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Fix It Central Texas

Electrical & Safety

Flickering lights, dead outlets, panel upgrades, and keeping your home safe.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to replace an outlet myself?
Replacing a like-for-like outlet on a single circuit is reasonable for a confident DIYer who knows how to shut off the breaker and test the line is dead. Anything in a kitchen or bathroom (which needs a GFCI), anything in a wet area, or a circuit that has been tripping repeatedly is a job for a licensed electrician.
Why do my lights flicker?
Loose neutrals, overloaded circuits, and failing breakers are the common culprits inside the home. If lights flicker across the whole house at once, it can also point to a utility-side problem with the service drop. An electrician will isolate which side of the meter the issue is on.
Do I need a permit for electrical work in Central Texas?
Most cities do not require a permit for like-for-like replacements (one outlet, one switch). New circuits, panel work, generator or EV-charger installs, and anything tied into the service panel almost always need a permit. Check with your city permit office before starting.
When should I upgrade my electrical panel?
If your home still has a 100-amp panel and you are adding HVAC capacity, EV charging, solar, or a hot tub, you are likely near the panel limit. A licensed electrician can perform a load calculation and tell you whether you need a 200-amp upgrade or just a sub-panel.
Why does my GFCI outlet keep tripping?
Either it is doing its job (catching a real ground fault from a damaged appliance or moisture in the line) or the GFCI itself has failed. If a single outlet trips only when one specific appliance is plugged in, the appliance is the issue. If it trips at random with nothing plugged in, replace the GFCI.