Handyside Blog

It’s time to deck the halls — and to do it safely! While we’re just as excited as the next person to create a winter wonderland, it’s important to keep potential electrical hazards in mind. Even something as simple as a trailing extension cord can become a tripping hazard, and plugging too many lights into […]

As the leaves start to turn shades of red and gold and a familiar crispness fills the autumn air, our minds naturally turn to cozy sweaters and warm drinks. But before you reach for the thermostat to ward off that first real chill, it’s crucial to ask: Is your heating system ready for the winter […]

For many homeowners, the dream of a fully integrated smart home — where lighting, security, and climate control are all seamlessly managed from a smartphone — is a significant goal. However, when looking at the project as a whole, taking the right steps can feel overwhelming and financially impossible. The good news is that you […]

You don’t need to be an electrician to know that water and electricity don’t mix. That doesn’t stop the fact that certain areas of your home need to have electrical outlets and water sources nearby, which could cause potential problems if you aren’t careful. That’s where GFCI outlets come into play. These outlets quietly work […]

Are you looking to purchase a new air conditioning system but feeling confused about all those SEER numbers? You’re definitely not alone! Many homeowners scratch their heads when trying to figure out what those ratings actually mean for their homes and wallets. Here at Handyside Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical, we talk with customers every day […]

Hot water plays a crucial role in everyday life. Showers, laundry, dishwashing—every task depends on a reliable and efficient system. Traditional tank water heaters have been the standard for decades, but technology has introduced a better alternative. Upgrading to a tankless water heater provides significant benefits, especially in terms of energy efficiency.

A heat pump represents a year-round solution designed to improve comfort and efficiency in your house that you never thought possible. A heat pump system works tirelessly to maintain the perfect indoor temperature throughout the year. Heat pumps offer a practical option for homeowners seeking to save money, reduce utility bills, and achieve reliable heating […]

Natural gas keeps our homes warm and comfortable but detecting a natural gas leak requires immediate action. Many homeowners feel uncertain about the proper steps when they smell gas inside their homes. Handyside is here to change that. As a top HVAC, plumbing, drain, and electrical services company in Harrisburg, PA, we’re committed to educating […]

Your home’s plumbing system connects directly to your family’s daily comfort and safety, making rapid professional intervention crucial during emergencies. However, many homeowners struggle to differentiate routine plumbing issues from truly urgent matters, leading them to question when they should call for emergency plumbing services. The right knowledge helps you make smart decisions during potentially […]

Clogged drains can happen to any homeowner, even those careful about avoiding grease, food, or excess hair. While a plunger often works, there are times when it won’t be enough. In such cases, two effective methods are available for cleaning the drain, but unfortunately, many homeowners opt for a commonly recommended method that should actually […]

Owning a home means taking care of all its essential systems, and your plumbing is no exception. While licensed professionals handle most of the work, there are a few simple steps you can take to maintain your home’s plumbing between visits from your friendly neighborhood plumber.

Did you know most fires are caused by faulty wiring in homes or businesses? Here are five warning signs that it’s time to have your wiring checked!

Who else wants to save some money this month while also enjoying a spooky, fun Halloween? We want it all—the fun and light-hearted “scare” of a Halloween… but also a safe Halloween… and we don’t want to spend too much on electricity.

Will a carbon monoxide detector detect a natural gas leak? It’s great that you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in your home, but it’s important to understand what they do and don’t do. Many people ask whether a carbon monoxide detector will detect a natural gas leak. The answer is no, but let’s explain why.

It’s frustrating enough having to clean up all the dishes that the family leaves in and around the kitchen sink. But when you finally finish and drain the sink, only to hear it gurgle back at you—that’s maddening! So, why is the kitchen drain gurgling like that? Let’s figure out what you can do to […]

Some places have soft water, while others have hard water. If hard water is not properly treated, it can cause stains on your sink and leave your skin feeling dry and itchy after a shower. Here are a few things to check to determine if you need a water softener in your home.

Do you have a natural gas furnace, stove, or any gas appliances in your home? If so, it’s crucial to know how to detect a gas leak to prevent a dangerous explosion.

The day a water pipe bursts in your home, spraying water everywhere, is not the best time to figure out where your main water shut-off valve is located.

