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Is Your Home Ready for Summer Storms? Generator & Surge Tips” Summer storms in Texas can be unpredictable — and power outages are the last thing you want during the hottest months. If you’ve ever found yourself in the dark after a storm, you know how inconvenient and stressful it can be. But don’t worry, A&M Electrical Services is here with expert tips to help keep your home powered and safe during storm season. 🌩️ Surge Protection: The First Line of Defense Lightning strikes and power surges can cause serious damage to your electronics, appliances, and electrical system. A surge protector is an easy fix to prevent costly repairs or replacements. Here’s what we recommend: Whole-house surge protectors: Installed at your panel, these protect everything in your home from a sudden spike in power. Point-of-use protectors: These are smaller, plug-in devices for your most sensitive electronics, like computers and TVs. 🔋 Backup Generators: Your Lifesaver During an Outage Power outages can last for hours, or even days, especially during storms. A backup generator ensures that your lights stay on, your fridge stays cold, and your family stays comfortable. Here’s why you should consider installing one: Automatic transfer switch: The generator kicks in immediately when the power goes out, so you don’t have to worry about flipping switches or losing time. Essential appliances only: Most home generators are designed to power critical systems like your refrigerator, A/C, and lights. Fuel options: Whether you go with a propane or natural gas unit, we’ll help you choose the right generator for your needs. ⚡ Electrical Safety in Storms Even with surge protection and a generator, electrical safety is key. Make sure to: Unplug appliances when not in use, especially during storms, to avoid power surges. Test your GFCI outlets regularly to ensure they’re functioning correctly, especially after a storm or flood. Keep your power panel dry: If your breaker box gets wet, it can cause dangerous electrical issues. How A&M Electrical Services Can Help If you’re ready to stormproof your home, A&M Electrical Services offers: Surge protector installation Generator installations and maintenance Electrical safety inspections Don’t wait until the next storm hits! Contact us today to schedule your home’s electrical checkup and ensure you’re ready for whatever the weather brings. 📞 Schedule Your Inspection Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep your home powered with A&M Electrical Services. — The A&M Team ⚡

🌞 Easy Ways to Lower Your Summer Electric Bill in Texas Summer in Texas means fun in the sun, but it also means higher electric bills. With the temperatures soaring, your A/C is running non-stop, and your other appliances are working harder than ever. But don’t worry — there are simple ways to lower your energy costs and keep your home cool without breaking the bank. Here’s how to beat the heat and the bills: 🌬 1. Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances When it’s time to replace appliances, choose energy-efficient models. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates a significant reduction in energy usage. LED light bulbs also use less power and last longer, making them a great first step in your energy-saving journey. 🔌 2. Install a Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature when you're away or sleeping. Set it to a higher temperature during the day and cool down before you return home. It’s a smart and simple way to reduce your A/C’s workload. 🌞 3. Use Fans to Circulate Cool Air Fans are a cheaper alternative to A/C for staying cool. Ceiling fans or portable fans can help circulate air and make the room feel cooler, so you won’t have to turn the temperature down as low. ⚡ 4. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting Switch to LED lights, which use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and can save you a significant amount on your monthly electric bill. Plus, those old incandescent lights produce a lot of heat--not something we need this summer! 🌿 5. Seal Leaks and Insulate Your Home Keep cool air in and hot air out by sealing any drafts around windows and doors. Insulating your attic and walls also prevents heat from entering your home, making it easier to keep things comfortable without overworking your A/C. 🧰 6. Consider Solar Power If you’re ready to make a bigger investment, solar panels can reduce your energy costs in the long run by harnessing the sun’s power. In Texas, with all that sunlight, it’s a smart investment! Need an Energy Audit? At A&M Electrical Services, we offer electrical inspections and energy audits to help you find the best ways to save on your electric bill. We can help you pinpoint areas of improvement and even handle the upgrades for you. 📞 Contact us today to schedule an inspection and start saving! Stay cool and save big this summer, Corsicana! — The A&M Team ⚡

The Texas sun isn’t just draining your energy — it’s draining your home’s, too. During the hottest months, your electrical system is working overtime. If your wiring, breaker panel, or outlets are outdated, it could lead to blown breakers, fried appliances, or worse — electrical fires. Here’s why summer is especially tough on your system: 🔥 1. A/C Demands Skyrocket Your air conditioner pulls more energy than almost anything else in your house. When it’s running non-stop, that strain shows up in your breaker panel. 💡 2. Multiple Appliances Running at Once You’re inside more, cooking more, and relying on fans, fridges, and electronics. The load adds up — especially in older homes. 🧰 3. Old Panels Can’t Handle It Many homes in Corsicana still have 100-amp panels or outdated fuse boxes. Today’s families need more power — safely delivered. ⚡ 4. Signs You’re Near the Limit Breakers trip frequently Lights flicker or dim when appliances start Outlets feel warm to the touch Buzzing sounds from your panel What You Can Do ✔️ Don’t run heavy appliances at the same time ✔️ Upgrade to energy-efficient lighting and appliances ✔️ Have a licensed electrician inspect your panel and wiring ✔️ Install a whole-home surge protector At A&M Electrical Services, we’re helping Corsicana homeowners stay cool — and safe — with professional inspections, upgrades, and repairs. 📞 Don’t wait for the next outage. Schedule a summer power check today. 940-390-7606 Stay cool, stay safe, — Your local team at A&M Electrical Services ⚡

