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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

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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However, older homes also can have aging, outdated electrical systems that may not meet today’s standards.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.

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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.

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When to Consider Replacing Your Home’s Wiring

Your home’s electrical system powers your appliances, whether small or major, and consumer electronics. A system consisting of various components, beginning with your electrical service connection and meter, is controlled and maintained by your local utility company. Inside your home, the electrical panel houses several circuit breakers and bus bars along with the main breaker. The latter, should it be blown or turned off, disconnects the power to your entire home.

More importantly, mainly in terms of safety and reliability, is your residential electrical wiring.

Since knob and tube wires, which were used from the 1800s to the 1930s, wiring has been installed in homes to distribute power from the source to light switches and outlets. They promote convenience, allowing you to plug in an electronic, then touch a remote button to watch your favorite movie or sitcom. There are times, like renovating an older home, when you should contact a licensed electrician.

Older homes, of which the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) estimates one-third of all residences in the United States are at least 50 years old, may have systems that do not meet local or national building codes. An electrician can identify older components and safety issues and make recommendations for improving the wiring of your home. Another reason to consider contacting an electrician to assess your residential electrical wiring is if you’re adding new appliances.

Warning Signs of Faulty Residential Electrical Wiring

If you notice any of the following, you should contact an experienced, licensed electrician to assess your wiring condition and make necessary repairs.

  • Sparking
  • Burning smell
  • Buzzing noises
  • Outdated wiring
  • Flickering lights
  • Hot outlets or light switches
  • Frequently tripped circuit breakers
  • Visible sparks when plugging devices into outlets
  • There is not an inadequate number of outlets in your home
  • No GFCI outlets in moist environments such as the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room

Always Trust an Experienced and Licensed Electrician

A&H Electric Co. is a certified and licensed electrician specializing in commercial and residential electrical wiring installation, service, and repair. Our company services the Conroe, Houston, and The Woodlands area during regular business hours and, because emergencies happen, offer 24-hour repair. We invite you to contact us at (936) 756-0442 to schedule electrical service or repair.

Our electrical contractors possess the equipment and expertise necessary to service all your electricity needs, including installing new residential electrical wiring, whether you’re constructing a new house or renovating an existing property. In addition to providing superior quality workmanship, we are committed to standing behind all completed projects with a full one-year warranty.

Resources:

“8 Signs You May Have a Problem with Your Electrical Wiring.” UL.

“Understanding Your Home Electrical System.” Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).

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3 Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

As people purchase more electronics, possibly even adding a new appliance here and there, older electrical panels may not keep up with demand. That can create problems, such as breakers frequently tripping due to overloading the available circuits. Having a licensed electrician upgrade your electrical panel can solve this problem and prevent more substantial, perhaps even dangerous, issues from occurring.

Safety First

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical failures or malfunctions were responsible for more than forty-four thousand residential fires each year between 2012 and 2016, making them the second-leading cause of home fires. Electrical distribution, lighting, and power transfer equipment accounted for half of these. Aging electrical systems, arc faults, short circuits, and overloaded circuits can contribute to electrical fires and should be mitigated by contacting a licensed electrician. 

Increasing Amperage

Inside every panel is the main breaker, which shuts off ALL power to the residence, along with several circuit breakers and bus bars. You can identify the panel’s current amperage capacity by looking at the main breaker. To increase this capacity or have dedicated circuits installed, as required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for major appliances, a licensed electrician will need to rewire your home and upgrade the panel.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

There are a few energy-efficient upgrades for electrical panels, including intelligent circuit breakers, that can monitor the power your appliances and electronics are consuming. That will allow you to make wise decisions so that you can save money on future energy bills. Like Leviton’s new smart load center, some of the more recent products on the market can also instantly alert you to a tripped breaker (Gartenberg, 2019). Another option is an after-market smart energy meter that a licensed electrician can connect to a specific circuit to monitor the amount of power a single appliance or electronic is using. Whole-home monitors are also available.

Contact a Licensed Electrician to Upgrade Today

A&H Electric Co. is a certified and licensed electrician specializing in residential and commercial installation, service, and repair. Our company services the Conroe, Houston, and The Woodlands area during regular business hours and, because we understand that emergencies happen, offers 24-hour repair.

Please contact us at (936) 756-0442 to schedule a service appointment.

Our electrical contractors possess the equipment and expertise necessary to upgrade your electrical panels when the need arises and ensure your system is fully operational. Plus, we are committed to standing behind our workmanship, with a full one-year warranty on all projects.

A&H Electric is currently hiring! Please click here to view and apply for our company’s open employment opportunities.

Resources:

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

Gartenberg, Chaim. “Leviton’s new smart Load Center brings app control to your circuit breakers.” The Verge, February 19, 2019.

