Frequently Asked Questions

If your breakers trip frequently, you rely on extension cords, or you're adding modern appliances like HVAC or EV chargers, your panel likely needs more capacity. Older Lubbock homes often have undersized panels that can't handle today's electrical demands. At A&E Electric, we perform panel evaluations to ensure safe, code-compliant power distribution.

Immediately turn off power at the main breaker if safe to do so, evacuate the area, and call a licensed electrician right away. Burning smells indicate overheating wires or failing components that pose fire risks. A&E Electric offers 24/7 emergency response throughout Lubbock and West Texas to diagnose and resolve these hazards quickly.

Yes, but the panel must have sufficient capacity and a dedicated circuit must be installed. Many older homes in Lubbock require a panel upgrade before adding EV charger loads. At A&E Electric, we evaluate your existing electrical system and ensure code-compliant installation by a licensed Master Electrician.

Heavy air conditioning use in West Texas can overload circuits, especially in homes with undersized panels or shared circuits. Frequent tripping indicates your system can't handle peak demand. A&E Electric can diagnose overloaded circuits and recommend panel upgrades or dedicated lines to support your HVAC system safely.

A service call addresses non-urgent issues like adding outlets or upgrading lighting, while an emergency call responds to immediate hazards like power outages, burning smells, or breaker failures. A&E Electric provides 24/7 emergency response for urgent electrical problems that threaten safety or property throughout Lubbock and surrounding areas.

Most residential panel upgrades take four to eight hours, depending on the complexity and whether new circuits are added. The work includes shutting off power, replacing the panel, reconnecting circuits, and restoring safe operation. At A&E Electric, we coordinate timing to minimize disruption and ensure code-compliant installation.

Flickering lights can indicate loose wiring, failing connections, or overloaded circuits—all of which pose fire risks if left unaddressed. It's safer to schedule an inspection before the issue escalates. A&E Electric provides accurate troubleshooting and repairs to prevent recurring electrical problems in West Texas homes and businesses.

Yes, Texas law requires permitted electrical work to be performed or supervised by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and code compliance. Remodels often involve panel modifications, new circuits, and updated wiring. A&E Electric operates under Master Electrician License 6286 and TXECL 21489, ensuring all work meets state standards.

Dead outlets are commonly caused by tripped GFCI breakers, loose wiring, or failed connections inside the outlet box. In older homes, damaged circuits or code violations may also be to blame. At A&E Electric, we safely diagnose and repair faulty outlets, ensuring reliable power and reducing recurring issues.

Yes, lightning strikes and power surges from storms can damage panels, breakers, and wiring, creating hidden hazards. West Texas storms are common, so post-storm inspections help identify issues before they escalate. A&E Electric offers 24/7 emergency service to assess and repair storm-related electrical damage throughout Lubbock.

Level 2 EV chargers typically draw 30 to 50 amps, equivalent to adding a large appliance like a dryer or range. Your panel must have enough spare capacity to support this dedicated circuit safely. A&E Electric evaluates your system and installs chargers with proper load calculations and code-compliant wiring.

Many homeowners ignore early warning signs like flickering lights or warm outlets, allowing small issues to become serious hazards. Delaying professional inspection increases fire risk and repair costs. At A&E Electric, we recommend scheduling troubleshooting at the first sign of trouble to protect your property and family.