CREDIT INFORMATION

Due to recent "Cyber Theft" and "Fraudulent Copyright Violations" please contact main office 936-756-0442

EMPLOYEE LIST

For employee information please contact main office 936-756-0442

David Heintz
President
A & H Electric Co.
3505 N. Loop 336 West
Conroe, Texas 77304
Office: (936) 756-0442

Blog

Open post certified electrician in Conroe

Spring for These Energy Efficient Tasks

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), as of 2020, the average Texas household consumed 1,132 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month at a $0.1171 per kWh for a total average monthly electricity bill of $132.59. Of course, these bills differ by household, depending on their specific usage and equipment choices. Other factors, including the square footage of your home and the number of household members, may influence your monthly charges.

Also, according to the EIA, a substantial percentage of a household’s annual energy consumption is spent on space heating and air conditioning. The administration adds that water heating, lighting, and refrigeration accounted for 22 percent in 2021. The remaining share of home energy use was used to power many household appliances, electronics, and other devices.

Unfortunately, as this data shows, powering our homes isn’t cheap. However, by examining your usage and identifying efficiency improvements, you have the potential to save energy and money. In addition, according to ENERGY STAR, you’ll be doing your part to help protect the environment. While many of these tips are do-it-yourself, others, like installing a smart thermostat and conducting electrical inspections, should be completed by a certified electrician in Conroe.

You Have the Power to Save By

Changing HVAC Air Filters

You should perform this task every three months for the best effects. A clean filter promotes adequate airflow and ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you may want to consider a HEPA filter.

Sealing Air Leaks and Drafts

According to the ENERGY STAR program, you can save up to $200 per year in heating and cooling costs by identifying air leaks in your building’s envelope and sealing them using cost-effective materials, such as caulk. These savings also reflect adding insulation.

Installing a Smart Thermostat

Installing a smart learning thermostat, allowing you to control and monitor the temperature from your smart device, can save you up to $100 per year on heating and cooling costs. The key to these savings is to choose an ENERGY STAR-certified model.

Swapping Out Your Lightbulbs

Another cost-efficient way to save energy is to swap out the bulbs in your light fixtures with CFLs or LEDs that are ENERGY STAR certified. These lightbulbs use 90 percent less energy and last 15 times longer. Also, make sure to purchase dimmable bulbs.

Installing Dimmable Switches

Once you’ve purchased dimmable light bulbs, have a certified electrician in Conroe come to your home to install dimmer switches, which allow you to set the brightness in a room. These are particularly ideal for children and family rooms.

Contact a Certified Electrician in Conroe

A&H Electric Co. has over thirty years of experience providing residential and commercial electrical repair, maintenance, and installation. We offer a full suite of services, not limited to electrical safety inspections and whole home rewiring, with all work performed by experienced technicians. Please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment anytime you need a certified electrician in Conroe to service your home or business, even if it’s after hours, as we offer 24-hour emergency repairs.

Join the A&H Electric Co. Family! A&H Electric Co. is currently looking for experienced electrical technicians to join our team. You must have prior experience providing residential and commercial electrical repair, maintenance, and installation. If you’re interested in becoming part of the A&H Electric family, please contact us at (936) 756-0442 or complete the online job application.

Resources:

“2020 Average Monthly Bill – Residential.” U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), 2020.

“Heat & Cool Efficiently.” ENERGY STAR.

“How is electricity used in U.S. homes? U.S. residential sector electricity consumption by major end uses in 2021.” U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), n.d.

“Start Saving Now: Featured Actions.” ENERGY STAR.

“Texas State Profile and Energy Estimates.” U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), 2019.

“Use of energy explained.” U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), June 23, 2021.

Open post certified electrician

Food Safety in The Event of a Power Outage

Whether it’s from a powerful storm or extreme heat, when your house goes dark and quiet, there are specific things you should do to prevent refrigerated and frozen food from spoiling. That is particularly essential should the power outage extend past four hours as this is the time that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): Food Safety and Inspection Service says that perishable food will remain safe in the refrigerator, while a full freezer will hold its temperature for 48 hours – 24 if half-full, assuming the door stays closed until a certified electrician can restore power.

