For most modern homes, you should be able to use the existing circuits when you install a new outlet, often by splicing the wire into the new plug installation. To be sure (and safe), you should always contact an electrician first.
While electrical outlets can technically be installed without the help of a professional electrician, it's highly discouraged. Attempting to install an outlet on your own can lead to potentially serious consequences.
As such, you can DIY electrical switch or outlet replacement on your own as long as the problem is limited to the outlet or receptacle and not stemming from greater issues with your circuits or overall electrical system. These circumstances may require a switch or electrical outlet replacement: Age. Overheating.
An electrical outlet can only be moved by a professional electrician as it requires rewiring of that particular outlet.
A 'non-qualified' person can still carry out notifiable electrical work as long as Building Control are informed – but if you fail to do this and the work is found to be unsafe, it can lead to a hefty fine.
How much does it cost to move an existing outlet? If all you want is to move an existing outlet to another area of your wall, it will likely cost $25 to $300. However, many factors can impact your final cost, including existing wiring, the type of outlet, and more.
Adding or replacing outlets involves working directly with your home's electrical system, which can pose serious risks if not handled properly. So, if you're ready to install an electrical outlet, call a licensed electrician at Go Electric.
Average Hourly Rates
Typically, electricians charge between $50 and $100 per hour. But the first hour might cost more, about $150, due to initial setup and travel. In emergencies, expect to double the rate to $100–$200 per hour.
A GFCI outlet costs between $130 and $300 to install for most homeowners, with an average price of about $210. If you simply want to replace an existing GFCI outlet or upgrade your standard outlet to a GFCI outlet, you might spend as little as $100.
Replacing a socket or converting a single socket into a double are simple jobs. Sockets can be surface or flush mounted.
Typically, electrical outlets will provide between 15-20 years of reliable service before they need to be replaced. This can ultimately vary depending on a number of factors, such as the quality of the outlet, the amount of usage it experiences, and the conditions of the environment it's in.
You can replace GFCI outlets on your own if you have foundational electrical knowledge. If you don't, or you're unsure, it's safer to contact certified electricians to do it for you.
Probably not. At the very least, consider consulting a professional before working on your electrical systems. Electrical work can be dangerous, but improperly installed wiring is an even more significant risk. If you need an outlet replaced or installed, reach out to the electricians of Long View Lighting.
That being said, installing an electrical outlet at home, while it can be done, is nearly always something that you should hire an expert for. Dealing with wiring can be tricky and delicate, and it requires knowledge of how electrical circuits work.
Individuals with electrical knowledge may be able to replace existing outlets with GFCIs, but only when working with three-prong outlets at the end of a circuit. Dealing with older wiring and wires located in the middle of an electrical circuit are situations that should be handled by a professional.
Master electricians can supervise journeymen and apprentices (see next section). They can make $50 per hour designing schematics for electrical systems.
The cost to replace an electrical outlet is $80 to $200 on average, depending on the type. Electricians charge $50 to $130 per hour for labor to change an outlet, while receptacle prices are $1 to $40 for the part alone. Replacing all the outlets in a house costs $1,200 to $2,600.
A general rule of thumb is giving the electrician 10 to 20 percent of the total bill as a tip. Others give between $20 to $50 as a tip; this is also a good tip. However, if the electrician handled a particularly difficult task or went above and beyond, you can give a larger tip.
Electrical permits are required for the installation, reconstruction, replacement, or relocation of electrical equipment and electrical installations associated with other equipment, such as outlets, lighting fixtures, electrical wiring, electrical panels and services, signs and others.
Handymen can replace old, worn-out, or aesthetically outdated switches and outlets. They can also upgrade standard outlets to GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in areas exposed to moisture, or install USB outlets for convenient charging of electronic devices.
This standard install practice is used to designate which outlet is controlled by a wall switch.
While it's possible to DIY moving an outlet if you have prior electrical experience, it's best to hire a licensed electrician to complete this task. Working with electrical wiring can be hazardous to your home and personal safety, risking electrical shock or fire.
Replacing most wall electrical outlets is a fairly simple task, but can be dangerous if you are not careful. Make sure you follow all the safety steps mentioned in our helpful do-it-yourself video. The most important step is to make sure that you turn off the power before attempting to remove the outlet.