Understanding Smart Homes

5 Common Electrical Issues in Older Homes and How to Fix Them If you live in an older home, you might love its charm and character—but the electrical system? Not so much. Outdated wiring and old electrical panels can lead to safety hazards and everyday frustrations. Here are five common electrical issues in older homes and how to fix them. 1. Outdated Wiring Many older homes still have knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, which can be a fire hazard. These systems weren’t designed to handle today’s electrical loads. If your home has outdated wiring, consider hiring an electrician to replace it with modern copper wiring. This is a significant investment, but it’s crucial for safety and can increase your home’s value. 2. Frequent Tripping Breakers If your breakers trip often, your electrical panel might be overloaded. Older homes weren’t built with modern appliances in mind, and their panels often can’t handle today’s power demands. Upgrading to a 200-amp panel can resolve this issue and prevent future power disruptions. 3. Ungrounded Outlets Two-prong outlets are common in older homes, but they lack the grounding needed to protect your devices from power surges. The best fix is to have an electrician install grounded three-prong outlets. If rewiring isn’t an option, a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet can offer some protection. 4. Flickering or Dimming Lights Do your lights flicker when you turn on a high-powered appliance? This could be due to outdated wiring, loose connections, or an overloaded circuit. A licensed electrician can diagnose the cause and either tighten connections, add dedicated circuits, or upgrade wiring to ensure steady power. 5. Overloaded or Damaged Outlets Older homes often lack enough outlets, leading homeowners to rely on extension cords and power strips, which can be a fire risk. If you see scorch marks on outlets or experience frequent plug failures, it’s time to add more outlets. A professional can install additional circuits to safely distribute power. Final Thoughts While these electrical issues are common in older homes, they’re not something to ignore. A licensed electrician can help bring your home’s electrical system up to modern safety standards. Investing in electrical upgrades not only improves safety but also enhances convenience and increases your home’s value. If you need any advice or help updating your system, give us a call today at 940-390-7606 .

Spring Electrical Checklist: Get Your Home Ready for Warmer Days As winter fades and spring rolls in, it's the perfect time to give your home's electrical system a little attention. With more daylight, changing temperatures, and an increase in outdoor activities, your electrical setup should be ready to handle the transition. Here are a few easy things you can do to make sure everything is running smoothly. 1. Check Your Outdoor Outlets & Lighting Winter can be rough on outdoor outlets and lighting. Snow, ice, and freezing temps may have caused damage, so take a few minutes to inspect them. Look for cracked covers, loose connections, or signs of wear. If you have outdoor lighting for patios, walkways, or landscaping, make sure all the bulbs are working and replace any that aren’t. 2. Inspect Your Surge Protectors With spring storms on the horizon, it’s a good idea to check your surge protectors. If you’re relying on power strips that don’t offer real surge protection, now’s the time to upgrade. Whole-home surge protectors are a great investment to keep your appliances and electronics safe from unexpected power surges. 3. Test Your GFCI Outlets Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are required in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces to prevent electric shocks. Test them by pressing the "test" button—if the power cuts off and resets properly, you're good to go. If not, it might be time for a replacement. 4. Give Your HVAC System Some Electrical Love Your heating system is getting a break, but your air conditioning is about to take center stage. Make sure your AC unit is ready by checking the circuit breaker, replacing the air filter, and ensuring the outdoor condenser unit is clear of debris. If anything seems off, an HVAC technician can help before the heat kicks in. 5. Clean and Check Ceiling Fans Dust those ceiling fan blades and switch them to spin counterclockwise. This pushes cool air down, helping your home stay comfortable as temperatures rise without overworking your AC. 6. Look for Overloaded Circuits With holiday lights and space heaters put away, now’s a good time to evaluate whether any circuits were overloaded. If you tripped breakers frequently in the winter, consider redistributing your electronics or talking to an electrician about adding circuits. Taking a little time now can prevent bigger electrical headaches later in the season. A few simple checks will help your home stay safe, efficient, and ready for all the fun that spring brings! We are always here to help you with all of your electrical needs. Just give us a call at 940-390-7606 !

