Electrical questions, answered
General
How much does a panel upgrade cost in Houston?
Most 200 amp panel upgrades run $2,500 to $4,500. The price depends on the meter base, the distance to the panel and permit fees. We give you a written price first.
How much is a whole-home generator?
Standby generators with a transfer switch usually run $9,000 to $18,000 installed. Size, gas line length and permits change the price.
Do I need a permit for electrical work?
Panel and service upgrades, generators and new circuits need a City of Houston permit and an inspection. Small swaps like an outlet usually do not. We pull permits for you.
What is a CenterPoint disconnect?
On a panel upgrade, CenterPoint has to cut power at the meter and reconnect after the city inspection. It can add a few days, and we keep you updated at each step.
Are you licensed?
Yes. All work is done by electricians licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Apprentices always work under a master electrician.
Electrical repair
Why does my breaker keep tripping?
An overloaded circuit, a short or a failing breaker are the usual reasons. Resetting it again and again can hide a real hazard, so call an electrician.
Is a warm outlet dangerous?
Yes. A warm outlet often means a loose connection, which can overheat. Stop using it and call us.
Can you work on an old Federal Pacific panel?
We can inspect it and quote a replacement. These panels have a known history of breakers that fail to trip.
Do you handle storm damage?
Yes. If your meter base or mast is damaged, the utility may need to disconnect power first. We help coordinate it.
Panel and service upgrades
How long does a panel upgrade take?
The install takes a day. Permit, inspection and the CenterPoint steps can take one to three weeks overall.
Do I need 200 amps?
Most Houston homes with central AC, electric cooking and an EV charger do. We run a load calculation to confirm.
Will my power be off?
Yes, for most of the install day. We plan it with you and tell you when it will return.
What about a Federal Pacific panel?
We suggest replacing it. These panels have a record of breakers that fail to trip under overload.
EV charger install
How much does a home EV charger install cost in Houston?
Many installs usually land between $800 and $1,800 for a simple job. Longer runs or a panel upgrade cost more.
Can I use a regular outlet?
A standard 120-volt outlet is very slow. A 240-volt Level 2 charger is much faster.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, in Houston. We pull it and schedule the inspection.
What if my panel is full?
We can free up space, add a subpanel or upgrade the service. We explain the cost before work.
Standby generators
How big a generator do I need?
Houston homes with central AC usually need 18 to 24 kW for whole-home coverage. We size it by your actual loads.
Where does the generator go?
On a pad at least 5 feet from openings and in line with local rules. HOAs may also have say.
Does it run on natural gas?
Most do. Propane is an option when no gas line is available.
How long does the process take?
Permits, gas meter and inspection can take weeks. After an outage, lead times grow.
Outlets and switches
Why does my GFCI keep tripping?
Moisture, a worn device or a ground fault on the circuit can cause it. An electrician can find which one.
Can I replace an outlet myself?
Homeowners may do some work on their own home, but wiring errors cause fires. We suggest a licensed electrician.
Do you install USB outlets?
Yes. They are a good fit for kitchens, bedrooms and offices.
Is a loose outlet dangerous?
It can be. Loose connections create heat. Fix them early.
Lighting and fans
Do I need a special box for a ceiling fan?
Yes. A fan-rated box holds the weight and the motion. A normal light box can fall.
How many recessed lights do I need?
A rule of thumb is one for every 4 to 6 feet of ceiling. We plan the layout with you.
Can you hang a heavy fixture?
Yes. We add braces in the ceiling when needed.
Do LED lights save money?
Yes. They use less power and run cooler, which also helps your AC.
Cost
Why does electrical work cost more in Houston after a storm?
Demand jumps, parts run short and utility steps can slow down jobs. Planning ahead helps.
Do I need a permit?
For many jobs, yes. Panel and service upgrades, generators and EV chargers need a permit in Houston.
Can I do some electrical work myself?
Texas law allows some work on your own home, but it must meet code and often needs a permit. We suggest a licensed electrician.
Are these your prices?
No. They are typical Houston ranges. Prices marked as ours come from our own price list.