Most people wait until the lights flicker or the breakers trip to think about their home’s wiring. We say — get ahead of the sparks. A mid-year electrical inspection isn’t just about safety; it’s about peace of mind. Here’s how to tell it might be time to call in the pros: 🔥 1. You Smell Something… Off Burning smells (like melted plastic) near outlets or switches can be a serious warning sign. Unplug any nearby appliances and turn off the power to that area. Then call a professional to see where the problem is--it could even be behind the wall. 💡 2. Lights Flicker or Dim When Appliances Run If your lights go disco every time the microwave turns on, your system may be overloaded. This might go on without problem for a while, but it could cause the wires to melt and ignite a fire. ⚠️ 3. You Use More Extension Cords Than Outlets Relying heavily on power strips can mean your home wasn’t wired for today’s demand. It’s time to upgrade! Older homes are especially prone to too few circuits. 🕰 4. Your Breaker Box Looks Like a Time Capsule Older breaker panels may not handle the load from modern appliances — especially during a Texas summer. A few of the older ones are even known to catch fire and could ignite the entire home. 🔌 5. You’re Planning a Remodel or Adding Appliances Don’t wait for trouble. Make sure your wiring can handle the upgrade. Do not just connect new wires to old wires and hope everything works our. Just because there is power, doesn't mean there are not some problems lurking in the future. A&M Electrical Services offers quick, affordable home inspections — so you can spend your summer enjoying popsicles, not power outages. 🧰 Call us today at 940-390-7606 and let’s make sure everything’s wired right. Stay safe out there, Corsicana! — The A&M Team ⚡

4th of July Electrical Safety Tips: Stay Shock-Free This Summer” Summer fun should never come with sparks — unless they’re in the sky. The 4th of July is a time for grilling, gathering, and gazing at fireworks. But all that celebration can push your home’s electrical system to its limit. Here are a few quick safety tips to keep your family safe and your party powered: 🔌 1. Use Outdoor-Rated Cords Only Many folks don’t realize extension cords are not one-size-fits-all. Outdoor-rated cords are built to withstand heat, moisture, and wear. Always check the label! ⚠️ 2. Don’t Overload Outlets Plugging in too many appliances or decorations can trip a breaker—or worse, start a fire. Space things out and unplug items when not in use. 🧼 3. Keep Water and Cords Apart Kiddie pools, sprinklers, water balloons — they don’t mix well with electricity. Make sure cords are clear of wet areas, and if possible, elevate them to stay dry. ✅ 4. Test Your GFCIs Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (those “reset” outlets in kitchens, baths, and outdoors) are your first defense against shocks. Press “test” and “reset” before the big day to make sure they’re working properly. 🧰 5. Know Your Limits If your breaker panel looks like it came with the house in 1975, it might be time for a checkup. Aging systems can struggle with modern electrical loads. Need help before your big BBQ? Give A&M Electrical Services a call ! We proudly serve Corsicana and surrounding areas — from holiday checkups to full panel upgrades. 🔗 Contact Us Today! at 940-390-7606 Have a safe and sparkling Independence Day! — The A&M Team 🇺🇸⚡

Outlets Through the Ages: When to Update Your Home’s Electrical Receptacles Your home’s electrical outlets may seem like a small detail, but they’ve come a long way over the years—and knowing what you have (and what you should have) is key to keeping your home safe and up to code. Old Two-Prong Outlets: If your home still has those older two-prong outlets, it’s time to consider an upgrade. These outlets don’t have a grounding wire, which means they offer less protection from electrical shock or damage to electronics. Most modern appliances and chargers require three-prong outlets, so holding on to the old ones isn’t just unsafe—it’s also inconvenient. Three-Prong Outlets: Three-prong outlets became standard in the mid-20th century and offer a grounding path for excess electricity. If your home was built after the 1960s, chances are you’ve got these throughout. However, even these may need updating if they’ve worn out or are loose, cracked, or discolored. GFCI Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are now required by code in areas where water is present—like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, and outdoor spaces. These outlets are easily recognizable by their “reset” and “test” buttons. GFCIs monitor the electrical current and shut off instantly if there’s an imbalance, reducing the risk of shock. If your kitchen still has standard outlets near the sink, it’s definitely time for a change. Newer Options: Today’s outlets come in all shapes and sizes to meet modern needs. Want to charge your phone without a power brick? Install a USB outlet. Want to future-proof your home? Consider tamper-resistant or smart outlets that work with home automation systems. When to Replace Outlets: If your outlets are warm to the touch, emit a burning smell, have black marks, or don’t hold plugs securely—those are signs it’s time to call a licensed electrician. Also, if your home’s electrical system hasn’t been inspected in over 10 years, an update could protect both your property and your peace of mind. At A&M Electrical Services , we’re here to help bring your home up to date and keep your family safe. Give us a call at 940-390-7606 for an outlet inspection or upgrade today!