“How to Buy Electrical Panels.” The Home Depot.

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Focus on Electrical Savings this Spring

The official start of spring is a few short days away. The new season is associated with fresh beginnings, making it an ideal time to fling the windows open, allowing natural light and air to infuse your home while you spruce it up.

It’s time to grab some organizational and cleaning supplies and get to work.

It’s also essential, particularly since daylight savings time has begun, to prioritize energy-saving and electrical safety improvements. If your electrical system requires repairs or you’re adding new equipment, then you’ll want to hire a licensed electrician who services the Conroe, Texas area.

Here are some simple ways to improve the energy-efficiency of your home.

Seal Leaks

Most households are losing energy without even realizing it. That’s because the conditioned air is flowing outside through hidden leaks found around your home. Typical electrical areas of concern include recessed lighting, outlet boxes, and light switches. Several sealing air leak techniques include installing insulating seals, caulking around windows, and applying weatherstripping around doors.

Advanced Surge Protectors

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing an advanced surge protector is a cost-effective way to improve energy-efficiency as they prevent vampire loads, which continue to consume power even when they’re “off.” Many of the available strips offer individual outlets, so you can turn off power to only one device while using the others.

Install a Smart Thermostat

On warm spring days when you’d rather be out admiring the area’s native wildflowers, a smart thermostat can adjust indoor temperatures to reflect your coming and going habits, helping to reduce energy consumption and save on cooling costs. The compatible app allows you to adjust temperatures remotely and monitor your energy usage.

Open the Blinds for Natural Light

You’d be amazed at how much electricity all the lights in your home use. Information that a professionally installed energy usage monitor can accurately provide. A licensed electrician should professionally install these. During the daytime, open your home’s blinds and curtains, allowing the sun to offer efficient amounts of light. Natural lights can also provide a boost of Vitamin D.

Hire a Licensed Electrician to Service Your Electric

A&H Electric Co. is a certified and licensed electrician specializing in residential and commercial installation, service, and repair. Our company also offers 24-hour repair services in the Conroe, Houston, and The Woodlands area.

Please contact us at (936) 756-0442 to schedule a service appointment.

Our electricians possess the equipment and knowledge required to ensure your system is fully operational. We’re committed to doing the job right the first time. All work will be performed in a craftsman-like manner and carry a full one-year warranty.

Resources:

“Locating Air Leaks.” ENERGY STAR.

“Save Energy in Your Household with a Smart Power Strip.” The U.S. Department of Energy.

“The Health Benefits of Natural Light (and 7 Ways to Get More of It).” Healthline.

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‘Tis the Season for Outdoor Decorating

Many Texans are already trimming the tree and decking the halls, not to mention creating festive holiday displays outside, bringing holiday cheer to them and their neighbors. You can drive through Conroe to see houses all aglow with holiday lights, twinkling luminaries, joyful signs, and light-up reindeer and other yard displays.

Do you favor a minimalist look with touches of greenery and classic decorations? Or are you inspired by Clark Griswold’s decorating style in the 1989 film National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation? Whichever decorating style you prefer, it is essential to ensure your residential wiring is up to code and follow these essential safety tips.

Inspect Light Strings

For safety, you should always inspect light strings, whether new or old. Replace sets with broken sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections as they pose a risk of electrical fire. Use a light tester to check for burnt-out fuses and light bulbs and make replacements before stringing the lights.

Use Light Clips and a Hanging Tool

When you get ready to illuminate your house, don’t follow Clark Griswold’s example of using staples or nails; always use light clips. There are various clips on the market today that can be placed on your home’s gutters or attached under the roof’s shingles. Also, rather than get up on a ladder, use an expandable pole to attach the clips and lights.

Plug into an Electrical GFCI Outlet

Always plug holiday displays into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). GFCIs monitor for ground faults and, should one be detected, immediately interrupt the power to prevent electrical fires. An electrician must install these as they possess the skills and equipment necessary to complete residential wiring projects.

Prevent Extension Cords from Becoming a Hazard

Because your holiday lights and decorations will be exposed to the elements, make sure they and extension cords are rated for outdoor use, referring to the letter “W.” Some features to look for include a GFCI, lighted plug, and locking socket. Tape extension cords down to prevent people from tripping over them. Also, take care not to overload the circuit.

Schedule a Residential Wiring Inspection Today

It is essential to have a licensed electrician service residential wiring and electrical components. A&H Electric can expertly handle all your electrical projects, regardless of complexity, ensuring your system is up to code and optimally operating.

A&H Electric is a certified and licensed residential and commercial electrician specializing in installation, service, and repair. Our company is proud to help with your electrical system in Conroe, Texas, and neighboring communities.

Please schedule a service appointment today at (936) 756-0442.

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Don’t Be Haunted by Flickering Lights

A rare full moon, Jack-O’-Lanterns, and ghost pathway markers will provide ample lighting on Halloween night. Only one of these three sources, depending on its method of illumination, should flicker. Flickering lights are a serious issue that, in most cases, requires a professional to service electric.

What is Flicker?

The U.S. Department of Energy defines flicker “as the rapid variation in light source intensity, which can cause visual effects ranging from uncomfortable to harmful or dangerous.” It can occur at several frequencies regardless of the type of light fixture or bulb. Even LEDs can flicker under the right conditions (U.S. Department of Energy).

This definition emphasizes the importance of having the cause of flickering lights identified so that repairs can be made, as needed, to your residential wiring or other electrical components. A licensed electrician can diagnose the issue and make recommendations to service electric.

What Causes It?

There are many possible causes of flickering lights. These typically vary in terms of complexity. A less complicated problem that isn’t too frightening involves a loose light bulb. It can cause a flicker and may also burnout far more swiftly. Correct the issue by tightening the bulb. Consider purchasing LEDs, which offer a longer lifespan and energy efficiency.

Next in complexity is an incompatibility between a light bulb and a dimmer switch. Today’s dimmer switches require dimmable LEDs but to ensure compatibly it is essential to check the bulb’s box. Some controllers may be compatible with smart LEDs operated by a smartphone app or voice assistant.

More severe problems that require immediate professional assistance include voltage fluctuations and faulty residential wiring. These issues should be immediately corrected to prevent costly additional issues or damage to your appliances, electronics, or your home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical malfunction caused 44,880 home fires between 2012 and 2016.

Service Electric Today

It’s essential to have a licensed electrician service electric components within your home or office. A&H Electric can expertly handle all your electrical projects, regardless of complexity, ensuring your system is up to code and optimally operating.

A&H Electric is a certified and licensed residential and commercial electrician specializing in installation, service, and repair. Our company is proud to help with your electrical system in Conroe, Texas, and neighboring communities.

Please schedule an appointment today at (936) 756-0442.

Resources:
“Flicker.” The U.S. Department of Energy: Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy.
“Flicker Basics.” The U.S. Department of Energy: Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy.
“Home Electrical Fires.” The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
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Common Residential Wiring Problems

With temperatures in the 90s, Texans are relying on their air conditioners to help keep them cool and comfortable, so the last thing anyone wants to deal with is residential wiring problems. If your lights flicker each time the air conditioner or another major appliance kicks on, or you’re using too many surge protectors to power your work-from-home equipment, then its advisable to contact a certified electrician. These may be signs that your house has a wiring issue.

Flickering Lights

There are several reasons for the lights in your home to flicker. It may be a simple fix, such as a loose bulb or faulty fixture, or something far more complex. Do the lights flash in response to turning on the light or powering on an appliance? Then there may be a problem with either your electric current or wiring, both of which are best left addressed by a certified electrician.

Not Enough Outlets

Having an inadequate number of outlets to power all your gadgets – especially if you’re still working remotely – increases the need to rely on surge protectors. While no electrical problem exists with this habit, if you’re not overloading the circuit, you may want to consider contacting an electrician. An electrician can wire new outlets, including GFCIs and those with built-in USB Type C ports, for the ultimate in charging convenience.

Unwanted Visitors

Rodents love to find warm places to hang their “home sweet home” sign. They can make their nests in walls, crawlspaces, and other areas where they can chew through your wiring. If you see or hear any activity in your walls, it’s essential to contact a trap company, and if you’re experiencing problems with your electric system, an electrician to repair any diagnosed damage.

Residential Electrical Services

From residential wiring to repair, A&H Electric can expertly handle all your electrical projects, regardless of complexity. There is no job too big or small for our licensed and insured electricians. The following is a shortlist of the services we provide to homeowners throughout Conroe and neighboring communities.

  • Whole-house generator installation
  • Breaker panel and circuit service
  • Lighting installation and repair
  • Outlet and switch installation
  • ARC-fault breaker installation
  • Home electrical safety checks
  • Upgrade electrical service
  • Surge protection
  • Code corrections
  • New wiring

Upon arrival, a certified electrician will troubleshoot any issues, identifying the root cause of the problem. You’ll be provided with an explanation of their findings in which you’re welcome to ask any questions, as well as their recommendation, along with an upfront estimated cost and time scheduled so that you may make an informed decision.

Residential Wiring Installation, Service, & Repair

It is essential to have a certified electrician, like A&H Electric, complete all electrical work to ensure your system is up to code and operating reliably and safely. Schedule an appointment with an electrical contractor experienced in residential wiring installation, service, and repair today at (936) 756-0442. A&H Electric is a certified residential and commercial electrician specializing in installation, service, and repair. Our company is proud to offer our services in Conroe and the surrounding communities of Texas.

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3 Electrical Mistakes You May Be Making

While there are plenty of home improvement projects that you can do yourself, you should always call in a certified electrician, such as A&H Electric to make repairs or replace your electrical system. Adding new outlets, including GFCIs, should also be handled by a professional to prevent problems. Here are three common electrical mistakes that you may be making and how to avoid them.

Overloading Circuits

Most households have dozens of electronics drawing power. A problem presents itself when too many chargers or power cords are plugged into one outlet – by plugging multiple devices into a power or extension cord – at a time. Doing this can cause your home’s circuits to trip frequently, lights to flicker or dim, or mild shock. At worse, it can result in a residential fire. Prevent overloading your circuits by minimizing the number of devices plugged into an outlet. If you need more outlets, contact a certified electrician, like A&H Electric.

Failing to Use a Surge Protector

Unlike power strips, surge protectors protect your valuable electronics from damaging spikes in electricity. A device with 3,000 or more joules – the amount of energy it can safely absorb – will provide the best protection for most home theater and office equipment. You can find surge protectors online with anywhere from six to 14 outlets. Another idea to consider is a whole house surge protector. When professionally installed, these protectors will prevent power surges from damaging your gadgets and appliances.

Not Hiring a Certified Electrician

Considering that electrical problems are the second leading cause of home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association, issues must be be promptly diagnosed and repaired by a certified electrician. These professionals have the expertise and equipment required to do the job safely and effectively. Equally, you will need to call an electrician for pre- and post-remodel inspections, as required by your city or county. A professional will inspect any electrical work to ensure it is safe.

A&H Electric specializes in the installation, repair, and service of electrical wiring systems in both commercial and residential properties throughout Conroe and the surrounding communities of Texas. Contact us today at (936) 756-0442 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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Safety Tips for Electric Fireplaces

 

One of the many joys of winter is snuggling up under a cozy throw, watching holiday favorites, with a fireplace providing warmth. However, if you do not have a wood- or gas-burning fireplace in your home, you can create a cozy feel regardless of the season with an electric fireplace.

These appliances provide all the realism of a traditional fireplace without impacting your indoor air quality. There is no soot to clean or risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Similar to a space heater, they can quickly heat a room and may save you money, since they do so much more efficiently than your HVAC unit.

Think of them as a heating blanket but for the whole room. Another advantage is their space-saving design. An electric fireplace is ideal for homes where square footage is at a premium; apartments included.

Where to Buy Electric Fireplaces?

You’ll find a vast selection of models with various features available at most any local home improvement store and online. There are wall mount, media consoles, and wall inserts. Wall inserts can even be installed in the space of a non-functioning fireplace. Prices for these appliances vary, depending on desired design and features.

Home Heating Safety Tips

According to the National Fire Protection Association, about 23,000 home fires are attributed to space heating equipment. Contributing factors include inadequate safety features, insufficient clearance to combustibles, and faulty plugs or connections. Misuse of the heater is another potential fire hazard. Keep your home warm and safe during Texas’s fall and winter seasons with the following tips.

Certification: Make sure UL certifies the unit. UL Certification is the best way to ensure everything from extension cords to TVs are safe to use. It will be listed on the product, along with its packaging and owner’s manual, for easy reference.

Never Use Outdoors: These units are not intended for outdoor use nor in areas of high humidity such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Also, avoid placing water on or nearby electric fireplaces to prevent electric shock.

Plug the Heater into a GFCI Outlet: A ground-fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, is a protective device specifically designed to shut off power quickly enough to prevent an electrical incident. Because a GFCI protects against overheating, plugging a heater into one just makes sense. A certified electrician can install additional GFCI’s in your home.

Keep Objects and Fingers a Safe Distance Away: The heater is HOT when in use, so to prevent burns, it’s essential that you avoid touching it. Additionally, you’ll want to keep all combustible materials (e.g., furniture, throws, papers, etc.) three feet away from it in all directions.

Other safety tips include unplugging the heater when not in use, whether you’re going to be away or catching some ZZZ’s, as well as keeping children and pets away from the fireplace. Remember that electric fireplaces can get very hot.

Contact a Professional Electrician Today

Before adding a new electric fireplace or another appliance, you should consider hiring a certified electrician, such as A&H Electric, to come out to your home and perform a comprehensive electrical safety inspection. We can also add GFCIs for your new equipment.

A&H Electric specializes in the installation, repair, and service of electrical wiring systems in both commercial and residential properties throughout Conroe and the surrounding communities of Texas. Contact us today at (936) 756-0442 for more information or to schedule an appointment.