ghec blog

Life in a newly constructed subdivision isn’t for everyone, and there are plenty of individuals who prefer buying older homes in well-established neighborhoods. There’s nothing wrong with investing in a “fixer-upper” with great bones, but you should always generously budget for repairs and know your own limitations when it comes to DIY projects. Be sure to include our team at Gary Houston Electric in your renovation plans, and we’ll ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget!

We have proudly offered trusted residential electrical services in Little Rock since 1978, and we’re available 24 hours a day in the event of an electrical emergency. It typically takes a little work to ensure that an older home is move-in ready, and recently constructed homes also often require a few upgrades to meet today’s safety standards. Fortunately, the required upgrades are usually more affordable than you think, and we’ll ensure that the work is done quickly and done right. Here are a few easy home safety upgrades to consider, and we’re always a phone call away if you have questions!

Have your home wiring professionally inspected—The insulation on older home wiring can become brittle and crack over time, creating a potential fire hazard. Your household wiring should be inspected at least every 25 years, or sooner if you’re unsure when it was last checked.

Install grounded electrical outlets throughout the home—Homes constructed before 1969 may still have a few obsolete two-prong outlets. You should replace all outdated outlets with three-prong outlets, and you should also install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets in your kitchen, bathrooms, and outdoors.

Replace older home appliances— Most HVAC systems last between 15 and 25 years, and a standard tank water heater typically lasts 8 to 12 years. Older home appliances become predictably less efficient as they approach the end of their operational lifespan, and it’s often a false economy to wait for them to completely break down before replacing them. Installing new appliances now enables you to enjoy immediate energy savings, and it also saves you the hassle of having to replace them in an emergency when they fail.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule service, please contact us online or call us at 501-375-8330. Be sure to also ask for a free estimate for a KOHLER emergency generator!

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