Yes, all Laughlin technicians are fully licensed, insured, and highly trained to ensure the highest quality of service and safety for your home. Our electricians possess C-10 Electrical Contractor’s Licenses, Lutron Installation Certifications, and Journeyman Electrical Certifications, while our plumbers have C-36 Plumbing Licenses.

Laughlin offers 24/7 emergency booking services for electrical, drain cleaning, and plumbing issues. We answer our phones 24/7, so feel free to call us whenever you need. Your emergency service will be booked as soon as possible according to the Santa Barbara location hours.

Yes, we offer a guarantee on all our services, and our work is backed by a warranty to ensure long-lasting results.

If your electrical panel has never been replaced and you’re constantly flipping breakers, it may be time for a replacement. Additionally, if the breaker feels hot to the touch or smells like it’s burning, it is a clear indication that it needs to be replaced.

Yes, we offer comprehensive maintenance plans for most of our services to ensure your electrical, plumbing, and home entertainment systems are always in optimal condition.

You can schedule a service appointment by contacting us through our website or by calling our customer service line. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs.

Laughlin is committed to providing premier services focused on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Our highly skilled and certified professionals are fit to handle any job. By staying true to our commitment to quality, we promise to get the job done right the first time. While other companies may be concerned with securing as many jobs as possible in one day, our biggest goal is to provide excellent service to our clients.

Circuit breakers can last 30 to 40 years. However, if you are experiencing frequent issues with your breakers, it may be a sign that they need to be replaced sooner.

An overload is caused by too much power draw, which trips a breaker. If this becomes frequent, additional circuits can be added to your home to separate high-energy appliances and prevent overloads.

A short circuit occurs when aging wires become loose or worn, causing a hot wire to touch a neutral wire and disrupt the current’s path. If the appliance’s cord isn’t damaged, it is a sign that the cables behind the wall need maintenance.

A whole-house generator in Santa Barbara ensures that your home remains powered during outages caused by natural events like storms or earthquakes. It provides a higher wattage capacity to support all essential appliances and systems, offering seamless and automatic backup power. This means that when a power outage occurs, the generator detects the interruption and activates within seconds, restoring electricity to the entire house without manual intervention, which is particularly beneficial in areas prone to power disruptions.

Yes, {fran_brand_name provides comprehensive generator services for both portable and whole-house generators in Montecito, Goleta, and the surrounding Santa Barbara areas. Their experienced team can guide you through the selection process, manage the installation, and ensure that your generator is properly connected to your home's electrical system, including securing necessary permits and setting up an automatic transfer switch if required for whole-house generators.

Choosing between a portable generator and a whole-house generator for your Santa Barbara home depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require backup power for your entire home and want an automatic response to power outages, a whole-house generator is ideal. However, if you only need to power a few devices and prefer a more budget-friendly option, a portable generator might be sufficient. Laughlin Electric can provide personalized advice to help you make the best decision for your situation.

Choosing a local electrician should come down to more than availability or price. You're trusting someone with your home or property, so it's important to find a professional team that stands behind their work and values. Look for:

• Licensing and certifications
• Reputation
• Approach
• Transparency

These are standards we’ve focused on at Laughlin Electric for over 30 years.

Wiring fees can vary depending on the scope of work and whether you're wiring a new space or updating existing systems. At Laughlin Electric, we provide clear and detailed proposals so you know what to expect before any work begins.

Installation costs depend on the project's size and the type of equipment being installed. A new build or remodel with multiple circuits, lighting zones, and smart features will require more planning and labor than a simpler setup. We provide clear pricing with no hidden fees, so you know exactly what’s involved before work begins.

It depends on the issue. Some repairs are straightforward, like replacing a faulty outlet. Other jobs, such as diagnosing a breaker that keeps tripping or addressing panel problems, can take more time. We start by identifying the cause, then we’ll explain the fix and the cost before getting started.

Faulty wiring should always be handled by a licensed electrician. They’ll inspect the system, identify the cause, and make sure the repair is handled safely. At Laughlin Electric, we take the time to do the job right so the fix lasts.

A full electrical system check every 3 to 5 years is a good guideline. For older properties or homes with recent upgrades, more frequent inspections may be needed. Staying on top of maintenance keeps your electrical system safe, up to code, and running smoothly.

If you’ve noticed flickering lights or breakers that trip frequently, it’s best to have them inspected sooner.