Why Do Appliances with Heating Elements Use So Much Electricity? Ever notice how your electric bill seems to spike in the winter when you're using space heaters or when you're baking up a storm during the holidays? That’s because appliances with heating elements—things like ovens, toasters, hair dryers, and space heaters—pull a lot more electricity than other household items. But why? Why Heating Appliances Are Power Hogs The key reason is simple: heat requires energy. Heating elements convert electricity into heat using resistance, meaning the appliance has to draw a lot of power to generate enough warmth. Compare that to something like a TV or LED light, which only need a small amount of electricity to function. For example, a standard lightbulb might use 10–15 watts, but a space heater can easily pull 1,500 watts or more . That’s a huge difference! The Dangers of Overloading a Circuit Most household circuits are designed to handle a certain amount of electrical load, typically 15 or 20 amps. If you plug in multiple high-wattage appliances on the same circuit—like a space heater and a microwave—you could overload the circuit. When that happens, your breaker trips, cutting power to prevent overheating and potential electrical fires. But sometimes, warning signs appear before the breaker trips. If you notice: - Flickering lights when an appliance turns on - Warm or buzzing outlets - Frequently tripping breakers …it’s time to rethink what’s plugged in where. How to Check an Appliance’s Power Draw Every appliance has a label (usually on the back or bottom) listing its amperage (A) or wattage (W). To find out how many amps an appliance pulls, use this simple formula: Amps = Watts ÷ Volts Most U.S. homes run on 120-volt circuits, so if your space heater is 1,500 watts: 1,500W ÷ 120V = 12.5A That means just one space heater could use most of a 15-amp circuit’s capacity—leaving little room for anything else. Bottom Line If your home has frequent breaker trips or warm outlets, be mindful of how many high-wattage appliances are running at the same time. Checking the amp draw of your devices can help prevent overloads and keep your home safe. When in doubt, spread out your appliances across multiple circuits or consider upgrading older wiring with the help of an electrician. Stay safe and warm—without overloading your home’s electrical system! If you have any questions or need help with your electrical system in any way, give us a call at 940-390-7606 today!

The Importance of Wire Clamps and Romex Connectors in Your Home’s Electrical System As a homeowner, ensuring your electrical system is safe and up to code is essential. One small but crucial component that plays a significant role in electrical safety is the wire clamp or Romex connector . These devices secure electrical cables where they enter electrical boxes, panels, and appliances, preventing damage and reducing fire hazards. What Are Wire Clamps and Romex Connectors? Wire clamps and Romex connectors are small metal or plastic fittings designed to hold electrical cables in place where they enter electrical enclosures. They protect wires from fraying, prevent movement that could loosen connections, and help maintain a safe electrical installation. These connectors are especially important for Romex cable (non-metallic sheathed cable), which is commonly used in residential wiring. Without proper clamps, the cable’s insulation can become damaged over time, exposing live wires that could cause short circuits or fires. Where Are They Used in Your Home? Electrical Panel In your home’s breaker panel, every cable entering the box must have a properly installed wire clamp or Romex connector. These prevent the cables from rubbing against the sharp edges of the panel box, which could cause insulation wear and potential electrical faults. Garbage Disposer Under your kitchen sink, the garbage disposer is often hardwired into the electrical system. A wire clamp where the power cable enters the disposer housing ensures the cable doesn’t get pulled out or damaged due to vibrations, helping to prevent electrical shorts. HVAC System Your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system relies on secure electrical connections to function efficiently. Wire clamps are used where power enters furnaces, air handlers, and condensers to prevent wires from being pulled loose due to vibrations or accidental tugs. This is especially critical for outdoor condenser units, which face weather exposure and movement from the compressor cycling on and off. Why Are They Important? Using proper wire clamps and Romex connectors ensures that: ✔ Wires remain secure and protected from damage. ✔ Connections stay tight, reducing the risk of electrical fires. ✔ The installation meets National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements. If you’re unsure whether your home’s wiring is properly secured, consider having an electrician inspect your system. A small detail like a wire clamp can make a big difference in keeping your home safe! 🔧⚡ If you need any of these inspected or installed, give us a call today at 940-390-7606 .

