How Often Should I Have My Electrical System Inspected?

It's recommended to have a professional electrician inspect your electrical system every three to five years. Regular inspections help identify potential issues, ensuring the safety and reliability of your home or business. Our team at Electric City is well-versed in finding electrical issues during inspections.

What Are Signs That I Need to Upgrade My Electrical Panel?

Frequent tripped breakers, flickering lights, and an outdated electrical panel are clear signs that an upgrade is necessary. These issues can indicate overload, wear, or obsolescence, compromising safety. Upgrading your electrical panel improves safety and efficiency in your home or business by meeting the needs of modern appliances and technologies.

Why Are My Lights Flickering & Should I Be Concerned?

Flickering lights may signal various issues, including loose bulbs, faulty wiring, or problems in the electrical system. While occasional flickering might be due to minor causes, persistent or severe flickering could indicate an underlying problem, potentially compromising safety. Have a professional electrician quickly assess the situation to identify the root cause and address potential hazards. Electric City provides inspections and repair services to ensure your lighting system operates safely.

How Can I Improve Energy Efficiency in My Home or Business?

Improving energy efficiency involves various strategies for both homes and businesses. Consider upgrading to LED lighting, using energy-efficient appliances, and installing programmable thermostats. Additionally, ensure proper insulation, seal air leaks, and schedule regular maintenance for HVAC systems. Electric City provides personalized energy-saving services to help you save energy, cut utility expenses, and support a greener environment.

What Should I Do During a Power Outage at My Home or Business?

During a power outage, prioritize safety by turning off major appliances to prevent overload when power is restored. Use flashlights instead of candles for lighting, and avoid opening the refrigerator to keep food cold longer. If the outage persists, unplug sensitive electronic devices to protect them from potential power surges when electricity returns. Consider having a backup power source, like a generator, for essential appliances. Electric City can assist you with standby generator installation, ensuring uninterrupted power during outages at your home or business.

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The Signs It’s Time for Electrical Panel Repair

Electricians in Katy, TX, Discuss Common Electrical Panel Issues That Signify a Repair is Needed

These Signs Mean Your Electrical Panel Needs Help

While cooking is the most common cause of residential fires, electrical issues are high on the list. But the thing about electrical fires is that they’re almost always preventable. For the most part, a home’s electrical system doesn’t need much care or maintenance, but that doesn’t mean it can go without any. Unless something goes wrong, the electrical panel is an often overlooked facet of the system. Luckily, there are a few signs to look for that can indicate something is wrong with an electrical panel. Homeowners should know these signs so they can prevent potentially dangerous situations.

Dim or Flickering Lights

One major sign to look for in the house involves light bulbs. Both flickering and dimming can be signs that the electric panel needs repair. If the electrical panel is to blame, it often results in the lights going off for a few seconds and then coming back on. Dim lights are another indication that something’s up with the electrical system. They may stay dim or fluctuate, even when the light has been on for a while.

During storms, homeowners experiencing these things may not need to worry about an underlying problem. But if flickering and dimming happen regularly, even when there isn’t inclement weather, it’s good to get an electrician to look at the panel.

Burning Smell or Heat from the Panel Itself

Another telltale sign that something’s wrong with the electric panel is a burning smell near it. Sometimes this smells like burned plastic because of wire insulation melting. Other times it’s just a general burnt odor. Either way, this signifies that something is malfunctioning within the box.

An electrical panel that’s hot to the touch is also a bad sign. It’s common for electrical panels to be somewhat warm, but it’s time to call a professional electrician when they’re hot to the touch, making it hard for homeowners to keep their hand on them. These signs could be precursors to an electrical fire.

old panel

The Age of the Panel

Finally, the electrical system may be acting fine outwardly, but the panel may be old. Replacing old electrical panels is essential for preventing dangerous mishaps. Older homes with Federal Pacific panels should have their electrical panels replaced. These panels, installed in millions of homes from the 1950s to the 1980s, are prone to failure, meaning the breakers might not trip when they’re supposed to. This is pretty scary, considering that’s their whole job and the main way to prevent electrical mishaps.

Most electrical panels will easily last 25 to 35 years before needing to be replaced. However, if lights are dimming and flickering, there’s a burning smell coming from the panel, or breakers trip often for no apparent reason, it’s a good idea to get a professional’s opinion. They may or may not suggest electrical panel replacement. Either way, it’s good to get the peace of mind that comes after an electrician does an electrical system assessment on the home.

About Electric City

The friendly professionals at Electric City have been serving their neighbors in Katy, TX, since 2008. They provide same-day service, straightforward pricing, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for electrical panel assessment, replacement, or repair in Katy, TX.