Maintenance costs depend on the type of service needed. A routine cleaning is usually simple and less costly, while clearing buildup or tree roots in larger drain lines can take more time and may cost more.

At Laughlin Electric, we’ll assess the issue first, then walk you through the work and cost before we get started.

Yearly maintenance is usually enough for most homes. Regular maintenance can help prevent buildup, clogs, and pipe damage. If your system receives heavy use or has had previous issues, more frequent service may be necessary.

For small clogs, you can try using a plunger or a basic drain-cleaning tool. Avoid chemical cleaners, as they can damage your pipes over time and often don’t fully clear the blockage.

If the clog doesn’t clear, keeps returning, or affects more than one drain, call a licensed plumber. At Laughlin Electric, we’ll find the cause and fix the issue without the guesswork or risk of damage that can come with DIY fixes.

Servicing your water heater once a year is a good habit. It helps remove sediment, check for wear, and keep everything running efficiently. Regular maintenance also helps extend the unit's life and reduces the chance of unexpected breakdowns.

Start by checking the basics. Make sure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped or, for gas units, that the pilot light is lit. If everything looks normal and you still don’t have hot water, the issue may be with the thermostat, heating element, or gas valve.

These repairs involve electricity, gas, and pressurized systems—all things that should be handled by a licensed plumber. At Laughlin Electric, we can quickly find the problem and get your hot water running again safely.

Replacement costs depend on the type of water heater, its size, and the installation requirements. A standard replacement is usually straightforward, but switching to a tankless system or changing fuel sources can increase the cost. At Laughlin Electric, we’ll review your setup and provide clear, upfront pricing.

Slow drains, foul odors, pooling water near the tank or drain field, and unusually lush grass in one area can all point to a full or failing septic tank. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to have the system inspected right away.

Most septic tanks need to be pumped every 3 to 5 years. The exact timing depends on the size of the tank, how many people are in the home, and how the system is used. Regular pumping helps avoid backups, bad odors, and costly repairs.

With proper care, a septic system can last 20 to 30 years. Regular pumping, mindful water use, and avoiding grease and harsh chemicals in your drains can help extend the system’s lifespan.

Basic smart home setups start at just a couple of hundred dollars, but high-end, fully integrated systems can cost $10,000+. The cost depends on the features you are looking for, if home wiring requires updates, and the brands you are purchasing.

Laughlin Electric offers free estimates to homeowners looking to upgrade to a smart home. Call today for more information.

The time frame ranges from a couple of hours for simple installations to multiple days for an entire home system installation. A thermostat or smart lighting system can be installed in a few hours, while a comprehensive smart home setup involving security, entertainment, and climate control might take several days. The complexity of the installation depends on the number of devices, existing infrastructure, and the level of integration desired.

Many homeowners recommend:

• Security cameras
• Smart lighting
• Smart thermostats
• Smart outlets

These devices are easily integrated into home electrical systems, offer convenience, and improve quality of life, making them a top choice for homeowners.

Many people find smart homes worth the investment. They provide numerous safety features, such as managing security cameras or kitchen appliances, and make it easier for elderly individuals or people with physical limitations to navigate their homes. Smart home additions are highly customizable, allowing every homeowner to get exactly what they need.

Smart homes are usually more efficient and use less electricity overall, but energy savings depend on how you use and manage your smart devices.

Smart homes are often more energy-efficient than traditional homes. Smart devices, such as thermostats, lights, and plugs, are designed to reduce electricity usage. The amount of electricity your smart home uses depends on your behavior and the configuration of your devices. If you use automation to turn off lights, adjust temperatures, or limit unnecessary usage, you can expect to save energy.

As you’re looking for a company, keep these things in mind:

• Your budget
• Customer reviews and reputation
• Smart features you want in your home
• Warranties they offer
• After-sales support
• Compatibility with existing smart devices and platforms

Yes, home EV chargers do need occasional servicing, typically every 1 to 2 years.

This usually includes a full inspection, checking for wear or damage, testing performance, verifying safety features are working properly, and applying any necessary software updates. It’s a simple way to keep your charger safe, efficient, and catch minor issues before they turn into major ones.

