Sooner or later, every home will need electrical work, whether a wiring repair, an upgrade, or a new fixture installation, to name a few common reasons. But how are you supposed to know when it’s time to put down your DIY kit and call in a residential electrician?
Author: Gary Houston
Three Ways to Prevent a House Fire
You’ve worked your whole life to create a home for yourself and your family, and it’s frightening to imagine replacing everything after a house fire! And what about the things that you can’t replace, like your family and pets?
Do’s and Don’ts of DYI Electrical Projects
Spring has sprung and although there are plenty of electricians in Arkansas qualified to tackle your spring project list, at Gary Houston Electric Company, we know you’re itching to jump in with both feet and take the DIY world by storm. A winter spent watching HGTV does that to a person.
Three Reasons to Choose Kohler For Your Business
Springtime is almost here, and as much as we enjoy seeing warmer temperatures in the forecast, we know that weather-related power outages are right around the corner. For most businesses, it’s usually a matter of “grinning and bearing it” for a few hours, but for healthcare providers, police departments, and airports, losing power is simply not an option. Since 1920, those businesses have turned to Kohler, who has been been keeping them out of the dark when Mother Nature does her worst.
Knowing When to Repair it Yourself and When to Call Us
In tough economic times it’s tempting to tackle home repairs to try and save money. Besides, few things are as satisfying as a do-it-yourself home improvement project well done. We’ve all been there. And chances are, if you know a carpenter, a plumber, or a master electrician, you know someone who was jazzed early on by knowing how to take things apart and put them back together.
Tips on How to Use Extension Cords and Surge Protectors Safely
Years ago life was simple and electrical outlets were abundant. No more. Now it seems we’re overrun with TVs, DVRs, modems, appliances, computers, you name it. And what few outlets are left fill up with phone chargers and tablets.
Extension cords and power strips are often used to fill the gap, but improper use is dangerous. Small devices such as lamps, radios, and the like may generally be powered with an extension if needed, and heavy duty extensions rated appropriately can be safely used to temporarily power electrical tools and other devices.
How LED Lights Save You Money
There are many things that you can do around the house to lower your electric bills, including adjusting your thermostat, installing weatherstripping and/or storm windows and doors, checking attic insulation, and turning off lights when you’re not in a room. These methods have been around for as long as people have had air conditioning and electrical lighting in their homes, and a few small changes can typically lead to significant savings right away.
Four Factors that Make an Electric Company Reliable
When you need an electrical contractor to work on your home or business, you want to know that you’re getting the best you can find, and that the electric company is reliable and trustworthy. At Gary Houston Electric Company, we believe you should be able to easily tell which electrical companies deserve your business, based upon four factors by which you can judge their reliability.
How to Prepare Your Business for Winter
Despite the unseasonably warm weather in December, winter has arrived in Arkansas, and if you haven’t prepared for it you don’t want to let any more time get away. This time of year, you are never more than one winter storm away from big problems, especially if that storm packs a one-two punch that makes travel impossible and knocks out power for an extended time.
A Few Things to Consider When Looking for a Licensed Electrician
There are many quality electricians in Arkansas, and it’s always a good idea to shop around before making a hiring decision. Soliciting multiple estimates is standard procedure for most contractor jobs, and you can quickly learn how companies match up on price. But should you simply hire the lowest bidder?
from our blog
Most small businesses cannot compete with big box stores and online retailers when it comes to offering the lowest prices, nor should they try! People still love to shop, and it’s a much better id...
Most Arkansans spend the whole summer complaining about the heat and talking about how ready they are for cold weather. They also complain just as much about winter weather, particularly when thei...
Owning and operating a small business is highly rewarding, but keeping the doors open is a constant struggle for the first few years. When Gary Houston Electric opened in 1978, we knew our surviva...
There are many reasons why homeowners choose to make renovations. Sometimes, they buy a “fixer-upper” in a great neighborhood and make small upgrades as their budget allows. Sometimes, the home do...
We’ve all grown so accustomed to the convenience of electricity that we often take it for granted until the power goes out! But severe weather events occur year-round in Arkansas, and it’s not unc...