When It’s Time to Hire a Handyman
When people hire a handyman, they envision someone who comes to their home to repair anything that needs attention. From rain gutters to electrical issues, a handyman can assist in various ways. With winter approaching, it's important to ensure all aspects of your home are functioning properly, including major appliances, heating, water heaters, refrigeration, plumbing, and electrical systems.
In this guide, we will outline key issues within each of these categories to help you determine when it's time to hire a handyman.
Signs It’s Time for House Repairs and Maintenance
Major Appliances
Major appliances like your fridge, dishwasher, oven, and washing machine keep daily life running smoothly. When they act up, it can disrupt everything. Here’s when to call a handyman:
- Fridge leaking or not cooling? It could be the seal, thermostat, or cooling system.
- Dishwasher leaving dishes dirty or leaking? Check for blocked spray arms, a faulty door seal, or drainage issues.
- Oven not heating evenly or at all? The thermostat, heating element, or wiring might be the problem.
- Washing machine not draining or spinning? Look for clogged drains, a broken pump, or unbalanced loads.
- Dryer tripping the breaker? It could be a heating element, motor issue, or electrical problem.
- Appliances tripping breakers frequently? That could signal bigger electrical issues.
Water Heaters
Water heaters usually go unnoticed—until they stop working. Look for these warning signs:
- Discolored, rusty, or foul-smelling hot water.
- The water temperature switched from hot to cold unexpectedly.
- Popping or banging noises from the tank, likely due to sediment buildup.
HVAC Systems
As the weather cools, your heating system becomes essential. Here’s when it might need attention:
- Furnace cycling on and off? It could be a thermostat or efficiency issue.
- Burning smell when you turn on the heat? Dust or something more serious could be the cause.
- Sudden energy bill spikes? Your HVAC system might be overworking due to poor maintenance.
- Weak airflow from vents? It could mean blockages or a failing blower motor.
- Banging, clanking, or squealing noises? Loose parts or lack of lubrication might be the culprit.
Plumbing
Don’t let plumbing issues escalate. Look out for:
- Low water pressure throughout the house, possibly from a pipe blockage.
- Constantly clogged drains, which could mean buildup or tree root intrusions.
- Leaks from pipes, faucets, or toilets that waste water and cause damage.
- Odd noises like gurgling or whistling, which could signal pipe or water flow issues.
Electrical Systems
Electrical problems aren’t just inconvenient—they’re dangerous. Watch for:
- Flickering or dimming lights, which might mean overloaded circuits or faulty wiring.
- Hot outlets, a sign of electrical overload or wiring issues (potential fire hazard).
- Frequently tripping circuit breakers, a possible overheating prevention.
- Burn marks or charred spots near outlets, signaling overheating or arcing.
- Recurring power outages that suggest deeper electrical issues needing a pro.
Spot these signs? Don’t wait—call in the experts before the problem worsens!
How to Find the a Highly Recommended Home Maintenance Professional
Maintaining your home is easier with a professional. Whether it’s electrical work or general repairs, here’s how to choose the right expert:
- Check their credentials and licenses to ensure they’re properly trained and follow industry standards.
- Look at their experience and reviews. Ask friends or family for recommendations to find someone reliable.
- Good communication matters. Make sure they’re responsive and keep you informed throughout the job.
- Discuss fees upfront. Be clear about what’s included to avoid surprises later.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to find someone else.
Ready to Hire a Handyman? Call the Home Repair Specialists at Fix-It Rite!
Fix-it Rite is your go-to for home repairs. From insulating windows to fixing leaky faucets or heaters, their skilled pros have you covered.
If you live in the Sacramento area then Call Fix-it Rite at (916) 363-6022 or schedule an appointment to make your home winter-ready. We offer professional handyman service (Certified General Contractor too) to save you time, handle a wide range of repairs, and can stop small problems from becoming big ones.