- 24/7 Emergency Service
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- 24/7 Emergency Service
- 281-880-8805
Since the housing bubble burst in 2008-2010, construction of new homes has slowed dramatically, and that means the current stock of homes is aging quickly. The average age of homes in the US is about 40 years old and in Texas, the average is above 30 years old.1 That means that statistically, very few existing homes were constructed with knob and tube or aluminum wiring. But Americans have drastically changed the way they use electricity in homes and not every home has been updated to match the demands. Which of these upgrades have you made? Which are on your to-do list?
North Houston Electrical Repair Tip 1: Too Few Circuits
The number of electronic devices used in the average home has radically grown in the last 40 years. It is not uncommon for homes to have multiple “power strips” designed to increase the outlet capacity. We employ them as surge protectors, but they become permanent extension cords that increase the number of devices plugged into a single outlet, an unsafe practice.
Most homes could use more circuits to accommodate the increase in electronics needed in a designated space. Also, do some research to ensure that surge protectors are used properly to protect sensitive devices.
North Houston Electrical Repair Tip 2: Assimilation of Smart Technology
Are you ready for Smart home technology? Smart devices extend well beyond cell phones. Thermostats, lights, home security systems, and lighting can be controlled by a phone, tablet, or with voice recognition devices. Coffee can greet the family automatically, ready for family members to move about their daily routine. Benefits include energy efficiency/cost savings and improved home security.
Most of the transition to Smart technology involves programming software. However, it may require some wi-fi signal boosting to increase connectivity.
North Houston Electrical Repair Tip 3: Surge Protection
Early on, folks used power strip-type surge protectors to shield electronics, such as computers and TVs, from electrical surges that happen during localized lightning strikes. However, power surges happen more often than lightning strikes; each power disruption and restoration also creates power surges. Power strips provide limited protection since each surge reduces the protection. Beyond that, every device in the home is subject to power surges.
A whole-house surge protector can be installed between the power grid and the electrical service panel to protect the entire home from voltage spikes. Protection will prolong the life of the home’s electrical devices and prevent damage to the home’s electrical wiring.
North Houston Electrical Repair Tip Tip 4: Lighting Upgrades
A direct benefit of energy conservation has been the development of energy-efficient lighting. After several iterations of lighting design, the most recent improvement has led to light-emitting diode (LED) technology. Incandescent lights send electricity across a metal element. The primary result is that most of the energy is spent creating heat and light is only the secondary result. LED technology is 75 to 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs. Since LED lights produce very little heat, they tend to last longer—some bulbs will burn for a decade before needing to be replaced.
The variety of bulbs is also astounding. Whether you prefer white light or softer golden light, bright light, or softer luminosity, there are bulbs to match your preference. Also, lighting changes can be done gradually as incandescent bulbs need to be replaced.
North Houston Electrical Repair Tip 5: EV Charging Stations
Electric vehicle owners will probably use all three charging methods available to EV owners during their very long life. The most convenient charging method is currently a home charging station; if you anticipate an EV purchase this needs to be a part of the discussion.
Charging stations carry 220v through a circuit dedicated to charging the EV and should be installed by a professional electrician.
North Houston Electrical Repair Tip 6: Electrical Service Panel Upgrades
If your home needs new circuits, surge protection, and potentially an EV charging station, chances are that you also need to upgrade your circuit panel. A new panel can accept an increased power load from the grid and distribute it safely. This will ensure your home keeps up with the demands of technology and provides a safe environment for your family for years to come.
As homes age, many are ill-equipped to meet the growing demands of modern technology. Common upgrades include adding circuits to accommodate more electronics, integrating smart home devices for convenience and efficiency, and installing whole-house surge protection to safeguard electronics. Additionally, energy-efficient lighting, EV charging stations, and electrical panel upgrades can ensure homes are safe, efficient, and ready for the future.
With our four decades of experience as a North Houston Electrical Repair Contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the knowledge of Electrical Repair safety in your home and addresses any residential electrical repair issues that homeowners may encounter. Call our team of Electricians at 281-880-8805.
1 https://eyeonhousing.org/2024/02/the-age-of-the-u-s-housing-stock/#:~:text=The%20median%20age%20of%20owner,American%20Community%20Survey%5B1%5D
