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Best 5 Electricians in Santa Cruz, CA

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Written By Jessica Hurtault|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Finding a reliable electrician is crucial when your Santa Cruz home has an electrical problem. Attempting electrical work on your own can be dangerous. Whether you're experiencing an emergency or need a minor repair, we’ve done the research to find the best electricians in Santa Cruz.

5 Best Electricians in Santa Cruz

Direct Electric Logo

Direct Electric

4.6/5
Based on 17 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel Upgrade And Circuit BreakerElectrical RepairGenerator Installation

Highlights

  • Free quote
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Accessible customer support team
7960 B Soquel Dr #356, Aptos, CA 831-425-1407 directelectric.biz
Alpha Omega Electric Logo

Alpha Omega Electric

4.6/5
Based on 79 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Electrical RepairOutlet InstallationPanel Upgrade And Circuit BreakerElectrical InspectionPool And Hot Tub ElectricalElectrical RewiringConstructionEnergy EfficiencyExterior Lighting And Security

Highlights

  • Prompt service delivery
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Accessible customer support team
2257 Juan Pablo Ln, Santa Cruz, CA 831-346-3001 alphaomegaelectric.org
Fisher Electric Logo

Fisher Electric

4.5/5
Based on 70 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Ev Charging InstallationEmergency ServiceGenerator InstallationSolar Panel InstallationElectrical RepairSmoke Alarm Installation

Highlights

  • Informative resources
  • Accessible customer support team
  • Clear pricing policy
35 Buttermilk Ln, Scotts Valley, CA 831-345-7463 fisherelectricinc.com
Drummond Electric Inc Logo

Drummond Electric

4.7/5
Based on 46 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Electrical RepairAppliance RepairGenerator InstallationEv Charging InstallationElectrical RewiringSurge ProtectionElectrical InspectionPanel Upgrade And Circuit BreakerExterior Lighting And SecurityConstructionPool And Hot Tub Electrical

Highlights

  • Informative resources
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Accessible customer support team
1027 Redmond Ave, San Jose, CA 408-661-0219 drummondelectric.com

More Local Electrical Companies

Willow Glen Electric

User Reviews: 5/5 

3751 Charter Park Ct #D
San Jose, CA 95136

IBEW 234

User Reviews: 4.3/5 

10300 Merritt St
Castroville, CA 95012

A1 Electricians San Jose

User Reviews: 4.4/5 

1070 Foxchase Dr
San Jose, CA 95123

Mirkovic Electric

User Reviews: 4.7/5 

5229 Englewood Dr
San Jose, CA 95129

First Choice Electricians

User Reviews: 4.7/5 

5210 Monterey Hwy
San Jose, CA 95136

JJ Electric

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

1464 Pompey Dr
San Jose, CA 95128

Campbell Electrician

User Reviews: 4.3/5 

711 W Hamilton Ave
Campbell, CA 95008

JMC Electrical Services

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

1713 Little Orchard St
San Jose, CA 95125

Watson's Charging Stations & Electric

User Reviews: 4.7/5 

7500 Monterey Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

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Facts about Santa Cruz
Est. Hourly Cost for Electrician:$55
Average Energy Cost:$0.24/kWh
Electricity Companies:Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
Median Home Size:1775 sqft
Homeownership Rate:60%
Popular Energy Source:NaturalGas

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Types of Services Offered by Electricians

Electricians have services to take care of most electrical problems from minor glitches to major rewiring. The following are some of the home services they provide.

Electrical System Installation

Most electricians offer electrical system installation, which is a multifaceted process that involves careful planning, wiring, and joining various components. First, the contractor evaluates your home's power needs. Then they will plan out the wiring and choose the proper cables, conduits, and light fixtures to meet regulations. The final steps are connecting the main panel, distributing circuits to the outlets and fixtures, grounding the system, and installing protective devices, such as circuit breakers.