The agency also assumes that the fridge and freezer maintained temperatures of 40ºF or below and 0ºF or below. Ideally, you should purchase two appliance thermometers, placing one in the refrigerator and the other in the freezer to ensure those temperatures. Depending on the type, you can find these at the most popular retailers for under $20. A thermometer will be needed after power returns as well.

Should the temperature creep above the recommended degrees, bacteria can grow, potentially causing you to be at risk for foodborne illnesses once the food has been eaten. That is why the USDA encourages discarding any perishable food items if the temperature of your fridge is above 40ºF or your freezer is above 0ºF after a certified electrician has restored power to your community or residence. If you are uncertain about an item, play it safe by discarding it, especially if there’s an odor or color. The agency also cautions against tasting food as even a tiny amount may make you sick.

Consider a Whole House Generator

Unfortunately, power outages happen without notice, and those considered weather-related have been up 67 percent since 2000. That is according to the Department of Energy Data, as mentioned in by the USDA in their article, “Avoid Foodborne Illness During Temporary Power Outages.” While there are certainly ways to promote food safety before and during an outage, one of the best things you can do before the power goes out is to invest in a whole house generator, professionally installed by a certified electrician.

These devices are designed to deliver power to your home’s electrical panel, built to withstand the elements, and available with a host of additional features so that you never have to worry about opening the fridge and freezer, decreasing the time that your food will stay safe, during a power outage again. Also known as home standby generators, these devices start once they detect an outage, powering all your devices and appliances until power has been restored to your home. Remember that a certified electrician must professionally install these to ensure optimal operation.

Contact a Certified Electrician in Conroe

A&H Electric Co. has over thirty years of experience providing residential and commercial electrical repair, maintenance, and installation. We offer a full suite of services, not limited to electrical safety inspections and whole home rewiring, with all work performed by skilled technicians. Please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment anytime you need a certified electrician to service your home or business, even if it’s after hours, as we offer 24-hour emergency repairs.

Join the A&H Electric Co. Family! A&H Electric Co. is currently looking for experienced electrical technicians. You must have experience providing residential and commercial electrical repair, maintenance, and installation. If you’re interested in filling one of our open positions, please contact us at (936) 756-0442 or complete the online job application.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Resources:

Carothers, Meredith. “Are You and Your Food Prepared for a Power Outage?” USDA, February 21, 2017.

“Food Safety During Power Outage.” U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, FoodSafety.gov, January 28, 2021.

“Food Safety for Power Outages.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), September 8, 2020.

Garcia, Jesus. “Avoid Foodborne Illness During Temporary Power Outages.” USDA, August 18, 2021.

Open post Spring-Electrical-Safety-Checklist

Spring Electrical Safety Checklist

According to the Almanac, the vernal or spring equinox falls on March 20 this year. The event occurs when the Sun crosses the equator line, heading north, resulting in the world experiencing nearly equal hours of day and night. The equinox is also considered the astronomical start of spring, allowing Texans to enjoy one of the most naturally stunning seasons ideal for basking in temperate weather. In addition, the spring provides an excellent opportunity for homeowners to contact a certified residential electrician to inspect their electrical system, ensuring no potentially dangerous issues exist.

It is also ideal to complete other maintenance tasks like the following.

Start with an Energy Safety Inspection

The first thing you should do, mainly if your home was built more than 40 years ago or you’re purchasing an existing house, is to schedule an electrical safety inspection with an electrician like A&H Electric. Doing this is particularly essential since the National Fire Protection Association (NAPA) reports that electrical failures and malfunctions caused more than 44,000 home fires between 2012 and 2016.

A certified residential electrician will provide a thorough electrical system inspection to ensure that all components in the home are up to the National Electrical Code (NEC), meeting all requirements for safety, such as containing the required amount of ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs). This service offers you peace of mind knowing that the system operates safely and reliably.

In addition, the NFPA adds that “aging electrical systems in older homes can be a source of arc faults, either through normal wear and tear or because the systems cannot accommodate the greater demands of modern appliances” (Campbell, 2019). Should you find yourself increasingly reliant on extension cords, surge protectors, etc., then you should consider having the electrician upgrade your system.

