What is the cost for installing a light fixture?

There are more brands and types of lighting fixtures than we can count but installing them generally involves the same steps. First is the cost of the actual fixture and this can vary wildly depending on your taste and your budget. Discount fixtures can be as inexpensive as $10, more expensive ones easily running into the hundreds or thousands of dollars but the limit is really just what you are willing to spend. The installation itself depends on the existing service and what you need to secure the new fixture and supply it with electricity. In particular, flush mount or globe lights will usually need an upgrade is a standard light was in place before. The cost of these parts is relatively modest – under $25 – and labor will cost between $75 and $150. On the other hand, installation to a spot where a light has never been installed before means running an new line and could potentially cost as much as $500.

How else can I save on my monthly electric bill?

The average homeowner does not realize that most modern devices such as televisions, computers and other “smart” devices continue to draw power and use electricity even when they are turned off. So, in addition to doing the usual things like turning off unused lighting and keeping the thermostat set at a reasonable level, a homeowner should also unplug appliances that are not in use. Upgrading to a tankless hot water system that delivers on demand can also save money in the long run. From a non-electrical perspective, a homeowner should also ensure that their windows as well as doors are properly sealed and that the insulation in the attic and walls is sufficient.

Why should a homeowner upgrade to energy efficient lighting?

Electricity costs money and it is not getting any cheaper. For this reason alone, upgrading to energy efficient lighting – light emitting diodes (LEDs) or compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) – makes good economic sense. Upgrading in this manner will immediately save you money on your monthly utility bill and may will eventually pay for the upgrade in the long term. In addition, having an energy efficient home is good for the environment as most electricity is still produced with non-renewable resources. In short, the use of energy efficient lighting in your home is a win-win situation for both you and the environment.

How much does it cost to wire a garage or shed?

As mentioned previously, the nature and scope of the electrical work will have a major bearing on how much it will cost to wire a garage or shed. For example, if the structure is detached from the main house, a main line will have to be run to the shed or garage before any interior wiring can be completed thus increasing the costs. Similarly, the number and type of outlets, switches, lights and appliances that are installed will also affect the price for better or worse. Generally, a small shed with nearby existing service will cost around $900 while a larger garage that needs to have a service “pulled’ to it and then to the home can cost as much as $4,000 to complete.

How much will it cost to upgrade my electrical service?

When electricity was first introduced on a widespread scale in the United States over a century ago, no one – not even Thomas Edison! – really anticipated how integral it would become to modern life. That century has seen a lot of technological innovation
that continues to this day. Older systems often become obsolete within a generation. For this reason, many older homes need to have their electrical systems upgraded even if they seems to be working properly. Depending on the changes needed – new circuits, grounding systems etc – upgrading can cost anywhere from a relatively modest $950 to as much as $3850.

Why do I need Arc Fault protection as well?

Water is not the only think that presents a danger to the electrical lines in a home. Aging appliances and wiring can also cause a problem known as “arcing.” This phenomenon can cause overheated wires or actual electrical discharges and lead to the start of a fire. Normal arcing is common in electrical circuits such as when a switch is thrown or an appliance is started. An Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) selectively monitors the current flow and can discriminate between this normal arcing and unwanted, erratic arcing conditions that can cause a fire.

What is GFI protection and why do I need it?

As most adults understand, water and electrical circuits do not mix but children may not realize the danger. A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is designed to overcome this problem by “tripping” and cutting off the flow current if someone inadvertently completes the circuit while standing in water. GFCIs work by comparing the input current on the “hot” side to the output current on the neutral side. If there is even a slight difference at all – a few milliamps is all it takes – the device will shut off the flow of electricity. It works automatically and is can truly be a life saver.

What factors are used to determine your pricing for a particular project?

Naturally, our estimates take into account the nature and the scope of the work but we also ensure that all permits are pulled properly and all our electricians are insured and WCB qualified. These last two factors add a slight additional fee to the final cost but they guarantee that the homeowner will get a long-lasting, quality job with no fear of liability if someone is injured on the job. For your own protection – both personally and financially – it is essential to only use a contractor who meets both of these qualifications.

What is a Master Electrician?

A professional that has at least 7 years of experience as an Electrician and 3 years as a qualified Journeyman. Master Electricians are the only ones that can pull permits with a municipality and are insured. This gives a level of accountability and peace of mind to the consumer knowing they are dealing with an experienced and qualified professional, rather than a fly by night operation or someone that does not fully know and understand all the intricacies of electrical work.

What can I do if I have a property that has Knob and Tube wiring?

Replacing this very old electrical system with safe and up to code wiring is a priority.  A lot of insurance companies will not cover properties with this wiring due to the fire hazards.

Here is a video explaining this wiring:  Knob and Tube