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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.