Repairs

Electrical repairs shouldn't be brushed aside. You should address malfunctioning fixtures, faulty wiring, or power outages promptly to avoid injury or electrical fires. Skilled electricians have experience troubleshooting complex electrical systems and restoring functionality.

Whole-House Rewiring and Panel Upgrades

Whole-home electrical rewiring and panel upgrades involves updating old or faulty wiring and panels in your entire house. This is typically necessary for aging homes with systems that may present potential hazards or don't adequately meet modern electrical regulations. Electricians survey the existing wiring to find hazards, then they take out old wiring and update the system with outlets, fixtures, panels, and switches that adhere to existing codes and safety regulations.

Surge Protection

Setting up professional surge protection ensures your electrical system and valuable devices are protected from damage brought on by power surges. After evaluating your system requirements, electricians will put in surge protection devices that divert surplus energy away from sensitive equipment during voltage spikes or surges. Strategically installing surge protection devices at your main panel or individual outlets safeguards your electronics from surges, which reduces the chance of costly damage.

Emergency Electrical Services

Emergency electrical services are available 24/7 and provide essential support when unexpected failures, hazards, or disruptions happen to provide prompt help in safely restoring power. Electricians tackle electrical emergencies such as power losses, electrical fires, weather destruction, and defective or dangerous wiring safely.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Electrician in Santa Cruz

The following are a few important factors to consider when choosing an electrician in Santa Cruz.

  • Cost: Although cost is an important factor, it shouldn't be the only consideration. Look for an electrician who offers fair and transparent pricing and provides a detailed estimate before starting the project.
  • References: Ask the electrician for references, so you can ask past clients about their experience with the electrician.
  • Reputation and reviews: Check sites such as the Better Business Bureau and Google Reviews to learn about the electrician's customer service. Find a licensed electrician with a reputation for quality work and good customer service.
  • Safety measures: Your electrician should comply with proper safety precautions to prevent accidents and injuries. Inquire about their safety measures, such as wearing the proper gear.
  • Qualifications: Look for a qualified electrician who's licensed, bonded, and insured. The California Contractors State License Board regulates licensing for electricians. Go to their website to learn more about the requirements.

How Much Does an Electrician Cost?

The cost of an electrical technician varies depending on several factors, including your location, the specific services required, the project’s complexity, and the electrician’s experience and qualifications. Electricians may charge a fixed price or an hourly rate. Most electricians charge $37–$56 an hour in Santa Cruz, which adds up to $140–$280 for most small to medium tasks. Discuss the project in detail with the electrician for the most accurate price.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical in Santa Cruz

What should I do in case of an electrical emergency?

In case of an electrical emergency, put safety first. The first thing you should do is turn off the power supply to the affected area if possible. Then, get in touch with a professional electrician to evaluate the situation and repair the problem.

How often should I have my electrical system inspected?

We recommend having your electrical system inspected by a professional electrician once every 3 to 5 years. Get an inspection sooner if you see signs of electrical issues, such as tripping breakers, flickering lights, or frequent power surges.

What causes circuit breakers to trip repeatedly?

Frequent tripping of circuit breakers is usually caused by plugging in too many devices or appliances. It can also result from outdated wiring that can’t handle modern power demands, shorts in the electrical system, or loose wiring connections. If breakers trip repeatedly, you may need to call an electrician for an inspection.

How can I reduce the risk of electrical fires in my home?

Reduce the risk of electrical fires by having licensed electricians routinely inspect your home's wiring, fixing problems promptly, and installing quality surge protectors. Also ensure circuits aren't overloaded, electrical appliances and tools are UL certified, and all electrical work meets local building codes. Taking these fire safety precautions can reduce electrical risks.

Can electricians help with energy-efficient upgrades?

We recommend talking to an electrician to get help with energy-efficient improvements. An electrician can install beneficial upgrades, such as programmable thermostats, smart-home devices, and energy-saving electrical systems.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

Other Electrician Resources

How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade an Electrical Panel?

How Much Does an Electrician Cost?

Sources

CDC Wonder

U.S. Census

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics