Home should feel steady and safe. When lights are flickering on and off or breakers are tripping, it can feel the exact opposite. I meet homeowners across Lubbock who deal with these headaches every week. The good news is that these warning signs are fixable. In many cases, the best solution is to upgrade circuits or install a new electric panel so your system matches today’s power demands.
Signs You Should Not Ignore
- Lights flickering on and off when the microwave, hair dryer, or AC starts
- Breakers tripping often, especially on the same outlets or rooms
- Warm or buzzing breaker panel or outlet covers
- Burning smell or discoloration near outlets or the panel
- Old fuse box or an electric panel that is decades old
- Devices that lag or shut off when multiple appliances run at once
If you notice one or more of these, your electric system may be overloaded, undersized, or simply outdated. I recommend a safety check before small issues become bigger problems.
Why It Happens (In Plain Language)
Overloaded or Undersized Circuits
Modern homes use far more power than they did 20 or 30 years ago. Add in today’s appliances, EV chargers, gaming systems, home offices, and you can see why older wiring struggles. When a circuit feeds too many devices, voltage can dip and lights may flicker.
Aging or Outdated Panels
Older panels may not deliver enough amperage for your home. They may also lack modern safety features. When demand rises, an old panel can cause nuisance trips or, in rare cases, unsafe heat buildup.
Loose or Worn Connections
Connections can loosen over time. Heat cycles, vibration, and corrosion can reduce contact and create hot spots. This can lead to flicker, tripping, and premature equipment wear.
Sensitive or Failing Breakers
Breakers are safety devices. When they trip, they are doing their job. But older or failing breakers may trip too easily or not fast enough. Either way, replacement or an upgrade may be needed.
What “Upgrading Your Electric” May Include
I tailor every recommendation to the home and the family’s needs. Here are common upgrades that solve flicker and tripping issues:
Upgrade Circuits
- Add dedicated circuits for heavy appliances like microwaves, space heaters, treadmills, or window AC units.
- Balance loads across the panel so no single circuit is doing too much work.
New Electric Panel
- Replace a small, crowded, or outdated panel with a new electric panel that has the right amperage and modern safety features.
- Label every breaker clearly so you always know what it controls.
Whole-Home Surge Protection
- Protect sensitive electronics from storm surges and utility spikes that are common across West Texas.
GFCI and AFCI Protection
- Install GFCI in wet areas and AFCI where arc faults can occur. These devices help prevent shocks and electrical fires.
Grounding and Bonding Improvements
- Correct grounding issues so your system is stable, safe, and code compliant.
Simple Steps To Try Now
Before I arrive, there are a few safe checks you can do:
- Unplug or turn off a few items on the problem circuit and see if the flicker stops.
- Note when the issue happens (for example, “when the dryer starts”). This helps me locate the source faster.
- Do not reset a breaker repeatedly if it trips right away. Frequent resetting can hide a real hazard.
- Do not touch hot, scorched, or buzzing components. Call a licensed electrician.
Why Homeowners in Lubbock Choose Armstrong
I take a personal approach to every home because your safety and comfort matter. At Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric, my team and I have served Lubbock and the surrounding areas since 1934. We are family owned and operated, and our work is guided by core values: integrity, innovation, customer satisfaction, commitment, and relationship-building.
- Integrity: I provide clear options and pricing before work begins.
- Innovation: My team stays current with the latest industry trends, products, and services, including smart panels and advanced surge protection.
- Customer Satisfaction: We test our work, clean up, and walk you through what to expect.
- Commitment: Permits, inspections, and local codes are handled the right way.
- Relationship-Building: I aim to earn your trust for every future project, big or small.
What You Gain From an Upgrade
Safer Operation
Properly sized circuits and updated breakers reduce heat buildup and electrical risks.
Stronger, More Stable Power
A right-sized panel and balanced circuits help eliminate dips that cause lights to flicker and electronics to glitch.
Room To Grow
Planning a kitchen remodel, outdoor kitchen, EV charger, or a shop in the garage? An upgraded electric system gives you capacity for tomorrow.
Better Resale Appeal
Buyers appreciate modern electrical systems with clear labeling, GFCI/AFCI protection, and surge protection.
Ready To Stop the Flicker?
If your lights are flickering on and off or your breakers are tripping, I am ready to help. I can inspect your panel, measure loads, and recommend the best path forward, whether that means targeted repairs, a plan to upgrade circuits, or a new electric panel. You will get straight talk, clear options, and craftsmanship you can count on.
Take control of your home’s power today. Contact Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric for a professional electrical evaluation in Lubbock, TX and nearby communities. I am ready to restore safety, stability, and peace of mind.
Call Armstrong now or schedule online to get started.
