronics.

Series Continues

Lastly, good luck with your own Self Service Repair, same for the Parts catalog. The build continues on the M1, check out the subsequent articles (5 in total) M1 Refurb, Visual Inspection and Teardown, M1 Touch bar, and Screen & Keys. Enjoy! Friendly reminder, It’s vital to use OEM parts IMO (in my opinion), if you can, second hand via Amazon or eBay. Moreover, the parts list is very helpful for those familiar with the process. If not, don’t be afraid to reach out if you’re in a pinch. Happy to help or help guide you to the right support method/service.

February 15, 2024March 30, 2025

Quick Fix – Pool

A Quick Fix Including Pool Filtration

Solve Water Pressure (Spikes), A Clean Filter and Pump/Pump Filter

Inspect the equipment

On an ongoing basis, it is important to keep the pool filter clean. Additionally, it is crucial to address any leaks and replace parts as needed throughout the lifespan of the pool. Monitoring the filter housing gauge can be helpful in the process. To begin this maintenance task, perform a visual and physical. inspection of the Pentair system, which includes the filter, pressure gauge, and blow-off valve. Be vigilant for any sudden spikes in pressure, as well as any obstacles that may impede proper water flow.

Filter Housing, Filter Change, New Gauge and Blower

Housing Crack

Filter Change

Clean Filter Insert

Inspect Filter Bottom

Filter Housing, Pump – Water Cycle Ecosystem

Along with the filter gauge, proper filter cleaning is necessary. Keeping the pool clean and free of debris is one thing, but keeping the debris and ‘gunk’ out of the system is another. Let’s focus on the main drain(s), pump filter, filter, filter housing and the return.

Chemicals aside, simple maintenance is key. Keeping the main drain clear, the pump filter and the filter cleaned and free of debris is important (simple, right?). Not too often, but when it does, focus on the filter housing gauge. Pressure can build when the filter is not allowing the recommended ‘flow’ back to the pool via the return. The blow off valve, assuming a generic housing, will help eliminate pressure when needing to power down the pump unit to clean the pump filter and clean, remove or replace the filter.

New Parts

Clean Filter Housing

Place Filter

Infilter Insert

New Filter Top

Filter Housing Issue

Let’s skip ahead to the filter housing issue in our quick fix – pool article. First, here is a generic video showing the process of turning off the pool, removing the filter housing top and gaining access to the filter. Unfortunately, the filter housing top deteriorated due to sun exposure, water, contaminants. Luckily, it didn’t turn into a lost top or a comical scenario where the filter top ends up in a neighbors yard.

After a brief conversation with the pool professionals, it became clear that this is a common point of failure. It can be temporarily patched with epoxy but this is not recommended for this application. In a pinch, do what you can to maintain it, but most of the time, it’s best to get a new top. We will also replace the gauges (these are not due for another day or two, as we have chosen to purchase replacements online).

Going Back to the filter and solving problems along the way will help you better maintain the equipment you have. This has been our approach to working on electronics and technology for our 20 years. Once you’ve learned a your lesson, you typically won’t be to keep notes on your pool filter and make sure to buy the correct filter for your system. Prices will vary as you all know.

Physical and Visual Inspection

Check the filter core, gauges, blow off valve, filter screen (if applicable), and filter. Something is clogging up our filter, possibly algaecide or leftover water coloring solution. It is washable, but for the sake of time, it’s best to replace the filter. This task is not brain surgery, but it must be done correctly. Inspect all parts, clean what you can, and replace the items that are beyond cleaning. Filters and parts deteriorate over time.

While you’re cleaning out the pool, filters and whatever else might be causing problems in and around the pool. Check out our series on pool robots, maintenance, care and more importantly, Maytronic Dolphin robot repairs! Don’t miss out on this series, whether you have a robot, looking to invest into one or have a bot out of order or a Dolphin Down in desperate need of assistance… More content on the way!

In summary, these quick fix – pool tips can be used to inspect all components of the pool pump. Conduct a visual inspection, clean the baskets, filter, filter core, filter housing bottom, and check the water. Balance the water with chemicals as needed, then deploy the pool robot to start the cleaning process.

Like the quick fix format? Check out other quick fix content here such as this disposal problems fix. Like the learn to descale your coffee equipment – pots and machines, fix a toilet float clean. Like this quick pool filter housing and filter fix, try a cell phone charging hack… Check them out!

February 14, 2024March 30, 2025

Dolphin Nautilus

Maytronics Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus

Pool Robots by Maytronics

Dolphin Nautilus CC

The Dolphin Nautilus CC pool vacuum, made by Maytronics Dolphin, is designed to remove debris, brush, vacuum, and maintain pool clarity.