During cold weather, HVAC systems tend to run efficiently since people are less likely to open windows. However, in hot or stuffy conditions, the urge to open windows for fresh air becomes inevitable. It’s important to be cautious, as open windows can significantly impact the efficiency of your HVAC system.

A backwater valve is a device designed to prevent water from flowing backward into your home or commercial property. This backward flow can occur after heavy rainfall when sewer systems become overwhelmed. Without a backwater valve, there’s a risk that wastewater could flow back into your drains or even into your home, leading to significant […]

While power outages are not a common occurrence in most places in our country, it’s important to know what to do and how to be prepared when they do happen.

AC units are crucial for keeping your property comfortable. However, like any appliance, they have a limited shelf life. That’s why it’s important to know the age of your AC unit.

Kids are naturally energetic and curious, often getting into everything, especially things you don’t want them to. This curiosity can lead to danger, so we must be diligent about electrical safety in our homes.

Installing a dishwasher might seem straightforward if you’ve never done it before — just attach a couple of hoses and slide it into place, right? It’s never that simple. Never.

What To Do If a Slow-Moving Drain Is Turning Your Shower into a Bath Do you find yourself standing in an inch or two of water after you’ve been in the shower for just a few minutes? A slow-moving drain can turn your shower into a bath. Water backing up like this is caused by […]

With blackouts and energy issues becoming more common worldwide, it’s increasingly important to be prepared for power outages. One effective solution is to use a backup generator.

Air conditioning is essential for keeping homes cool during summer and warm during winter. Increasingly, households are turning to ductless HVAC systems because they are more energy-efficient. Here are some of the best HVAC options for homes without ducts.

Does anyone have a non-leaky outdoor faucet? It’s a common issue! Many homeowners have accepted that after watering their garden, they must go inside to turn off the water supply to stop the spigot from leaking. While there are several reasons for a leaky outdoor faucet, and you might fix some with the right tools, […]

You upgrade your TV from time to time. You upgrade your phone from time to time. You upgrade your car from time to time. But when was the last time you even looked at the wires inside your walls and considered whether they needed to be upgraded? Just as technology evolves, so too do the electrical […]

When summer days get hotter, air conditioning can be a lifesaver! It feels great to escape the heat and cool down in the comfort of your home. At least, it does until the first skyrocketing energy bill arrives. Then things really heat up! How can you keep your house cool while saving money on the […]

When it comes to your home, it’s always worth considering how you can maximize the available space. One option you might consider is installing a bathroom in your basement. Whether or not this is practical depends on a few factors.

Drain backups occur when there is a blockage in the sewer mains. Over time, this can cause an overflow that can be unpleasant, damaging, and potentially harmful to health if not dealt with. Here are key factors to consider when tackling drain backups.

Are you torn between the decision to choose a hybrid or electric vehicle (EV)? Making the choice can be stressful, especially when considering charging infrastructure. Let’s break down the essentials to help you make an informed decision.

As the cost of living affects people everywhere, it can be tempting to try and take on “Do It Yourself” projects. Some plumbing jobs are fine to take on yourself and will save you from making unnecessary callouts. When it comes to your toilet, however, there are some jobs you can do yourself and some […]

Will a Carbon Monoxide Detector Detect a Natural Gas Leak? While it’s great that you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in your home, it’s important to understand their functionality. A common question is whether a carbon monoxide detector will also detect a natural gas leak. The answer is no, and here’s why.

New homeowners of older houses often find themselves alarmed when they notice a persistent smell of sewer gas indoors. Upon calling a plumber for inspection, they may receive the daunting news: ‘You need to replace the old cast iron drain/sewer line underneath the cement slab your house is built on.’ This repair can indeed be […]

Spring is a beautiful season and a wonderful time of anticipation as summer draws near. Spring is also a time when you can save money on your heating and electrical costs. Here’s how…

Are you in the habit of closing some furnace vents to channel more heat into the rooms where it’s most needed? Are you aiming to trim your heating expenses by selectively warming only the active areas of your house?

