Performing electrical work in your home can be daunting, but also rewarding if you do it right. As a homeowner, you want to ensure any electrical project is done safely and up to code. However, hiring an electrician can get expensive. Thankfully, there are ways I've discovered to save money on home electrical projects without sacrificing quality.
1. Shop Around for Materials
Big box home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe's offer electrical supplies, but their prices are not always the lowest. I've found better deals on materials like wiring, outlet boxes, and breakers by checking prices at local electrical supply houses. Their prices can be 10-20% less than the big retailers, which adds up on larger projects. I also search online stores like Amazon to price compare. Buying in bulk where possible brings prices down too.
2. Consider DIY for Basic Projects
Some basic electrical projects like installing a new light fixture or outlet can be DIYed safely. This avoids electrician markups on labor. I educate myself by reading guides and watching online tutorials to gain the skills needed. I always get the proper permits and have an inspector check any DIY electrical work I do to ensure it's up to code. DIY is not for everyone, but it can yield big savings on simpler projects.
3. Shop Around for Electricians
Don't just go with the first electrician you find for larger projects. I get at least 3 quotes to compare rates. I check electrician reviews online and ask for referrals from friends and family too. More established electricians tend to charge higher rates. Newer independent electricians can offer lower prices, without sacrificing quality. Just be sure to verify they are licensed and insured.
4. Schedule Off-Peak Times
Electrician rates are often based on demand. I aim to schedule projects during slower seasons like winter when electricians are less busy. Off-peak times like weekends and evenings can also yield savings. I also avoid last minute rush jobs when possible, since supply and demand may force higher rates. Planning ahead helps maximize savings.
5. Bundle Multiple Projects
Needing multiple electrical upgrades? I ask electricians for a bundled multi-project discount. Whether it's rewiring a room, adding new outlets, installing recessed lighting, or something else, bundling cuts costs by avoiding multiple service call fees. I make a list of all electrical needs upfront and get quotes for completing all the work. Most electricians offer some break on pricing for bundled projects.
6. Use Your Own Lighting and Materials
To control costs on a lighting project, I supply my own fixtures and bulbs purchased at the best prices I can find. Electrician quotes are typically for labor only, allowing me to select affordable lighting options. I just ensure anything I supply is up to local code. The same goes for outlet boxes, wiring, switches and other parts needed for a project. Supplying your own materials saves significantly versus paying marked up electrician prices.
7. Barter Services
For major electrical work requiring a licensed electrician, I have bargained using barter arrangements. One example is offering to provide a service for an electrician in exchange for discounted work. Maybe you or a family member can offer landscaping, automotive repair, home cleaning, or some other service to barter. Just ensure all details are documented clearly in a written agreement. Bartering allows both parties to benefit from shared expertise.
In closing, homeowners have more electrical project savings options than they may think. Following one or more of these tips can help complete electrical upgrades affordably without skimping on safety. Just be sure to educate yourself and research all options. A little legwork goes a long way toward slashing electrical costs.