Home Generators

Having a generator installed and maintained by Laughlin Electric ensures reliable backup power during outages, keeping your essential systems running smoothly.

A Laughlin Electric home generator electrician.

Laughlin Electric Generator Electrician

It's easy to take our electrical power for granted. That is until a power outage leaves our food spoiling, our apps unable to function and everything from security systems to medical equipment effectively shut down. Anything from a storm to an earthquake can cause power outages that would leave us adrift. Having a generator provides us with backup and Laughlin Electric can handle both installation and repair.

Our generator electricians routinely serve customers throughout Montecito, Goleta, and the surrounding areas.

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Types of Light Switches

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Two popular options are portable generators and whole-house generators. While both serve the purpose of providing electricity during power outages, they differ in terms of capacity, installation, and convenience.

Capacity

Whole-house generators are designed to power the entire home, including all essential appliances and systems. They have a higher wattage capacity and can handle heavy loads. On the other hand, portable generators have a lower wattage capacity and are typically used to power a few select appliances or devices.

Installation

Whole-house generators need to be connected to a home's electrical system and fuel source. This involves securing permits, proper wiring, and potentially installing an automatic transfer switch. Portable generators, by contrast, can be easily transported and set up wherever needed, requiring only a fuel source, and connecting appliances via extension cords.

Convenience

Whole-house generators offer seamless and automatic backup power. When a power outage occurs, they automatically detect the interruption and switch on within seconds, restoring power to the entire house. Portable generators require manual operation—the property owner needs to start the generator, connect appliances, and manage the fuel supply. They also require regular refueling and maintenance.

Ultimately, the choice between a portable generator and a whole-house generator depends on the specific needs and budget of each individual property owner.

With over 30 years of experience, the generator electricians at Laughlin Electric will offer homeowners advice they can trust and work they can count on.

A residential home serviced by our generator electrician.

Signs a Generator Needs a Repair

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Here are some common signs that a generator needs repair:

  • Difficulty starting: If the generator is having trouble starting or requires multiple attempts to start, it may indicate a problem with the ignition system, fuel delivery, or battery.
  • Irregular power output: If the generator is producing inconsistent or fluctuating power, it could be a sign of a faulty voltage regulator, damaged alternator, or issues with the control panel.
  • Fuel leaks: The presence of fuel leaks around the generator is a serious concern and should be addressed immediately, as they present a potential fire hazard.
  • Overheating: If the generator is overheating and shutting down frequently, it may be due to a malfunctioning cooling system, low oil levels, or clogged air filters.
  • Strange noises or vibrations: Unusual noises, such as grinding or knocking sounds, or excessive vibrations can indicate loose or damaged components.

All of these signs are in addition to any warnings that may come from built-in warning lights or error codes. Acting promptly when any sign of damage appears is good for the safety of all on the property, while also helping to catch problems early when repair costs might be kept to a minimum.

We Power Homes; We Empower Homeowners

When our generator electricians come to your home, you can feel confident that you're going to get good advice, reliable diagnostics, and dependable work. But even more than that, you're going to feel like you're talking to a professional who respects you, and who respects your right to really understand what it is we're doing and why. We explain our processes in concise, layman's terms, and we do with professionalism and good cheer.

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Laughlin Electric smart phone app.
Laughlin Electric smart home app

Bring Innovation Home

Imagine a home where everything works seamlessly at your command, from lighting and climate control to security systems and entertainment. We specialize in transforming ordinary homes into smart homes in Central Coast, CA with our advanced high-tech solutions to provide comfort, convenience, security, and increased energy efficiency.