Test Essential Safety Devices Each Month

Mark your calendars, digital or paper, with this maintenance task. The NFPA encourages testing all smoke alarms installed inside and outside each bedroom in addition to on every level of your home each month. You can do these by pressing and holding the “test” button on each unit until the alarm sounds. In addition to smoke alarms, no home should be without another life-saving device; carbon monoxide detectors should be installed outside each bedroom and on each floor and tested monthly. Other tasks related to these essential safety devices to add to your calendar include changing the batteries semi-annually and replacing the units every ten years. An electrician can install smoke and CO alarms in compliance with the NEC’s safety provisions.

Inspect Extension Cords for Unusual Wear

Check exterior, interior, or combination extension cords before and after each use for signs of wear or damage. Do the same for power cords on appliances, electronics, and tools. Pay special attention to frayed cords, broken plugs, and cracked housing. Immediately replace any that are damaged, worn, or that you’re questioning the safety. When purchasing new products, ensure the cords are UL certified for the specified location you’re looking to use them in, outdoor or indoor. You can find extension cords in varying lengths at most home improvement stores and big-box retailers.

A&H Electric Co. has over thirty years of experience providing residential and commercial electrical repair, service, and installation. We offer a full suite of services, not limited to electrical safety inspections and surge protection installation, with all work performed by skilled technicians. Please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment anytime you need a certified residential electrician to service your home or business, even if it’s after hours, as we provide 24-hour emergency electrical repair and service.

Employment Opportunities at A&H Electric! A&H Electric Co. is currently looking for technicians skilled in residential and commercial electrical repair, services, and installation. If you’re interested in joining our team and would like more information about available positions, please contact us at (936) 756-0442 or complete the online job application.

Resources:

Campbell, Richard. “Home Electrical Fires.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), March 2019.

“Carbon Monoxide Alarms.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“First Day of Spring 2022: The Spring Equinox.” Almanac, December 28, 2021.

“Home Electrical Fires.” Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).

“Installing and Maintaining Smoke Alarms.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“Why Energy Efficiency Upgrades.” The U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, n.d.

Open post certified electrician

The Top 3 New Year’s Resolutions for Your Home

Before you rang in 2022, it’s possible that you joined many people in the tradition of making New Year Resolutions, committing to improving your health or finances. Perhaps, you even resolved to improve specific areas of your home that, consequently, can help you successfully achieve your personal goals. Plus, when you hire a certified electrician like A&H Electric Co., you can create a safe living environment and save money by enhancing energy efficiency.

Here are three ways an electrician can help you achieve your new year goals for your home.

Promote Home Safety

First, if you haven’t already, make sure to test your smoke alarms to ensure they will work properly in the event of a house fire. The NFPA advises installing these inside and outside each bedroom in addition to on every level of your home. Then, test each unit monthly by pressing the “test” button and following manufacturer instructions to ensure they’re maintained. 

Next, enhance the safety of your home by installing carbon monoxide alarms, which detect traces of this odorless, colorless gas. Again, these should be installed outside each bedroom and on every floor. A certified electrician can install these life-saving devices in compliance with all applicable National Electric Code standards.

Finally, hire an electrician to install AFCIs and GFCIs, which will protect you from electrical hazards. AFCIs monitor the current within a circuit and, should an abnormal arcing condition be detected, cut off power. Equally essential, GFCIs are designed to monitor the current flowing through a circuit and instantly shut off power to that outlet if it detects an abnormal variation, preventing electrical shock.

Slash Your Energy Costs

If you resolved to manage your finances better throughout 2022, choosing energy-efficient products can help reduce your energy consumption, allowing you to allocate the money saved to another area. An excellent first step would be to assess your current household consumption and product efficiency by investing in an electricity usage monitor. Once you have this information, choose Energy Star certified electronics and appliances, which meet strict requirements set by the U.S. EPA to not only help you score monetary savings by reducing energy use but also protect the environment.

Hire a Certified Electrician to Evaluate the System

According to the NFPA, electrical wiring and related equipment accounted for two-thirds of the nearly 45,000 annual home fires caused by electrical distribution and lighting equipment between 2012 and 2016. A significant concern with electrical failures and malfunctions is aging wiring. Ideally, it would help if you routinely had a certified electrician perform a safety inspection, closely evaluating the condition of your system should any of the following apply.

