The Happy Handyman | The Happy Handyman

Getting ready for the hot season

sun

It is nice outside here in Phoenix but it will not last much longer. Here are some suggestions that will hopefully make some summer chores easier.

Make sure all your yard work tools are organized. Let it be the shed or garage, make sure they are maintained and be stocked up on your supplies.
If you want to hire a landscaper for the hot season, do so now because they get very busy that time of year.
If you have a pool make sure that you have the supplies you need or make sure your pool guy is ready to have the pool swim ready, also be sure to have his schedule planned to keep your pool amazing through the hot season.
Look around your property and make a list of things that need to be completed. If you get that to do list done now you will not have to be painting the trim in the hot season. Or you can schedule a handyman to come and get those items done.

I hope these suggestions helped. Enjoy the nice weather now because soon it will be back to the hot season.

Build your own water feature

The weather is nice here in Phoenix AZ, so it is a good time to do a project outside. A simple water feature can enhance the appearance of any outdoor space. A water feature is relaxing and can bring the space together. Here are instructions on how to make a feature out of a large flower pot.

Material’s needed:

A round flower pot at least 8 inches wide, small fountain pump kit with tube, something to decorate the inside, and Tape Measure

Instructions:

Read the directions for the small fountain pump
Wash and rinse the flower pot thoroughly with dish soap
Place the pump in the center of the pot and press firmly until the suction cups attach
Cut the tube of the pump so it sits an inch below the water once the pot is filled
Fill the pot with decorative supplies
Add water to the pot until it is 2 inches below the rim
Place the pot on a stable surface near an outlet and plug it in

Have fun doing this and check back with us later for more things to uplift your living spaces.

New Year Resolution, getting more organized?

Now that the New Year is in full swing, have you kept your resolution to get more organized? We have an idea that makes it easier to accomplish this goal.

Make a list of what you want to organize. Make the list as detailed as possible, the more details you have the better idea and control you have over completing the item.

Example:

Organize the kitchen:

Clean under the items on counters
Purge and reorganize the cabinets
Purge and reorganize the pantry
Deep clean the refrigerator and microwave

Once you completed all the items on your master list with a detailed list you can check off all the items completed. You will have a sense of accomplishment as you go down the list to keep you motivated.

Happy Cleaning!

Hot water heater on the fritz?

Is your water heater on the fritz?

The Happy Handyman can replace it. We can replace gas or electric water heaters. We can order and install the water heater for you usually within 24 hours of your call. We can also install a tankless water heater to save money on you energy bill.

Do you know how old your Water heater is?

If the hot water heater is gas, the usual life span is 8-10 years and the electric life span is 10-12 years. You can check how old your water heater is by checking the sticker on the side of the heater. If there isn’t an actual manufacturer’s date you can use the model & serial #’s to find out when it was made.

Another good indication you need to replace your water heater is rusty water or puddles of water. Check those water heaters and give us a call if you need a replacement.

Get rid of pesky critters and lower your AC bill, by Sealing Gaps Around Electrical Outlets and Switches

Yes, electrical outlets and switches on your walls can be an avenue for bugs and money out of your pocket. As far as your AC bill goes, one outlet is no big deal, but all the outlets combined can actually cause a draft in the home. This air escaping not only increases your electric bill, but can give critters such as ants a nice scent trail for all the tasty treats in your home.

Before you get started, turn the circuit breaker off. If you’re unsure if the power is on, plug something in to test or use a non-contact voltage tester. Next you want to remove the cover of the outlet. This is normally one-two screws, or will need to be pried off with a screwdriver.

Once you have the cover off, take a look at the opening, if it’s less than 1/4 Inch you can fill it with acrylic latex caulk. If the gap happens to be bigger, you will want to seal with foam sealant that’s formulated for use around doors and window framing. Remember, the foam expands, so be mindful of this when applying. Wait for the foam to dry and cut off any excess so the cover fits. You can also purchase a pre-made foam gasket that goes over the cover to seal in the outlet.

Author: The Happy Handyman