When people say, “They don’t build homes like they used to,” it’s usually in response to seeing new subdivisions full of cookie-cutter tract homes. Modern homes can now be constructed more durably and inexpensively than homes of yesteryear, but many bold homeowners choose to purchase and restore older homes as a “labor of love.” And even if your home was constructed more recently, it’s a good bet you had several upgrades in mind when you made the initial offer. If you haven’t gotten around to those upgrades yet, our team at Gary Houston Electric is here to help!

We’ve been offering trusted electrical service in Little Rock since 1978, and we’re always a phone call away when you need help with home repairs and renovations. We want to help you keep your family safe and comfortable, and our seasoned residential electricians will be happy to make specific safety recommendations for your home. We can also look for ways you and your family can lower your energy bills and give you an estimate for a KOHLER emergency generator so you’ll enjoy year-round peace of mind when Mother Nature does her worst. Here are a few easy tips to help you get started:

Use Power Strips Safely-Some power strips are merely line splitters, but you’ll want to purchase power strips with built-in surge protection to protect your electronics. You also shouldn’t use power strips for high-wattage appliances such as hair dryers, toasters, and space heaters.

Replace Obsolete Outlets-If your home was built before 1969, you might still have some obsolete two-prong outlets that will need to be replaced with grounded outlets. Be sure also to repair, replace, or remove any nonfunctional outlets or light switches, particularly if they buzz or are warm to the touch. You should also have ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets installed outdoors and in your kitchen and bathrooms.

Have your home wiring Inspected-Your home wiring should be inspected by a professional electrician at least every 25 years, or sooner if you’re experiencing frequently tripped circuit breakers, blown fuses, or flickering lights.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an electrical safety inspection, contact us online or at 501-375-8330.