  • Your home was built more than 30 years ago
  • The breaker continuously and frequently trips
  • There aren’t an adequate number of outlets
  • Your lights frequently flicker
  • You hear a buzzing noise

A&H Electric Co. has over thirty years of experience providing residential and commercial electrical repair, service, and installation. We offer a full suite of services, not limited to electrical safety inspections and surge protection installation, with all work performed by skilled technicians. Please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment anytime you need a certified electrician to service your home or business, even if it’s after hours, as we provide 24-hour emergency electrical repair.

Employment Opportunities at A&H Electric! A&H Electric Co. is currently looking for technicians skilled in residential and commercial electrical repair, services, and installation. If you’re interested in joining our team and would like more information about available positions, please contact us at (936) 756-0442 or complete the online job application.

Resources:

Campbell, Richard. “Home Electrical Fire.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), March 2019.

“Carbon monoxide alarms.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“CPSC Fact Sheet: What is a GFCI?” Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

“Energy Efficient Products for Consumers.” Energy Star.

Hannahs, Corey. “AFCIs Tell a Life-Saving Story Worth Listening to About Home Electrical Safety.” NFPA Today, November 2, 2021.

“Installing and maintaining smoke alarms.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Open post residential electrician

Electrical Tips to Keep the Holidays Merry

The holidays are a joyous time brimming with family gatherings, seasonal events, and glistening displays. But, unfortunately, it is the time of year for increased expenses since you need to purchase holiday gifts, plan holiday feasts, and deck the halls. Fortunately, you can implement some energy-efficient and electrical safety tips like contacting a residential electrician when decorating this season, ensuring the holidays stay merry.

Illuminate Your Holidays Safely

There are many interior and exterior lights, from icicles to projectors, that you can use to illuminate your holidays. However, it is critical to carefully inspect them before use to ensure they are safe, whether new or old. You should check for broken bulbs, cracked sockets, loose connections, or frayed wires. Once they pass this inspection, it’s a good idea to plug them in, looking for issues.

Another essential factor to consider is whether the lights will be used in an indoor or outdoor holiday lighting display since not all are multi-purpose. Before hanging twinkling lights this season, differentiate interior/exterior products by checking the UL listed tag for the approved location or searching specifically for multi-purpose varieties marked with UL’s red holographic label.

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), in collaboration with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), also recommends reading the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how many strands can be safely connected in this year’s “Put a Freeze on Winter Holiday Fires” campaign. Taking preventative measures like these can help prevent electrical failures, which the NFPA says are a leading cause of residential fires.

Save Energy when Decorating

During the winter holidays, school-aged children are on break and distant relatives are visiting, which typically translates to increased energy consumption and higher utility costs. They are also a popular time to shop with the National Retail Federation (NRF), predicting substantial holiday sales as consumers spend a significant amount of money on decorations, gifts, and non-gift purchases.

There are several energy-efficient measures that you can do to save money, allowing you to divert those funds to better use, like having a residential electrician install more circuit breakers to prevent overloading the system as you light up your holiday displays. Energy-saving measures include choosing LED lights, using automatic timers, and turning appliances and electronics off when not being used.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that you can save approximately 30% on your energy bill while subsequently reducing environmental emissions by setting your thermostat to an efficient yet comfortable temperature during the winter. They also recommend using a programmable or learning thermostat that will lower the heat further when you’re sleeping or away from home.

Need Electrical Repair? Consult a Licensed Electrician

Electrical issues are a significant cause for concern, particularly between November and February. The NFPA says that two out of five residential fires caused by electrical failure or malfunction occurred during this time. So should anything seem amiss as you’re decking the holidays, don’t delay; consult a licensed electrician like A&H Electric to troubleshoot the issues and make the necessary repairs.

A&H Electric Co. has over thirty years of experience providing residential and commercial electrical repair, service, and installation. We offer a full suite of services, not limited to electrical safety inspections and surge protection installation, with all work performed by certified electricians. Please don’t hesitate to make a service appointment with A&H Electric whenever you need a commercial or residential electrician to service your home or business, even if it’s after hours, as we provide 24-hour emergency electrical services.