Most EV chargers last around 10-15 years, but some may need to be replaced sooner or more often due to:

• Usage Frequency: Chargers used daily or for extended periods may wear out faster than those used occasionally.
• Maintenance History: Regular servicing helps extend the lifespan of your charger. Skipping maintenance can lead to early wear or unnoticed issues.
• Model Quality: Higher-quality chargers from trusted manufacturers often deliver better performance and longer life.
• Installation Location: Outdoor chargers may wear out sooner than those in garages due to exposure to weather and temperature changes.
• Technology Compatibility: As EV technology evolves, older chargers may not support newer vehicle features, software updates, or charging standards.

The cost of EV charger installation depends on the specifics of your home and setup. A few major factors that can influence pricing include:

• Installation location
• Complexity of your charger model
• Layout of your home’s electrical system
• The condition of your existing electrical panel

These are just a few examples; every home is different, and other details may also affect the final cost. For an accurate estimate, contact Laughlin Electric. We’ll provide a personalized consultation and clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees or surprises.

Yes, a home EV charger is a smart investment for most EV owners!

Here are a few reasons why:

1. Convenience: Charge on your schedule. No waiting at public stations, just plug in at night or whenever it’s most convenient for you.
2. Save Money: Home charging is often more cost-effective than public options, especially if you take advantage of off-peak hours under time-of-use utility rates.
3. Increased Property Value: A professionally installed charger can be a strong selling point for future buyers or renters who own EVs.

TV mounting typically ranges from $150 to $600, depending on the complexity and specific details of the job.

Mounting a standard-size TV on drywall with a fixed or tilting mount generally falls within this range.

Mounting over a fireplace, using a full-motion mount, working with brick or stone, or hiding wires inside the wall often lands in this range or higher.

*These are general estimates. Actual pricing can vary based on your home, added features, and a company’s specific rates. For an exact quote on your TV mounting, contact Laughlin Electric Santa Barbara. We’ll be happy to walk you through your options and provide clear, upfront answers and prices.

Yes, especially if safety is a concern. Mounting a TV might seem simple, but doing it incorrectly can lead to damaged walls, unstable mounting, or even injury. This is particularly important when the TV is being mounted high.

Professionals understand proper lifting techniques, secure anchoring, and weight distribution. That means your walls and TV are protected from damage, and everyone involved stays safe.

At Laughlin, we take safety and your investment seriously. We’ll always assess your setup before any work begins, use the proper tools and techniques, and leave your home just as clean as when we arrived.

Yes, you can, but it depends on the complexity of the setup and your confidence with electrical, audio, and structural work.

Simple, all-in-one soundbars or plug-and-play systems are generally DIY-friendly. But if you’re installing in-wall speakers, running wiring through ceilings, mounting equipment, or integrating smart controls, a professional is usually the safer and cleaner choice.

Home theaters are generally a higher-cost project. The total investment depends on the scope of the setup and the level of customization involved:

• Room Size and Layout: Larger or uniquely shaped rooms may require more extensive wiring, outlet placement, or new circuits.
• Equipment Quality and Features: The type of projector or TV, surround sound system, smart controls, and lighting setups can all increase the complexity and cost of the electrical work.
• Additional Contractor Hiring: If your home theater plans include features such as cabinetry, riser seating, or acoustic treatments, these elements typically fall outside of electrical work and may require hiring other specialized contractors.

Yes, a home theater system can be a great investment if it fits your lifestyle and space.

For those who enjoy movies, sports, or gaming, having a dedicated space with high-quality sound, lighting, and visuals offers an immersive experience that’s hard to match with standard setups. It also adds everyday comfort and convenience, giving you a space to enjoy with family and friends.

While it does require a larger upfront investment, many homeowners find the experience, enjoyment, and long-term value well worth it.

The cost of professionally installing a surround sound system depends on the complexity of your setup. Factors like the number of speakers, type of wiring, room layout, equipment integration, and other custom features can all influence the overall cost.

If you’re interested in a surround sound system from Laughlin Electric, contact our team. We’ll take the time to understand your goals and provide a clear, upfront estimate tailored to your space and needs.

Most surround sound systems are fairly efficient and don’t use a significant amount of electricity during normal use. A basic home setup with a receiver and 5 to 7 speakers generally uses about the same amount of power as a small appliance when active, and even less when idle or turned off.

If energy efficiency is important to you, many modern systems come equipped with eco or standby modes that reduce power consumption when not in use. Laughlin can recommend energy-conscious options that suit your needs and install them safely and efficiently.