Are Electricians Expensive What do They Charge Per Hour

Are electricians expensive? What do they charge per hour? Well, prices vary depending on a number of factors. usually, electricians charge between $50 to $100 per hour. For the entire project, you'll spend an average of $317, or within a range between $160 and $504 or more. Both hourly and project rates vary depending on the type of project, license and experience of the service provider.

Frustrated by the lack of outlets when your cell phone, laptop or pad starts to die? Want to install a dimmer, fix a light or upgrade your home's security? Old electrical systems often can't keep up. Because smart homes and personal electronics are becoming commonplace, electricians are increasingly in demand to update and modernize the aging home.

Electrician Hourly Rates and Guarantees

Licensed electricians can charge anywhere from $50-$100 an hour depending on experience level, license type and complexity of the job. This does not include additional costs for parts or minimum trip fees. An apprentice electrician could charge less than this for simple jobs.

It's important to note that there are two hourly rates when it comes to most electricians. There is a difference between the rate the electrician gets paid and the rate the electrician will bill. Travel, supplies and overhead are sometimes included in the hourly rate, though some electricians provide a detailed line item bill with hourly rates separate from all other costs. This guide references what a licensed electrician will charge.

Most large companies don't do small jobs like fixing a light. Some electricians will do “side work,” or work without the overhead of an electrical company. In these cases, you may be able to find electricians working at a slightly lower rate than a professional shop charges.

There are a few minor cost factors to consider when hiring a local electrician:

• Distance - Electricians will figure in the cost of travel to and from your home and any supply stores into project and hourly costs.
• Accessibility - Is the project simple, like installing a light fixture, or complex like running a new circuit through finished walls? Complex jobs will increase the time of the project.
• Experience - There are three license grades for electricians - Apprentice, Journeyman and Master. Each increasing grade requires more knowledge, experience and testing which all translates into higher rates. We'll dive into the specifics below.

Most will bid a total cost for the project. Get multiple, detailed bids on the price of parts and labor for each project in your home. Additionally, make sure all expectations are in writing and that you completely understand the terms and conditions of the work. Talk to your contractor about what happens if you aren't satisfied or if unforeseen circumstances cause changes in the bid. Review all warranties and understand everything included in the estimate. Make sure your electrician is licensed and bonded.

The following is an outline of some of the services: 

Generator Services

Installing a generator costs an average of about $3,500 or anywhere between $1,000-$6,000. Having one repaired will only run about $250. Generators for backup power, off-grid living, and recreational vehicles are increasing in popularity. Keeping them running gives piece of mind and security in extreme situations.

Outlet and Switch/Socket Installation

A single outlet, or receptacle, only costs a few dollars. But with the first hour, installing an outlet will cost an average of $200. Installing a switch will cost a little less at $150. These are simple repairs, but since most electricians charge a minimum service call fee, its best to combine it with other work.

Wiring a House

It'll run $6-$8 per foot for the materials alone. Depending on how accessible the wiring routes are, you can easily end up spending an average of $1,200 to install electrical wiring. If the area for new wiring is accessible, like during a remodel when the walls are open, the job will take significantly less time. If walls need demolishing, budget about $1,700 for new drywall and drywall installation. Professional interior wall demolition comes at a cost as well.