While Vanilla Ice might have had the answer if you needed your MCs "cooked like a pound of bacon" (whatever that means), homeowners trying to protect their investments and keep their homes in tip-top condition will need different kinds of problem-solvers. These three repair professionals should more than earn a place on your speed-dial when it comes to solving -- and preventing -- common household problems. "Word to your mother," strictly optional.

1. The Plumber

While any homeowner can jiggle a toilet handle every now and then, many plumbing tasks are best left for professionals. How do you know whether it's time to call for help or if it's safe to attempt a DIY repair? These signs indicate repair projects that may be beyond the scope of the typical homeowner:

• Faucets that won't stop leaking
• A tub that fails to drain
• Low or inconsistent water pressure
• Frozen pipes
• A clogged toilet which isn't helped by plunging

Enlisting the routine services of a plumber also yields another invaluable payoff. While all pipes eventually need replacing, regular maintenance can help keep them in good working order for as long as possible, saving replacement costs between $4,000 and $10,000 for a 1,500 square foot, two-bathroom house.

2. The Locksmith

Think locksmiths are only good for coming to the rescue when you're locked out of your house at five in the morning in your bathrobe during a thunderstorm? Think again. The fact is that locksmiths have much more to offer to contemporary homeowners in terms of everything from comfort and convenience to safety and security.  

In addition to routine locksmith services like key cutting for all kinds of locks and supplying, fitting, servicing and repairing door and window locks, many locksmiths also offer auto locksmithing services and can also help with installing, repairing, and opening safes.

But that's not all: In today's quickly growing era of "smart" technology, locksmiths have more to offer than ever before when it comes to embracing the latest automated electronic access control systems. In fact, according to Icontrol's 2015 State of the Smart Home Report, 90 percent of homeowners cite security among their primary reasons for seeking out "smart" home systems.

Wondering whether these cutting edge security services are right for you? Locksmiths are well-versed in the latest technologies and can help you determine which offerings best meet your individual needs. Click here for info on other services a local locksmith may provide.

3. The Electrician

According to the Copper Development Association Inc., an electrical system over the age of 25 is likely to be both inadequate and hazardous. While this alone is reason enough to call in an electrician to bring things up to code, a few additional symptoms also indicate the need for professional attention. Call the electrician if you have any of the following signs of potential electrical problems:

• Your fuses blow and breakers trip frequently
• Your lights tend to wane and flicker
• Your outlets are maxed to capacity with multi-receptacle add-ons and plug strips
• You get a tingly feeling when touching outlets, switches and other systems related to your electrical system

Calling in an electrician is far more than a mere matter of convenience or aesthetics; it is also a security issue. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), approximately 51,000 residential electrical fires cause just under 500 deaths and 1,400 injuries annually, as well as $1.3 billion in damages. Regular home inspections by qualified electricians can ensure that all electrical systems remain in safe working order.

Being a homeowner is a huge responsibility, but luckily it's not one you have to shoulder on your own thanks to these experts. But remember to check references. After all, while anything less than the best may not indeed be a felony, sticking to the services of qualified, vetted professionals can help save you time, money and headaches.