Employment Opportunities! A&H Electric Co. is currently looking for technicians skilled in residential and commercial electrical repair, service, and installation. If you’re interested in joining our team and would like more information about available positions, please contact us at (936) 756-0442 or complete our online job application.

Resources:

Energy Saver. “Home Heating Systems.” U.S. Department of Energy.

Energy Saver. “Reduce Waste and Save Energy This Holiday Season.” U.S. Department of Energy, December 7, 2021.

Energy Saver. “Thermostats.” U.S. Department of Energy.

Inman, Danielle. “Holiday Spending Reflects Continued Consumer Demand.” National Retail Federation (NRF), October 21, 2021.

“Put a Freeze on Winter Holiday Fires.” U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Tassone, Anthony T. “Bulletin: Decorative Lighting Strings.” UL, July 24, 2017.

Open post certified electrician

The Top 4 Thanksgiving Safety Tips

Celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of November, Thanksgiving Day is a holiday in which to gather with family and reflect on all the things you’re thankful for while feasting on moist turkey slices and all the trimmings. In addition, many families watch the Thanksgiving Day parade, root for their favorite team, or throw a fun football game. A substantial amount of electricity is often used as the turkey dinner is cooked, highlighting the importance of ensuring safety in your kitchen and contacting a certified electrician about home electrical safety inspections.

Safely Cook Your Turkey

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there have been 216 turkey-fryer-related accidents between 1998 and 2018, with millions in property damage losses. The CPSC adds that a turkey fryer can cause a fire in minutes and, along with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), discourages using these appliances at home and urges consumers to choose safer alternatives for deep-fried turkey.

Keep an Eye on Your Stove/Oven

The NFPA reports that Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fires, as U.S. fire departments responded to 1,630 incidents in 2018. In second- and third-leading places were the day before Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, respectively. The NFPA adds unattended cooking was a contributing factor in a significant percentage of these fires. Therefore, it is best to limit distractions in the kitchen to prevent cooking fires, continually attending to the dishes you’re cooking on the stove-top or in the oven. Equally important is having an electrician install ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in your kitchen and other areas where moisture is present.

Test Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

One of the most crucial things you can do to prepare for Thanksgiving is test all the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. To test these safety devices, press the “test” button, holding for a few seconds until they emit a beeping noise. In addition to testing these each month, the batteries should be replaced semi-annually, and the devices replaced every ten years. The NFPA encourages having a certified electrician install these lifesaving safety devices outside and inside each bedroom on every level of your home.

Consult a Certified Electrician about Safety Inspections

The National Fire Protection Association reports that electrical failures and malfunctions were the second leading cause of home structure fires between 2012 and 2016. Two out of five incidents involving electrical issues occurred from November to February. Consulting a certified electrician like A&H Electric about a residential electrical safety inspection is an excellent way to identify potential issues, so they may be effectively corrected, providing incredible peace of mind going into the holidays.

With over thirty years of experience in Conroe, TX, A&H Electric Co. is your source for local electrical service, repair, and installation. We offer a suite of commercial and residential electrical services, including but not limited to electrical safety inspections and system upgrades, with all work performed by a certified electrician.

Our certified electricians can troubleshoot, repair, service, install your electrical system Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. We are also proud to provide 24-hour emergency repair for when the unexpected happens. To schedule an electrical service appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact A&H Electric at (936) 756-0442.

A&H Electric Co. would like to wish everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday!

We’re Hiring! A&H Electric Co. is currently looking to fill several open positions for technicians skilled in residential and commercial electrical services. We maintain a staff of personnel that provides quality workmanship and ensures customer satisfaction. If you are interested in joining our team, please fill out our online job application; you can also print and fax it to us at (936) 756-0443.

Resources:

Ahrens, Marty. “Home Cooking Fires.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), July 2020.

“Gobble Up Safety on Thanksgiving Day!” United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), November 15, 2018.

McKelvey, Susan. “Keep fire safety top of mind when preparing your feast this Thanksgiving, the peak day for U.S. home cooking fires.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), November 18, 2020.

“Smoke Alarms are Important.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in November 2018 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Open post Conroe electricians

Electrical Safety Tips for a Spooktacular Halloween

It’s officially October and, with Halloween at the end of the month, Spooky Season.

That means it’s time to decorate your home with all manner of spooky animatronics, décor, foggers, lights, and props that you can use to decorate the interior and exterior of your house this time of year after ensuring electrical safety. Of course, you may also want to consider hiring Conroe electricians to perform routine electrical safety inspections this season.

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), 52% of consumers intend to decorate their home or yard, with an estimated $3.17 billion spent on decorations alone. Additional expenditures will include seasonal candy, costumes, and greeting cards. The NRF adds that “consumer spending on Halloween-related items is expected to reach an all-time high of $10.14 billion” this year.

In addition, a new study by Lombardo Homes found that 41% of Americans start decorating for Halloween during the first week of October, spending an average of 3.3 hours each year. The study also found that Texas residents get into the season’s spirit and that the state’s most popular decoration is the witch.

Of course, when decorating for Spooky Season, you want to take necessary safety precautions to ward off frightful situations. That is especially essential as the U.S. Fire Administration reports that, between 2017 and 2019, fire departments responded to an average of 9,200 fires over three days around Halloween. Among the leading causes of residential Halloween fires were electrical malfunctions.

Here are some electrical safety tips from Conroe electricians to ensure you experience a fun, but most importantly, a safe Halloween.

Halloween Safety Tips

Avoid Flammable Items

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) encourages avoiding flammable products such as dried flowers, haystacks, or corn stalks in your Halloween displays. In addition, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends using battery-operated candles to illuminate your custom carved pumpkins.

Choose Your Décor Carefully

Suppose you are decorating with electrical decorations and Halloween lighting. In that case, it is essential to ensure that all products are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory like UL and that they are intended explicitly for outdoor use or indoor/outdoor use.

Check All Cords Before Each Use

Whether new or old, it is also best to inspect cords for signs of fraying or damage before each use, replacing them as needed. Any lines with exposed wiring should also be discarded and replaced. That goes for both extension cords and product cords.

Have GFCIs Installed by Conroe Electricians

Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) can protect against electric shock by continuously monitoring the current flowing through a circuit and, if it differs by even a minuscule amount, immediately interrupting power to the outlet. They are required by the National Electrical Code (NEC). Conroe electricians should professionally install them in residential electrical systems in areas where moisture is a concern, including the outdoors.

Consult Conroe Electricians for an Electrical Safety Inspection

With over thirty years of experience in Montogomery County, TX, A&H Electric Co. is your local licensed electrical service, repair, and installation company. We offer a suite of commercial and residential electrical solutions, including but not limited to safety inspections and system upgrades, along with complete rewiring services. 

Our Conroe electricians can troubleshoot, repair, service, or install your electrical system Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. We are also proud to provide 24-hour emergency repair for those times when the unexpected happens. To schedule an electrical service appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact A&H Electric at (936) 756-0442.

A&H Electric Co. wishes everyone a happy and safe Halloween!

Resources:

“CPSC Fact Sheet: What is a GFCI?” Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

“Data Snapshot: Halloween Fires (2017 – 2019).” U.S. Fire Administration.

Inman, Danielle. “Halloween Spending Soars as Celebrations Near Pre-Pandemic Levels. National Retail Federation (NRF), September 22, 2021.

“Halloween Fire Safety Tips.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“Halloween Safety Tips.” Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).

“Which State Decorates the Most for Halloween?” Lombardo Homes.

Open post certified electrician

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Fall invokes feelings of comfort, bringing with it shorter days and cooling temperatures, along with changing leaves that make for stunning vistas. The season also reintroduces the inviting aroma of pumpkin spice, hearty and warming dinner recipes, and the opportunity to wear cozy sweaters. It is also the perfect time to maintain your home by completing essential interior and exterior maintenance tasks, including contacting a certified electrician to ensure your electrical system is performing optimally, preventing the potential for issues before the chill of winter.

Essential Maintenance Tasks

Address Leaks

According to ENERGY STAR, the EPA estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15 percent on heating and cooling costs by taking measures to prevent the transfer of conditioned and unconditioned air around your windows and doors, such as caulking and weatherstripping. In addition to reducing heating and cooling costs, this is one of the best, most cost-effective ways to ensure continuously comfortable temperatures and promote good indoor air quality.

Test Smoke Alarms Monthly

The National Fire Protection Agency reports that, between 2014 and 2018, U.S. fire departments responded to more than 350,000 residential structure fires each year. Most of these fires resulted from cooking, heating, electrical distribution, and other reported causes. The NFPA adds that the risk of injuries is significantly lower in homes with working smoke alarms, whether hardwired or battery-operated, and stress the importance of testing them monthly and replacing them every ten years. For further assistance, please contact A&H Electric.

Test Other Critical Safety Devices

In addition to the smoke alarms, no house should be without arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs), which can help prevent hazardous arc-faults. The NFPA reports that electrical failures and malfunctions involving arcing were the second leading cause of U.S. home fires between 2012 and 2016. These safety devices are required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and must be professionally installed by a certified electrician and routinely tested to ensure that they are correctly working.

You should also routinely test ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), also required by the NEC, designed to help prevent electrical shock by shutting off electrical power in the event of a hazardous condition known as a ground fault. A certified electrician should install GFCIs in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other areas where moisture is a concern.

Another safety device that provides lifesaving measures, particularly in homes with gas, is carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are designed to detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide – a colorless, odorless, and toxic gas – and are one of the best ways to prevent CO poisoning. Like other vital safety devices, these should be routinely tested, and the batteries replaced each fall and spring per the CDC.

Clean the Gutters

The gutters protect your home from water damage by catching rainwater and directing it away from the house’s roof and foundation. The system should be checked semi-annually, once in the fall and again in the spring, for signs of unusual wear and tear or damage. They should also be cleaned during this time. You will want to scoop out any debris to clean them, then flush the system using a garden hose. You can either do this yourself, taking necessary precautions to ensure safety, or hire someone. 

Check All Outdoor Electrical Fixtures

Electrical fixtures must be rated for outdoor use, as they are subject to Texas’s weather conditions 365-days a year and routinely checked for unusual wear and tear signs. That includes but is not limited to whole-house generators, outlets, lighting fixtures, and ceiling fans. Any appliances should also be checked to ensure they are optimally working if you have an outdoor kitchen. If you suspect any electrical issues, it is best to contact a certified electrician to inspect and repair them.

Contact a Certified Electrician Today

With over thirty years of experience in Montgomery County, TX, A&H Electric Co. is your local licensed electrical service, repair, and installation company. We offer a suite of commercial and residential electrical services, including but not limited to safety inspections and system upgrades, complete with rewiring. Additional services include electrical maintenance, new construction, AFCI installation, and electrical grounding. 

Our electrical contractors can troubleshoot, repair, service, or install your electrical system Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. We are also proud to provide 24-hour emergency repair for those times when the unexpected happens. To schedule an electrical service appointment with a licensed, certified electrician, please give A&H Electric a call at (936) 756-0442 today.

Resources: 

“Air Sealing Your Home.” U.S. Department of Energy.

“Autumnal Equinox 2021: The First Day of Fall.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

“Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Prevention Guidance.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“CPSC Fact Sheet: What is a GFCI?” U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

“Home Electrical Fires.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“Home Structure Fires.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“Maintaining Your Air Conditioner.” U.S. Department of Energy.

“What is a HEPA filter? United States Department of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

“Why Seal and Insulate?” ENERGY STAR.

Editors Note: This post was originally published in August 2020 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Open post certified electrician

The Importance of Having a Certified Electrician Install AFCIs

Older homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, offer current and prospective homeowners with incredible charm. According to a 2018 report by the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Eye on Housing, older homes also account for half the houses in the United States.

However, older homes also can have aging, outdated electrical systems that may not meet today’s standards. Ideally, you should hire a certified electrician to inspect your electrical system, especially if your home was built more than 40 years ago or you plan to purchase an existing property.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical failures or malfunctions were the second leading cause of U.S. home fires between 2012 and 2016, accounting for thirteen percent of residential fires. In addition, three out of five of these structure fires were caused by a dangerous heat buildup caused by arc faults.

Also, according to the NFPA, “aging electrical systems in older homes can be a source of arc faults, either through normal wear and tear or because the systems cannot accommodate the greater demands of modern appliances.”

Arc-Fault Definition and Prevention

Arc-fault refers to a hazardous problem with your residential electrical system caused by damaged, overheated, or stressed wiring or devices. Further classified as either parallel or series arcs, arc-faults often go undetected, which is why the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires residences have arc-fault circuit interrupters installed.

Section 210.12 (A) of Texas’s National Electrical Code (NEC) 2020 requires arc-fault circuit interrupters installed on all 120-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-amperage circuits in dwelling units. These are typically installed in your main electrical panel to provide whole-home protection from hazardous arcing. Once installed, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) recommends testing them once a month, at minimum.

The NEC also allows combination-type arc-fault circuit interrupters that provide enhanced protection from arc faults to be installed. AFCIs should be professionally installed in your home by an electrician to ensure your property is up to code and that they are working correctly.

Leave AFCI Installation to a Certified Electrician

With over thirty years of experience in Montgomery County, TX, A&H Electric Co. is your local licensed electrical service, repair, and installation company. We offer a suite of commercial and residential electrical services such as electrical safety inspections, arc-fault circuit interrupter installation, and electrical system upgrades.

Our electrical contractors can troubleshoot, repair, service, or install your electrical system Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We also provide 24-hour emergency repair. To schedule an electrical service appointment with a licensed, certified electrician, please give A&H Electric a call at (936) 756-0442 today.

Resources:

“Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)” Prevent Electrical Fires.” Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), March 29, 2016.

Campbell, Richard. “Home Electrical Fires.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), March 2019.

“Electrical Circuit-Interrupters.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“NFPA 70, 2020, National Electrical Code 2020 of Texas: Section 210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter Protection (A) Dwelling Units.” UpCodes.

Zhao, Na. “Half of US Homes Built before 1980.” National Association of Home Builders (NAHB): Eye on Housing, August 10, 2018.

Open post electrical grounding rod

What is Electrical Grounding?

Electrical grounding, also known simply as grounding, refers to “intentionally creating a low-resistance path to the earth. When properly done, current from a short or from lightning follows this path, thus preventing the buildup of voltages that would otherwise result in electrical shock…” (“Grounding,” n.d.). Grounding systems for residential and commercial properties typically consist of a professionally installed electrical grounding rod.

Electrical grounding is crucial for ensuring your safety. The National Electrical Code (NEC) 2020 of Texas has specific requirements for grounding, including permitted electric grounding rods or electrodes and the depth at which they should be installed. Certified electricians are proficient with these and additional NEC codes. That means you can be assured that your electrical grounding rod will perform safely and reliably when installed by a certified electrician.

Electrical Grounding Rod

The NEC specifies in Article 250, specifically 250.52, that rod-type grounding electrodes must be a minimum of eight feet long and 5/8 inches in diameter. They must also consist of stainless steel and copper or zinc-coated steel as these materials provide excellent conductive properties and corrosion resistance.

Alternatively, grounding electrodes composed of either pipe or conduit must be metal-coated for protection against corrosion, with a minimum diameter of 3/4 inches. The required length for this application type remains eight feet long.

A certified electrician must professionally install these systems. Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are also recommended, particularly in moist areas like kitchens and bathrooms, and should be considered in new builds and remodels. GFCIs are designed to disconnect power to a device if the current exceeds the values established. 

Electric Repair, Service, and Installation 

With over thirty years of experience in Montgomery County, TX, A&H Electric Co. is your local certified and licensed electrical service, repair, and installation company. We specialize in commercial and residential electrical services, including electric ground rod installation.

Our electronic contractors can install, repair, or service your electrical system Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We also provide 24-hour emergency repair. We invite you to schedule a service appointment with an expert, certified, and licensed electrician today.

Resources:

NFPA 70, 2020, National Electrical Code of Texas. “Article 250: Grounding and Bonding.” UpCodes, 2020.

NFPA 70, 2020, National Electrical Code of Texas. “Chapter 1: General – 100 – Definitions. UpCodes, 2020.

The Home Depot. “What is Grounding vs. Bonding.” n.d.

United States Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA. “Grounding.” n.d.