Frequently Asked Questions

In San Angelo, the cost of an electrician typically ranges from $75 to $150 per hour, plus materials and service call fees. Total project costs vary based on complexity, such as a simple outlet repair versus a full panel upgrade. L & M Electrical Contractors provides transparent estimates to ensure West Texas homeowners get fair, competitive pricing.

You should upgrade your electrical panel if you experience frequently tripping breakers, flickering lights, or if your panel feels warm to the touch. Older homes in San Angelo with 100-amp service often require an upgrade to 200-amp service to safely handle modern appliances, HVAC systems, and EV chargers.

Yes, L & M Electrical Contractors offers emergency electrical services in San Angelo and surrounding areas. Electrical emergencies, such as burning smells from outlets, sparking panels, or sudden power loss, pose significant fire risks. Our licensed technicians are available to restore safety to your home or business immediately.

For your safety and to ensure compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), you should always hire a licensed electrician for anything beyond changing a lightbulb. DIY electrical work can lead to fires, shocks, or failed building inspections. Professional electricians in Texas are trained to handle high-voltage systems and local San Angelo building permits.

To prepare for a backup generator, a licensed electrician must install a manual or automatic transfer switch and ensure your gas lines or propane tanks are ready. Given the unpredictable West Texas weather and power grid, a professionally installed generator ensures your HVAC and essential medical equipment stay powered during an outage.

Hot outlets or switches are a major red flag for overloaded circuits or loose wiring. This "arcing" creates intense heat that can ignite a house fire. If you notice heat or discoloration on your wall plates, turn off the power at the breaker and contact L & M Electrical for an immediate safety inspection.

Residential electricity typically uses single-phase power (120V/240V) for home appliances, while commercial systems often require three-phase power to support heavy machinery and large-scale HVAC systems. L & M Electrical is licensed for both, handling everything from home ceiling fans to complex industrial wiring in San Angelo.

You can lower your energy costs by installing LED lighting, smart thermostats, and ceiling fans to reduce the load on your AC. Additionally, having an electrician inspect your wiring for "vampire loads" or outdated fixtures can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your San Angelo home.

Yes, per the NEC and local San Angelo building codes, GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are required in "wet" areas, including kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor spaces. These outlets prevent electrocution by instantly cutting power if moisture is detected in the circuit.

Absolutely. We provide full-service electrical design and installation for new residential builds and commercial developments in San Angelo. From the initial underground wiring to the final trim-out and lighting fixtures, we ensure your new project is safe, functional, and up to current Texas electrical codes.