DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have several fire extinguishers in my house that I have had for a long time. Is there any place you can take them to see if they are still usable? — No Name, Lewiston

ANSWER: Sun Spots started with the Lewiston Fire Department, which referred her to commercial operations. Sun Spots then spoke to Dan at Eastern Fire Protection in Auburn, who said there are two major purveyors of that service in the region:

* AAA Fire Extinguisher, 328 Rodman Road, Auburn, 784-8306, offers walk in inspections for $5.25.

AAA said that if the fire extinguisher is no longer in the “green,” it is no longer operable and needs recharging. This service can range from $10.50-$39.50 depending on the size.

If you call AAA, technicians will be able to give more precise pricing by asking specific questions.

Bill Tanous at AAA offered the following advice:

“The most common type of extinguisher in the home is an ABC dry chemical type. Most units can go a lifetime and never need to be serviced, but I would recommend that if your extinguisher is older than 12 years, you may want to consider having it serviced. Things to inspect:

“1. Make sure the arrow in the gauge is in the green area and straight up.

“2. Make sure the hose or nozzle is clear of any obstructions.

“3. Make sure the pull pin is not bent and has a tamper seal on it (the tamper seal keeps the pin from falling out).

“4. Make sure the handles are not bent or otherwise unusable.

“5. Turn the unit upside-down and shake or tap it with your hand to fluff the powder. Put your ear to the unit and you should be able to hear the powder slide down.

“6. Last, inspect the unit for any big dents or gouges.”

* Firesafe Equipment Co., 159 First Flight Drive, Auburn, 784-7525, which said they also test extinguishers ($4.50) and will refill them (prices vary, as with AAA).

If anyone else performs this service, please let Sun Spots know and she’ll add you to the list.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: To the person looking for someone to fix electronics (Dec. 13), when I lived in Lewiston-Auburn area, several years ago, I used to take my TVs and stereos to Maurice’s Electronics and Repair on Ferry Road in Lewiston.

Unfortunately I do not remember his last name, or if he’s even still in business or not. He was great at everything he ever did for me. — Bruce via email

ANSWER: Bruce is quite right. Maurice’s Electronics is still in business, but he’s now using his last name: Belanger’s Electronics. He said he switched so that his listing would be higher alphabetically.

He said he still fixes radios, TVs, etc., but not computers. You can find him at 153 Ferry Road in Lewiston, 784-2731.

Sun Spots is very glad Bruce wrote. She’s been answering this question in the negative for way too long.

NOTE TO READERS: Thanks to all who responded to Sun Spots’ plea for questions. She will be kept very busy throughout the holidays!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to the query about a good garlic press (Dec. 14), I bought a Kuhn Rikon press several years ago, and it is A-1. Easy to clean and does a great job. Reviewed by Cook’s Illustrated a few years and rated as the best. Thanks. — Chris “Kit” Begin, Master Maine Guide, Farmington

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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