Everyday, the Dolphin Nautilus activates, moves around the pool, cleans, and maintains buoyancy upon completion. It comes with a price tag, so choose wisely! We received a recommendation from our pool guy, which was great advice – try the Dolphin Nautilus robot vacuum. The goal is to reduce water evaporation, maintain water and chemical balance, minimize chemical corrections and keep the system clean.

Drone Accessories

Nautilus Back

Nautilus Cleaning

Clean Filters

Nautilus Cart

Now, lawn equipment can spread dirt, grass clipping, environmental debris, pet fur, and screens with holes. Various types of debris can become spoilers when found in the pool. I assume that most, if not all, of this debris is kicked up by mowers and blowers as they are the main vehicles for debris getting into the pool. For us, sand from the brick pad seems to wreak havoc on our pools ‘clarity’. So, the sand, bugs and debris from lawn equipment…

More Maytronics Product Information

The Nautilus is a great product that is not terribly expensive when compared to other devices in the same space. We chose this specific product because it lacks excessive technology. We simply wanted a low-maintenance clean that could operate in the water, clean effectively, run various cleaning cycles and be easily stored on a cart when not in use. The cart allows for easy storage or movement, especially for pool usage. It can simply move the robot away when swimmings are in or around the pool. This means swimmers can splash around, stir up the water and not worry about damaging the robot. The universal cart works wonders, although it may be pricey for some. It makes tasks like bending down, lifting, and storing the robot a breeze.

Cost, cleaning time. The machine is easy to clean. Power down the machine, pull up the robot, open two doors, pull out the filters, unlock the filters with four clicks, and start the wash. Cleaning and maintaining the screens is much easier when considering the cost and cleaning time of the entire pool compared to a quick rinse under the faucet to remove debris. Moving back to the robot, snap the filters into the housing, replace them on the machine, submerge the robot, and power it on…

Quickly, I wanted to share some other Maytronics Dolphin content, newer content since the original Nautilus article in reverse order, so the fix is first (up), issue second(down): Dolphin On and Dolphin Down.

Moving on, no app for us, once again we opted for the Dolphin Nautilus robot in its manual version (corded, non-wifi enabled) to keep costs down. It suits us well since our pool remains uncovered year-round; the robot makes its way around the pool once or twice a day, providing low-maintenance, no-frills pool cleaning. Personally, I would prefer to cover the pool at night to retain heat and reduce water evaporation. But for now, we’re happy with our choice. This recommendation came from our pool service, not a paid advertisement, so a big thank you to them!

January 19, 2024April 3, 2025

Quick Tip – Float

Stop Running Water

Pesky Toilet, Fix Running Water Issue

Toilet Running? Quick Tip – Check the Float, Stop the Water Flow Correctly.

Quick Tip: Is your toilet leaking or running? Start by checking for a few common issues. Is the water continuously filling the toilet? This could indicate a water shutoff problem. Is the flap broken, deteriorating, or blocked by debris like a tank cleaner puck or tablet?

Next Steps

Here are two simple steps to fix the problem we are trying to solve in this quick tip article regarding floats and flaps. First, check the flap. Is it the correct size and in good condition? If not, replace it. Adjust the flap sinker and chain as needed. Second, check the float. Make sure it is floating properly to shut off the water once the tank reaches the set float height. Fixing these issues can help stop your toilet from leaking or running.

Toilet Inspection, Repair

Visual Inspection

Unscrew Water Hose

Tank Screw

Replace Flap

Water Pipe

Screw Water Hose

When it comes to toilet repair, there are few things you need to check, such as water height and water pressure. For a quick fix, start by turning off the water, draining the tank, vacuuming out any remaining water (having a bucket nearby can be helpful in tight spaces). Let’s loosen the plastic nut(which is a common material these days) that connects the tank to the water spout. Do the same for the float nut, which is the other connection point under the tank for modern toilets.

Once the hose and float have been removed, along with the float assembly and hose connecting the ‘out flow’ pipe, which may be another potential leak point, replace what was removed with new materials and turn the water back on. And just like that, your toilet is fixed. It may not be a technical task, but everyone has a toilet, and appliances and fixtures can break down from time to time. Keep this handy tip in mind for the next time.

Like the quick fix format? Check out other quick fix content here such as this disposal problems fix. Like the learn to descale your coffee equipment – pots and machines. Much like this fix a toilet float article… clean and fixpool filter housing and filter problem or try a cell phone charging hack… Check them out!