Why You Should Hire a Licensed Master Electrician When it comes to electrical work, hiring a licensed master electrician in Texas is not just a smart decision—it’s essential for safety, reliability, and compliance with state regulations. While unlicensed individuals may offer lower prices, they often lack the necessary training, experience, and legal qualifications to perform electrical work safely. Here’s why choosing a licensed master electrician is the right choice. Extensive Training and Experience In Texas, becoming a licensed master electrician requires at least 12,000 hours (about six years) of on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed electrician. This experience ensures that they have hands-on knowledge of electrical systems, safety protocols, and Texas electrical codes. In contrast, unlicensed electricians lack the same level of verified training, making them more prone to mistakes that could lead to costly repairs, electrical failures, or even fires. Rigorous Testing and Certification To become a master electrician, individuals must pass a comprehensive Texas licensing exam that tests their knowledge of: - National Electrical Code (NEC) - Texas state and local electrical codes - Electrical system design and troubleshooting - Safety standards and best practices This ensures that they can handle complex electrical work correctly and safely. Unlicensed electricians are not required to pass any standardized tests, meaning their knowledge and skills are unverified. Legal Compliance and Liability Protection Licensed electricians are required to carry liability insurance, protecting homeowners from damages caused by electrical work. They must also comply with Texas laws and building codes, reducing the risk of failed inspections or legal issues. Unlicensed electricians, on the other hand, operate outside these regulations, meaning homeowners take on financial and legal risks if something goes wrong. If an unlicensed electrician performs faulty work that leads to a fire or injury, insurance companies may not cover the damages. Guaranteed Safety and Quality A licensed master electrician follows industry best practices, ensuring that electrical work meets safety standards and is built to last. Electrical issues caused by improper wiring or installations can lead to power surges, fires, or even electrocution—risks that are significantly reduced when hiring a trained professional. The Bottom Line Hiring a licensed master electrician in Texas ensures that your electrical work is done safely, legally, and professionally. The extensive training, rigorous testing, and legal compliance required for licensing provide peace of mind that an unlicensed individual simply cannot offer. While it may be tempting to cut costs by hiring an unlicensed electrician, the risks far outweigh the savings. Investing in a licensed master electrician is an investment in the safety and longevity of your home’s electrical system. At A&M Electrical Services , you can rest assured that our master electrician knows how to do the job right. Give us a call and let's discuss your project (940) 390-7606 .

The Evolution of Home Electricity: Three Game-Changing Advances Since 1990 The past three decades have witnessed remarkable transformations in residential electricity, fundamentally changing how American homes consume and manage power. Three innovations stand out for their impact on energy efficiency, sustainability, and consumer empowerment. Smart meters represent perhaps the most significant advancement, revolutionizing how utilities and homeowners interact with electricity consumption. Introduced widely in the mid-2000s, these digital devices replaced traditional analog meters, providing real-time energy usage data to both utilities and consumers. This two-way communication enables dynamic pricing, allowing homeowners to adjust their energy use during peak periods to save money. Smart meters also eliminate the need for manual readings and help utilities respond more quickly to outages. The rise of residential solar power marks another transformative development. While photovoltaic technology existed before 1990, dramatic improvements in efficiency and sharp declines in cost have made solar installations increasingly common in American homes. Modern solar panels convert about 20% of sunlight into electricity, compared to just 12% in the early 1990s. Combined with better energy storage solutions and net metering policies, residential solar has evolved from a niche technology to a mainstream option for homeowners seeking energy independence and lower utility bills. The widespread adoption of Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) represents a crucial advancement in electrical safety. Mandated by the National Electrical Code for most household circuits since 2002, these sophisticated devices detect dangerous electrical arcs that traditional circuit breakers might miss. AFCIs can identify hazardous conditions caused by damaged wires, loose connections, or deteriorating insulation – common causes of electrical fires. The technology has proven so effective that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates AFCIs could prevent nearly 70% of electrical fires in new homes. This innovation, combined with improved Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and tamper-resistant receptacles, has dramatically enhanced residential electrical safety over the past three decades. Together, these innovations have transformed residential electricity from a simple utility service into an interactive, efficient, and increasingly safe system. As these technologies continue to evolve and become more accessible, American homes are becoming increasingly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly while providing homeowners with unprecedented protection from electrical hazards. If you want to update your electrical system or have any other electrical need, give us a call today at 940-390-7606 .

Did You Know? 5 Surprising Facts About Your Home's Electricity Many homeowners take their electrical systems for granted, but understanding how electricity works in your home can help you save money and stay safe. Here are five fascinating insights about residential electricity that might surprise you. Your Circuit Breaker Panel Isn't Meant to Last Forever While many homeowners assume their electrical panel will last as long as their house, these vital components typically have a lifespan of 25-40 years. If your panel is approaching this age, you might notice signs like frequent breaker trips or warm cover plates. Getting your panel inspected and potentially replaced isn't just about convenience – it's a crucial safety measure that can prevent electrical fires. Phantom Energy Is Draining Your Wallet Even when turned "off," many modern appliances and electronics continue drawing power. This phenomenon, known as phantom or standby power, can account for up to 10% of your home's electricity usage. Your TV, computer, coffee maker, and phone charger are likely culprits. Simply unplugging devices or using smart power strips can save you hundreds of dollars annually. Your Home's Electrical Ground Isn't Just a Wire That third prong on your outlets connects to a complex grounding system that usually extends deep into the earth near your home's foundation. This system often includes copper rods driven 8-10 feet into the ground or connection to your home's water pipes. Without proper grounding, your home is at risk for electrical fires and damage to expensive electronics during power surges. LED Bulbs Are More Efficient Than You Think While most homeowners know LED bulbs save energy, the scale of savings is remarkable. LEDs use about 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. Even more impressive, LED bulbs continue becoming more efficient each year, with some newer models using half the energy of LEDs from just a decade ago. Your Utility Peak Hours Might Be Changing Traditional peak usage hours (typically late afternoon and early evening) are shifting in many regions due to solar power adoption. Some utilities now experience their highest demand in the early evening when solar production drops but household usage remains high. Understanding your utility's peak hours and adjusting your usage accordingly could significantly reduce your electricity bills. If you have any electrical need, give us a call today at 940-390-7606 !