Customer Q&A: Top 7 Electrical Myths—Busted by A & M At A & M Electrical Services, we’ve heard it all—from DIY daredevils to well-meaning homeowners passing down “helpful tips” that are more spark than sense. So today, we’re setting the record straight by busting seven of the most common electrical myths we hear right here in Corsicana and around Navarro County. Myth #1: If it works, it’s safe. Truth: Just because your outlet is powering your coffee maker doesn’t mean it’s up to code. Outdated wiring, missing grounds, or overused circuits may be one flicker away from becoming a fire hazard. Myth #2: A power strip is the same as a surge protector. Truth: Nope! A power strip only gives you more outlets. A surge protector guards your appliances from voltage spikes—especially important during Texas thunderstorms. Myth #3: You can use a 3-prong plug with a 2-prong adapter just fine. Truth: Those little gray adapters may seem convenient, but they often bypass proper grounding, which is essential for safety. This quick fix could lead to big trouble. Myth #4: If the breaker keeps tripping, just reset it. Truth: A breaker that trips repeatedly isn’t being moody—it’s warning you that something’s wrong. Constant resets are like putting a Band-Aid on a broken arm. Myth #5: DIY wiring is cheaper and just as good. Truth: While YouTube might show you how to wire a ceiling fan, it won’t show you what’s behind your walls—or the fire risk of doing it wrong. Trust us, we’ve seen the aftermath. Myth #6: All electricians are the same. Truth: Not quite. At A & M, we’re licensed, insured, and local. That means we know Texas codes, we know Corsicana homes, and we stand behind every job with integrity. Myth #7: Flickering lights just mean you need a new bulb. Truth: Maybe—but it could also mean loose wiring, overloaded circuits, or bigger panel issues. Don’t ignore the signs! Need the truth about your home’s electrical system? Let’s talk. At A & M Electrical Services, we believe in honest answers, no scare tactics, and electrical work that’s done right the first time. Whether you’ve got questions, flickering lights, or just want a second opinion, give us a call today at 940-390-7606 . ⚡ Serving Corsicana and surrounding areas with expert residential and commercial electrical work.

Powerful Effects of Little Fans 🕰️ A Brief Spin Through History Ceiling fans have been around since the 1800s, originally powered by running water and pulley systems before electricity became the norm. By the early 1900s, electrically powered fans became a staple in Southern homes and businesses. Over time, they evolved from clunky workhorses to quiet, sleek, and even smart-home-compatible appliances. ⚙️ Then vs. Now Today’s ceiling fans are lightyears ahead of their old-school ancestors. With efficient DC motors, remote controls, and energy-saving LED lighting, they use a fraction of the energy. Many even carry the ENERGY STAR® label, which means less power and more savings. 💵 The Texas-Sized Savings Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the A/C bill. Running a ceiling fan costs just $1.50 to $5/month, while A/C can hit $100–$300/month. By using fans and raising your thermostat by just 4 degrees, you could save up to 15% on cooling costs. That’s $200–$400 a year back in your pocket. Now that’s a breeze worth catching. 🌬️ 🧰 A Smart Upgrade Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms—so they’re perfect when you’re home, and nearly useless when you’re not. Combine that with proper direction settings (yes, fans spin differently in summer and winter), and you’ve got year-round comfort with pennies on the dollar. Whether you're swapping an old fan or wiring one into a brand-new space, A & M Electrical Services has you covered. Stay cool, save money, and skip the wobbly DIY install. Call Today! 📞 940-390-7606 A & M Electrical Services – Professional. Local. Reliable.

Is Your Breaker the Right Size? Why It Matters—Especially for Your A/C Condenser “Does it really matter what size breaker I use?” The short answer? Absolutely. Using the correct breaker size isn’t just about staying within code—it’s about protecting your home, your appliances, and your peace of mind. One of the most common issues we see here in Texas is oversized breakers being installed for air conditioner condensers. It might seem harmless—after all, if it’s bigger, it must be better, right? Not exactly. Here’s the deal: breakers are designed to trip (shut off) when the current flowing through a circuit gets too high. This prevents overheating, wire damage, or even fires. But if the breaker is too large for the wire or appliance it’s protecting, it might not trip when it’s supposed to. That means your A/C condenser could be cooking itself from the inside out before you ever notice a problem. A/C units come with a manufacturer’s label that lists the Maximum Overcurrent Protection Device (MOCP)—basically, the largest breaker you should ever use for that unit. If the label says 30 amps, that’s your ceiling. Installing a 40-amp breaker just because "it was available" could void your warranty and potentially damage the unit beyond repair. Unfortunately, this breaker problem is found on many homes, especially on older systems or DIY installs. If the AC is not original to the house, there is a good chance it is wrong. Sometimes it’s done to stop nuisance tripping, but that’s treating the symptom—not the cause. If you’re unsure whether your system is protected properly, we’re happy to check it out. It’s a quick inspection that could save you a hefty repair bill—or worse. At A and M Electrical Services, we believe in doing it right the first time. Give us a call if you’ve got questions, or just want a second set of eyes on your setup. Your appliances (and your wallet) will thank you. 940-390-7606