How Much Will You Pay to Replace the Electrical Wiring in Your Old Home?

13 September 2019
 Categories: , Blog

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Replacing old electrical wiring in your home can enhance the efficiency of your electrical fixtures, improve safety and reduce energy costs. Old wiring is inefficient and causes bulbs to blow and circuit breakers to trip often. If the wires are exposed, they can cause electrical fires or electrocution.

As you consider rewiring your home, one of the major factors to consider is the cost. According to Oneflare, the cost of hiring an electrician is between $130 to $270 per hour, excluding material costs and other expenses. Thus, there isn't a fixed cost. However, the following are the key factors that determine how much you will pay.

The Size of Your Home

The square footage of your home is the most significant factor in determining the cost of rewiring. It dictates the amount of wiring needed, the capacity of the switchboard, the number of electrical fixtures and much more. Thus, the bigger your home is, the more you will pay for the installation.

You can cut down on material and labour costs and keep the budget low. For example, a good electrician can get materials at a lower price from their supplier. Also, if you plan the project and avoid downtime, you can save on hourly labour costs.

The Quality of New Wiring Materials

Another critical factor determining the cost of electrical rewiring is the quality of materials. Today, there are various kinds of electrical fixtures, both low- and high-end. Some are energy-efficient, while others are not. High-quality materials will cost more than low-quality ones. Also, if you want the latest technology fixtures and device upgrades, you will have to pay more for the project.

However, you can't afford to skimp on quality. Electrical wiring is not something you often do. Thus, you should invest in materials that will last for decades. You can get quotes from different suppliers and order from one with the best prices for quality materials.

The Rewiring Method 

The rewiring method used can complicate or simplify the project. It will determine whether the workers will work for ten or twenty days. One popular technique is removing the drywall to access the old wires and install new ones. This method is time-consuming and expensive in the long run.

On the other hand, instead of tearing down the drywall, your electrician can make small holes at intervals and fish out the old wires. They can also run the new cables through the crawl spaces. This method is inexpensive, faster and less invasive.

There you have it! These are the main factors determining the cost of rewiring your old home. However, contact an electrician so they can examine your wiring needs and provide an accurate estimate.