How Electricity Transformed the American Home From the moment Thomas Edison's light bulb first illuminated homes in the late 1800s, electricity has revolutionized how we live, work, and relax. As homeowners, we often take for granted the incredible ways electrical power has enhanced our daily lives. Let's explore five transformative changes electricity brought to American homes. The most fundamental impact was reliable indoor lighting. Before electricity, families relied on dangerous and dim oil lamps or candles. Electric lights transformed homes into spaces that could be safely and brightly lit at any hour, extending productive hours and creating new opportunities for evening activities. This simple change reshaped family routines and social gatherings. Temperature control ranks as another crucial advancement. Electric heating and air conditioning freed us from the constant work of maintaining wood or coal fires and suffering through sweltering summers. Modern HVAC systems now automatically maintain comfortable temperatures year-round, improving our health, sleep quality, and overall wellbeing while protecting our homes from temperature-related damage. The kitchen experienced perhaps the most dramatic transformation. Electric refrigerators eliminated the need for daily ice deliveries and frequent grocery trips while keeping food fresh longer. Electric stoves and ovens replaced dangerous gas appliances, offering precise temperature control and eliminating open flames. These changes not only improved food safety but also expanded our culinary possibilities. Entertainment and communication underwent a revolution thanks to electricity. From early radios to modern smart TVs and internet-connected devices, electricity brought the world into our living rooms. These technologies have transformed how we stay informed, enjoy entertainment, and connect with loved ones. Finally, electricity modernized household chores. Electric washing machines, vacuum cleaners, and dishwashers dramatically reduced the physical labor and time required for home maintenance. Tasks that once took entire days can now be completed in minutes, giving families more time for work, relaxation, and togetherness. As we flip switches and plug in devices, it's worth remembering how profoundly electricity has improved our homes and lives. This invisible force continues to evolve, with smart home technology and renewable energy solutions promising even more innovations for future generations of homeowners. If you have any electrical needs or questions, give us a call today at 940-390-7606 !

How Cold Temperatures Can Affect Electricity and Tips for Staying Safe Winter’s chill brings more than just snow and icy winds—it also brings unique challenges for your home’s electrical system. Cold temperatures can strain your electricity, affecting both efficiency and safety. As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand these effects and take proactive steps to protect your family and home. The Impact of Cold on Your Electrical System When temperatures drop, your home’s electrical demand increases significantly as heating systems, space heaters, and electric blankets run more frequently. This heightened demand can place additional strain on your home’s electrical circuits, which may lead to overheating, tripped breakers, or even electrical fires. Cold weather can also exacerbate issues in older systems. Wiring that is outdated or poorly insulated can become brittle and more prone to damage. Additionally, ice and freezing temperatures can affect outdoor power lines, causing power outages or voltage fluctuations that may harm sensitive electronics. The strain on your system is further compounded when multiple devices are running simultaneously, increasing the risk of overloading circuits. Tips for Homeowners to Stay Safe To ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the extra winter strain, consider these steps: 1. Inspect Your System: Have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s wiring, circuits, and breaker panel. Identifying and addressing weak spots in your system can prevent overloading and reduce risks. 2. Use Appliances Wisely: Avoid running multiple high-energy devices—like space heaters, ovens, and dryers—on the same circuit at the same time. Distribute electrical loads across circuits to ease strain. 3. Monitor Space Heater Use: Space heaters are convenient but can be hazardous. Always keep them away from flammable materials, plug them directly into wall outlets (not power strips), and never leave them unattended. 4. Install Surge Protectors: Voltage fluctuations caused by storms or heavy use can damage electronics. Use surge protectors to safeguard your devices. 5. Check Outdoor Lighting and Cords: Inspect outdoor electrical items for wear and tear. Replace damaged cords immediately to prevent hazards. 6. Prepare for Outages: Keep an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, and backup power sources like a generator. Always use generators outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. By understanding the strain cold weather places on your electrical system and taking these precautions, you can reduce risks and keep your home safe and comfortable throughout winter. Stay proactive to power through the season with ease! If you need help with any of these or any other electrical item, give us a call today at 940-390-7606 !