How to Know When It’s Time to Hire a Handyman

When It’s Time to Hire a Handyman

When people imagine 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. However, the professionals at Fix-it Rite take pride in offering specialized services across most maintenance areas. 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 call in a professional.

Major Appliances

Major appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens and washing machines are essential for daily living. When one of these appliances malfunctions or breaks down, it can cause a major disruption to your routine. Here are some signs that may indicate it's time to call in a handyman:

  • Your refrigerator is leaking or not cooling properly, which could indicate a problem with the seal, the thermostat, or the cooling system itself.
  • Your dishwasher consistently leaves dishes dirty or leaks water, possibly due to blocked spray arms, a faulty door seal, or an issue with water drainage.
  • Your oven isn't heating up evenly or at all, which might be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat, heating element, or faulty wiring.
  • Your washing machine won't drain or spin properly, often due to a clogged drainage system, a broken pump, or an unbalanced load.
  • Your dryer is tripping a breaker consistently, perhaps because of a faulty heating element, a malfunctioning motor, or electrical issues.
  • Any of these appliances tripping a breaker consistently suggests potential electrical problems that could require professional assessment and repair.

Water Heaters

Water heaters are often overlooked until they stop working, but it's important to pay attention to any warning signs that indicate it's time for maintenance or repairs. Here are some indicators that your water heater may need the expertise of a handyman:

  • Your hot water appears discolored, possibly resembling rust, or it has an unusual odor that may indicate a problem with the water heater.
  • The water temperature fluctuates constantly, becoming too hot or too cold unexpectedly, which can be inconvenient and may signal an issue with the heating element.
  • You hear odd noises, such as popping or banging, coming from the tank, which could suggest sediment buildup or other internal complications within the water heater.

HVAC Systems

As the temperature drops, it's crucial to have a functioning heating system in your home. Here are some red flags that may indicate an issue with your HVAC system:

  • Your furnace is constantly cycling on and off, which might indicate an issue with the thermostat or a problem with the system's efficiency.
  • You notice a burning smell when you turn on the heat, a sign that there could be dust burning off or potentially a more serious electrical issue.
  • Your energy bills have significantly increased without explanation, suggesting that your HVAC system may be working harder than necessary, possibly due to poor maintenance or an underlying mechanical problem.
  • There is little to no airflow coming from the vents, which could mean a blockage in the ductwork or a failing blower motor that needs attention.
  • You hear loud or unusual noises when your HVAC system is running, such as banging, clanking, or squealing, possibly indicating loose parts or parts that need lubrication.

Plumbing

Handyman - Plumbing Issues

Plumbing issues can quickly spiral out of control if not addressed promptly. Here are some signs that may indicate it's time to hire a handyman for your plumbing needs:

  • Low water pressure throughout your home, which could indicate a blockage in the pipes.
  • Constantly clogged drains, which may be caused by buildup of debris or tree roots in the main sewer line.
  • Leaking pipes, faucets, or toilets that can waste water and lead to water damage if left untreated.
  • Unusual noises coming from your plumbing, such as gurgling or whistling, which can signal a problem with the pipes or water flow.

Electrical Systems

Handyman - Electrical Issues GFCI

Electrical issues can be dangerous and should never be ignored. Here are some warning signs that may indicate it's time to call a handyman for your electrical needs:

  • Your lights flicker or dim frequently, which could indicate an overloaded circuit or faulty wiring that needs attention.
  • Outlets are hot to the touch, suggesting a potential electrical overload or a serious wiring issue that could pose a fire hazard.
  • Circuit breakers trip frequently, often a sign that your electrical system is attempting to prevent overheating or potential damage.
  • Burn marks or charred areas around outlets may indicate overheating or arcing, which is a clear sign of electrical danger.
  • Frequent power outages in your home might point to underlying issues within your electrical system that need professional assessment.

Time to Hire a Handyman? Contact Fix-it Rite!

Fortunately, Fix-it Rite is the right place to call for all your home repair needs. Whether it's insulating your windows, fixing leaky faucets, or repairing a faulty heater, Fix-it Rite has skilled professionals ready to help. Call Fix-it Rite in Sacramento at (916) 363-6022 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment today and ensure your home is winter-ready. If you're still unsure, here are a few reasons why hiring a handyman is a smart choice: they have the expertise to handle a wide range of repairs, save you time, and can often prevent small issues from becoming major problems.