Question 1

How much does it cost to hire an electrician in Houston?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary depending on the scope of work. A typical service call starts at around $89-$150 for the trip fee plus diagnostics. Larger projects like panel upgrades or generator installations are quoted after an on-site evaluation. We always provide a detailed, upfront estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises.

Question 2

Do I need a permit for electrical work in Houston?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the City of Houston requires permits for most electrical work beyond simple fixture replacements. This includes panel upgrades, new circuits, and EV charger installations. Tex-Star Electric handles all permit applications and scheduling of inspections on your behalf as part of our service.

Question 3

How do I know if my electrical panel needs an upgrade?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include frequently tripping breakers, a panel that is warm to the touch, a fuse box instead of a breaker panel, or a 100-amp panel that cannot keep up with modern appliances. If your home was built before 1990 or you are adding major appliances like an EV charger, a panel upgrade is often recommended.

Question 4

Can you install an EV charger at my home?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We are certified installers for Tesla Wall Connectors and other Level 2 chargers. The installation typically involves running a dedicated 240V circuit from your panel to your garage or driveway area. Most installations are completed in a single visit. We handle the permit as well.

Question 5

What areas in Houston do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve the entire Greater Houston metropolitan area including Katy, Sugar Land, Cypress, Spring, The Woodlands, Pearland, Missouri City, Richmond, Bellaire, Memorial, Heights, Montrose, Galleria, Kingwood, Humble, Pasadena, League City, and many more. If you are unsure whether we cover your area, just give us a call.

Question 6

How long does a whole-home rewire take?

Accepted Answer

A complete rewire for an average-sized Houston home (1,500-2,500 sq ft) typically takes 5-7 business days. The exact timeline depends on the size of your home, accessibility of existing wiring, and whether walls need to be opened. We work to minimize disruption and keep your home livable throughout the process.

Question 7

What is a whole-home surge protector and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A whole-home surge protector is installed at your electrical panel and protects all your devices and appliances from voltage spikes. In Houston, where storms and power grid fluctuations are common, it is a smart investment. It protects electronics, HVAC systems, and appliances from damage that a simple power strip cannot prevent.

Question 8

What size generator do I need for my home?

Accepted Answer

The right generator size depends on what you want to power during an outage. A 7.5 kW generator can cover essential circuits like the refrigerator, lights, and a few outlets. A 22 kW unit can power your entire home including the AC system. We perform a load calculation to recommend the right size for your specific needs and budget.

Question 9

Are your electricians licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every electrician on our team is licensed through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Tex-Star Electric is fully insured with general liability and workers compensation coverage. We are happy to provide proof of insurance upon request.

Question 10

Do you offer financing for large electrical projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer flexible financing options for qualifying projects such as panel upgrades, whole-home rewires, generator installations, and other larger jobs. We can discuss payment plans during your free estimate. Our goal is to make essential electrical work accessible and affordable.

Question 11

How do I schedule a free estimate?

Accepted Answer

You can schedule a free estimate by calling us, filling out the contact form on our website, or sending us an email. We typically respond within a few hours during business hours and can often schedule your estimate within 1-2 business days.

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