The cost of an electrician is around $28 to $45 per hour.
However, this is only a general assessment. Some may charge as low as $20 per hour, while others over $60.
Factors that Influence the Cost
One of these is experience. The more experience an electrician has, the more he or she will likely charge you. New ones or those under apprentice will charge much lower fees.
In some states, the question of whether the electrician is a union member may affect their rate. In others, it may not.
Of course, if you know the person well or you call him or her regularly, you might get discounts.
The self-employed ones will also charge different amounts.
Looking for an Electrician
Here are a few things to keep in mind when assessing the cost of an electrician. The first is that you get what you pay for.
While experienced ones fetch a higher price, the quality of their work is mostly assured.
This doesn’t mean that pricy ones are always reliable or that those that charge low always produce poor results.
However, getting quality service usually comes at a price.
The Amount of Work to be Done
Another element that will affect your expenses will be the type of work that must be done. If you want to install a 120v outlet, the average charge will be $80 to $270.
If you want the GFCI outlets, the costs will commence at $60 up to $130 or more. These are used in kitchens and the washing room. If you have to put several, the fees will go up.
The cost of an electrician will also go up if a 240v circuit is added. Putting this up on the central panel will cost at least $400. More likely it will reach $800.
A typical outlet costs about $3. If you want the hardware child-proof, the price will double ($6).
If you want to add a steel or wood cover, prepare to add $40. However, the cost per outlet will be reduced if you’re replacing or modifying the electric panel itself.
It will probably cost $1,000 to overhaul the electric panel and bring it to 100 amp levels.
A brand-new one might cost somewhere between $1,500 to $2,800. For 200 amps, you’ll have to pay around $3,000, and $4,000 for 400 amps.
Do it Yourself
The high and at times confusing cost of an electrician is leading some to consider the do-it-yourself option. This can be quite dangerous though.
If you only need to replace one outlet, it is a simple enough task. But if you must revamp the electrical panel or rewire the house, it’s better to get an electrician to do it.
Get in touch with an electrical contractor who will help you get the job done right. To get an estimate, inform the contractor of all the tasks.
Call a few to get other prices. When upgrading these panels, you should contact the planning authorities. Seek clarification regarding permits or other necessities.
Always remember that safety is the highest priority. Even if the cost of an electrician is steep, the cost will be greater if an accident occurs due to poor wiring.