Plumbing services play a crucial role in maintaining a functional home. While they are often associated with addressing emergencies like burst pipes or malfunctioning showers, it’s equally important to engage a plumber proactively. This helps ensure the smooth operation of your home’s water systems and appliances. To make informed decisions and ensure the best service, […]

When people think about cleaning drains, they often focus on the drains inside their homes. This is crucial for maintaining a pleasant environment and ensuring functionality, particularly in kitchen sinks where blockages can lead to unpleasant odors. However, the same level of attention is also necessary for outdoor drains. Here are some ‘Handy’ tips to […]

Too Hot? Too Cold? What Is a Ductless Mini-Split and Why Might You Want One? Say goodbye to being too hot or too cold at home! It’s 2024 and comfort is key in every corner of your house. HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) technology focuses on indoor environmental comfort—ensuring the perfect temperatures and air […]

Have you ever wondered about the reality behind smart homes? Smart homes utilize technology and intelligent devices to maintain, run, and protect your living space. However, there are several myths surrounding this innovative technology. Let’s debunk some of these misconceptions right here!

Protect Your Home: Frozen water pipes can burst and do tremendous damage. Take preventive measures, especially in older homes with inadequate insulation. Fortunately, Handyside has uncovered effective ways to prevent your water pipes from freezing this winter. Don’t wait—safeguard your home today!

Heat pumps offer an efficient solution for heating your home, operating in diverse ways depending on their type. Air source heat pumps, for instance, draw heat from outside your home, while ground source heat pumps utilize warmth from the soil or water surrounding your home. To determine if heat pumps align with your needs, consider […]

Water jetting, or hydro jetting, serves as an effective method for cleansing and unclogging drains, sewer lines, and various surfaces, with additional applications like graffiti removal. This process employs powerful, high-pressure water blasts to eliminate blockages, clear drains, and eliminate deposits from pipes and other surfaces.

Looking to trim down your electricity bills? Check out our 5 energy-saving tips to cut costs and keep your wallet happy!

With the New Year’s upon us, many people think about the year ahead and what needs to be done to make improvements… in health, in career, and even in the home.

Join Our Membership Program this National Home Owners Day. Owning a home is more than just having a set of keys; it’s about creating memories, building a foundation, and establishing a sanctuary that reflects your unique style. National Home Owners Day is the perfect time to reflect on the significance of this achievement and to […]

Despite having energy-efficient and well-heated homes, it’s not uncommon to encounter a single room that remains cooler than the rest of the house. While using a space heater is one potential solution, it might not be the most energy-efficient choice. Explore the following ‘Handy’ alternatives for efficiently heating that particular room.

What To Do If a Slow-Moving Drain Is Turning Your Shower into a Bath Do you find yourself standing in an inch or two of water after you’ve been in the shower for two or three minutes? A slow-moving drain can turn your shower into a bath. Water backing up like this in the shower […]

There’s truly nothing quite like the enchanting twinkle of Christmas lights. Imagine strolling through the snow on a crisp wintry evening, greeted by the warm glow of Christmas trees adorning homes, casting a magical ambiance that fills the air with festive joy.

Do you ever find yourself needing a sweater in one room and just a t-shirt in another? Or perhaps you’ve noticed certain areas in your home feeling chillier than the rest? These common occurrences, known as “cold spots,” can be especially bothersome during cooler seasons, but they might persist year-round in some instances.

Preparing to welcome family and friends into your home for the holidays? It’s wonderful to share the festive season with loved ones, but ensuring a smoothly running household is key to preserving the holiday cheer. To help you navigate this bustling time, we’ve compiled proactive tips focused on maintaining your home’s plumbing in tip-top condition […]

A power surge is a burst of electrical energy that travels through our cords and wires, posing a potential threat to our electrical devices. It can result in immediate damage, frying them on the spot, or gradually diminish their lifespan over time

Water quality can vary, with some areas having soft water while others contend with hard water. Unaddressed hard water can lead to unsightly stains on your fixtures or leave your skin feeling dry and itchy after showering. In this ‘Handy’ guide, we’ll explore key factors to consider in determining whether a water softener is a […]

Balancing Room Comfort with Whole Home Humidifiers HVAC systems, while essential for maintaining indoor comfort, often face a common challenge: uneven room temperatures. You might find one room too warm in the summer or excessively cold in the winter. One effective solution to this problem is the use of a whole-home humidifier.

Who’s up for a little Halloween thrill without frightening your wallet? We’re all about embracing the spooky fun of Halloween while ensuring it’s a safe and budget-friendly celebration. If that sounds appealing, these money-saving electricity tips are right up your haunted alley!

Drains play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of your home. They channel water away, effectively reducing the risk of troublesome issues like condensation and the development of mold and mildew. Handyside professional drain cleaning removes the clogs that can impair the efficiency of drains. To ensure a successful service, we’ve compiled some essential […]

Your furnace works hard to keep your home warm. In fact, you might run your furnace more often than your car! Just like your car needs maintenance and care, your furnace deserves the same attention. While a typical furnace can last around 20 years (15 to 30 years depending on the manufacturer), it’s essential to […]

The majority of fires stem from wiring malfunctions within homes or businesses. To help ensure your safety, here are FIVE warning signs that indicate the need for a thorough wiring inspection.

Dealing with a sink full of dishes left by the family can be frustrating, but when you’ve finally conquered the pile and the sink gurgles back at you, it can be downright maddening! Ever wondered why your kitchen drain is making those mysterious noises? Let’s explore what’s causing it and how you can put an […]

Fall is here… Winter is coming… will your home stay warm and cozy through it all? The key to a comfortable home during the changing seasons lies in a well-maintained HVAC system.  After all, you invested in a furnace or HVAC system, so the following article will help you maximize your investment! You can enjoy […]

There are several home-related tasks that are generally safe to tackle, such as clearing leaves from the eaves or fixing fences. However, when it comes to electrical work, there are certain tasks that should never be attempted without proper expertise. Below, we’ll outline some of these electrical jobs and the reasons why you should stop […]

While it might be called a garbage disposal, it’s important to note that not all kinds of ‘garbage’ should find their way down it. Feeding the wrong items into it can lead to bad smells, stubborn clogs, or even damage. While soft leftovers, vegetable scraps, and fruit peels are fair game for your disposal, here’s […]

Building on the success of our previous blog post, ‘Our Best Plumbing Tips For Your Home,’ where we shared practical advice to prevent common plumbing issues, we’ve delved deeper into the expertise of our Handyside plumbers. Here are seven additional tips to help you proactively care for your plumbing system.

You can’t see it. You can’t smell it. You can’t touch it. Carbon monoxide (CO), called the ‘silent killer,’ is a highly poisonous gas that is odorless and colorless and often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. It mixes with air and if breathed in, can cause brain damage or even death. The most common […]

The kitchen contains some of the highest energy-consuming elements in your household. Discover our 5 ‘Handy’ tips to continue making great meals while saving some bucks.

It’s important to understand that HVAC encompasses more than just air conditioning. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. All three components play a vital role in making your home or business a comfortable environment. Your property is likely equipped with a range of HVAC appliances, making it essential to stay mindful of when […]

Ever witnessed this scenario on a home renovation show? Plumbing surprises can be overwhelming. To avoid such situations, here’s a simple way to check if your plumbing needs an update.

Smart devices and new technology have transcended being mere “flash in the pan” gimmicks reserved for TV shows and the wealthy elite. Instead, they have become valuable assets that can enhance your everyday life. Here are five compelling reasons why you should seriously consider integrating modern electrical technology into your home:

Everyone seems to have an opinion on how low the indoor temperature should be during the summer when running the air conditioning. While the standard room temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit is commonly favored by many, others argue for higher settings, particularly when it’s hotter outside. Recently, while inspecting a rented house, we saw that […]

If you were to ask our experienced Handyside plumbers, they’d readily confirm that people frequently attempt to flush items down the toilet that should never find their way into the drain. With their fair share of unclogging toilet drain pipes, our plumbers have a comprehensive list of the most problematic items folks attempt to flush. […]

Summer brings along numerous additional expenses, such as vacations, camping trips, and outdoor family activities. However, rising electricity prices should not overshadow our delight in the season. To ensure a budget-friendly and energy-efficient summer, here are 5 effective strategies to conserve both energy and money this summer.

Are you struggling with an inefficient central air conditioning system that fails to combat the scorching heat and maintain a cool indoor environment? When you set your thermostat to a comfortable 75 degrees, does your air conditioner struggle all day long to achieve that temperature? Fret not, as we have three “Handy” tips to enhance […]

If you own a home, then you know a key part of home ownership is caring for and maintaining your home’s plumbing system. Although Handyside has a team of licensed plumbing professionals, there are a few things you can do with your home’s plumbing to keep it maintained in-between check-ups with Handyside.

You may be on vacation, but that doesn’t mean you stop thinking about or having to take care of your house while you’re away. Here are 5 Handy tips to ensure your home is safe from electrical issues while you’re gone!

French drains can be effective by preventing water from penetrating the foundation of your property. With any drain, the level of effectiveness depends on how they are maintained. Here are some “Handy” tips to ensure that your French drains are kept in the best condition so that your property is more protected from flooding or […]

Spring is a time for new beginnings. For many people, that means getting the yard prepped for approaching Summer picnics and deep interior cleaning. While working through your Spring cleaning checklist, remember your HVAC system!

Outlets are common in nearly every home… but not all outlets are the same. Have you ever tried to plug something in, and it didn’t fit? For example, you have a three-pronged device, but your outlet only has two holes. Ever wonder why that is?

Happy Spring! The birds are singing, the leaves are appearing on trees, and it’s the time when many people think about spring cleaning. If you’re opening up your windows for some fresh air and cleaning up your home, don’t forget your plumbing!

During cold weather, HVAC systems can run efficiently, and you may not feel the need to open a window. However, when it’s hot or stuffy, people inevitably want to open a window in order to let the fresh air in. It’s important to be wary, as windows can affect the efficiency of your HVAC system.

Electricity. It’s something you don’t often think about… until it’s not available to you. Then, you realize just how much you rely on electricity! When a big storm blows in and the lights start flickering and go out—suddenly, you’re not sure what to do!

You hope to start your day with a refreshing shower, but instead, as you run the water, you’re greeted by a nasty sewer smell coming from the drain! You want to get rid of that smell, but nothing you’ve poured down the drain thus far has done the trick. Handyside will help you solve that […]

In the Spring, it’s surprising how quickly we adjust the thermostat; From giving us a little heat in the morning to take the chill out of the house, to switching on the air conditioning to combat the afternoon heat. Even if your furnace has been working well throughout the winter, if you start to hear […]

If you have an older home or are thinking about purchasing one, you may want to consider these five electrical issues:

It’s a really good idea to have a plunger in the bathroom the next time the toilet is clogged. The plunger can easily be stored under the sink or in a storage closet, as it’s the fastest way to clear most clogs.

Do people in your home fight over the thermostat setting? In many homes, especially split-level homes, someone is either too hot or too cold, and no one is happy.

As we look forward to the blooming of Spring, it is often a time that we think about life, family, and what’s important to us. And if you have children, one of the things that is always important to parents is: your children’s safety.

In plumbing, a lot of things can go the opposite of how you’d like them to go. Plumbing issues can range in difficulty, from easy (do it yourself) to hard (don’t do it yourself!).

Your home’s HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Condition) system runs around the clock, 24/7, all year long. You can’t expect it to last forever.

Your power bill can be pretty expensive, right? With all the other bills that arrive each month, you wonder if it will ever stop. We all need a break from the rising bills! Well, Handyside is here to help with some great tips and advice to lower your electrical power bill. (And the best part […]

When it comes to plumbing, many things can go wrong. Some plumbing issues are very easy to repair, while others can become quite a bit more difficult. No matter how difficult or simple the plumbing problem may appear, it’s wise to have some plumbing knowledge to ensure that repairs are done correctly and efficiently. After […]

Does your HVAC system seem mysterious to you? Don’t worry! Handyside is here to help give the low-down on how it works.

Have you ever had that moment of confusion and slight irritation when you plug your device into an electrical outlet, expecting to see it power up, only to find it unresponsive? It’s a surprisingly common occurrence that can disrupt your day. Whether it’s your morning coffee machine that won’t start or your computer that won’t […]

Clogged drains happen, even to homeowners who avoid putting grease, food, or excessive amounts of hair down the drain. As good as a plunger is, there are times when it will fail to unclog the drain. After that, there are two good ways to clean the drain, but unfortunately, many homeowners choose a highly recommended […]