The cost to install a light switch is affordable at an average of around $144. Most homeowners pay between $98 and $193 for the service. Transfer switches can be purchased and installed in a range from $300-$2,400, depending on the model. Adding dimmers averages $100-$200.
If you're thinking about installing new light switches in your home, the first thing you need to do is find a licensed electrician. The same is true of dimmer and transfer styles because properly wiring these products is vital to safety and efficiency. Licensed professionals are well-versed in local codes and laws.
Qualified electricians can make sure that everything is up to code, which means that you'll pass home inspections and rest easy. Though the process seems simple and the expense of hiring an electrical professional could seem unnecessary, even the most basic electrical tasks are complex and dangerous, so it's best to stick with the pros.
On This Page
Since the price of installation will be based so much around an electrician, it is tough to predict how much the project will be. Here are some of the most common factors in the price of installing transfer, light and dimmer styles.
Professional installation of a transfer switch averages $200-$400 because electricians charge $50-$100 per hour, and this is a 3 to 4-hour job. The units themselves are priced in a range from $100-$800 for a manual and $300-$2,000 for an automatic. These price ranges are associated with residential use. Commercial-use units are much more expensive.
Transfer switches are installed near the main breaker of your home and direct power from a portable or standby generator to select appliances. They change the power source from the main panel to the generator and prevent power from reversing into the local utilities. Such a reversal, or back feed, would be hazardous to the electricians working to repair local utilities.
These units are often complicated, so they arent inexpensive to install. If your main electric panel is in your garage, it'll be easier for an electrician to install your power transfer system. If it is in the basement, then they will need to either run a cord through a window or install a power inlet box outside of your home near the panel. This would increase the labor time and price.
Manual transfer units average $100-$500 and will be $200-$300 to have installed, for a total of $300-$800. These units are the less complicated style of the two, making them faster to hook up and keeping labor costs low. To use this type, the homeowner must manually switch the unit on in the event of a power outage. Though this may sound inconvenient, manual styles are very common in residences. Many homeowners can manage a few minutes of an outage and navigate their panels with ease. It is most convenient to use these types with portable generators, which are less expensive than standby styles.
Automatic units are often more expensive, running from $300-$2,000, and installation will be closer to the $300-$400 range. There are commercial-grade ATS types that cost up to $7,000. Amps and voltage, phase, and enclosure type factor into the broad range in price. For example, most households use a single-phase unit which costs much less than a three-phase, commercial unit. Three-phase units are meant to power large energy consumption.
ATS units are more expensive because they are complicated and work independently of the homeowner. This backup power system is convenient, permanent and reliable. ATS units are triggered by a power outage and transfer power without manual assistance. They are commonly used with standby generators.
They can be very useful in homes where:
- Power outages are common
- Medical machines need to be run without interruption
- Residents have disabilities which would be disadvantaged by outage
- Homeowners work and need uninterrupted power
- Numerous appliances depend on power
Hire a pro to install your transfer switch
Light Switches
Light switches of various types average $5-$15 each and $100-$200 to install. It is a quick process, though you will still benefit from professional installation. Improper wiring or placement could lead to failed inspections and could end up costing you in replacement work. The hourly rate for an electrician is $50-$100 and homeowners can make the most of that rate by bundling other electrical jobs with the work.Installation Costs
Expect a flat initial rate, labor, materials and supplies. Electricians typically bundle the cost of parts and supplies into either a flat rate or your estimate. The flat rate of $70-$100 covers the basic expenses of a service call. Then you have labor, which adds $50-$100 an hour. On top of that, the switch itself may only be $5, but supplies like mounting hardware and fittings add $5-$10 more. Some companies will allow homeowners to provide their own materials, but the cost of those materials will not vary greatly.The greatest variable will be labor. Certain types take more time to wire and fit, such as with a double pole style. Basic switches wont take as much time and will cost less overall. See below for the benefits of bundling services.
When a switch malfunctions or is out-of-date, replacing it can be a simple and only cost $50-$150. Fixes or upgrades to other styles will carry that rate upward, both in price of materials and labor fees. Double pole styles, for example, have more detailed wiring and will demand more time and work. The same goes for dimmers. These styles can cost closer to $200 to replace. The price will be similar if a single pole type is being upgraded to another style, such as dimmer or double pole.
Relocating will average $100-$150 and is dependent on a number of factors. If the electrician needs to cut into the wall or do any repair to the drywall afterwards, the overall expense will go up. Material costs will be the smallest factor in the final price. Some homeowners move these units for added convenience and adapt to a new layout in their home. Others do so during a remodel, especially if they are removing or adding a new wall.
The cost to install a 3 or 4-way switch is different than the cost to install a standard one. The more complicated the style you pick, the more expensive the labor and material will be. The total charge will average $100-$200 per switch.
- Single Pole - $1-$15 each; The most simple and easy-to-install style. Controls one electrical fixture.
- Double Pole - $10-$20 each; Involves the control of two fixtures from one location, featuring two toggles or rockers per unit.
- 3 Way - $3-$15 each; Powers one fixture at two locations and has a more involved installation process.
- 4 Way - $10-$25 each; Operates one fixture from three locations.
- Dimmer $10-$25 each; Lets the user adjust brightness to fit their needs and can be found in single, 3-way and even smart styles.
- Smart Light Switches - $45-$150 each; Allows homeowner to program and control switch to their schedule and needs. The unit can be managed via smart device. Can be installed in place of a switch. There are also plug adapters that simply plug into outlets.
Hire an Electrician for Your Light Switch Installation
Dimmers average $10-$25 each, though there are styles that cost up to $50. Installing new or upgrading to this type will range from $100-$200. With these, light can be adjusted to soft or bright according to the needs of the homeowner.
This upgrade shouldnt involve much adjustment to the wiring or placement of the switch. However, there are a few things to be aware of:
- Wiring Code - This may be a good opportunity to bring the wiring up to code. The electrician may recommend doing so if it seems necessary.
- Box Size - A professional may recommend a larger box size to accommodate new safety standards. This box houses the essential wiring. Electrical panel upgrades cost between $500 and $1,700.
- Buying Dimmers - Its important to buy the right type for the need. For fixtures that are controlled at two locations, you will need to replace with a three-way dimmer. For single pole designs, you only need a single pole dimmer.
- Bulb Compatibility - Not all bulbs will work with dimmers. LED bulbs, for example, must be the dimmable kind in order to function properly with them. Some fluorescent bulbs are either incompatible or require a special brand or type of dimmer.
It is true that the installation process is relatively simple but a small mistake with one of these factors could lead to expensive problems. It is not recommended to do this work on your own, unless you have extensive electrical knowledge and experience.
Consult with an electrician today
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Certified electricians keep up with local codes and the latest technology in the industry. They can help you to maximize on your upgrade or your installation. There are plenty of DIY guides out there for performing this work, but every situation is different, and an expert may catch something that the guides didnt mention. For example, your wiring may be old and need an upgrade to meet safety codes. This is particularly difficult to diagnose if you dont have electrical experience. Research and reach out to trusted local electricians for a faster, safer and more efficient install.Most electricians work on an hourly rate of $50-$100, on top of a flat fee of $70-$100. Considering this, it's smart to bundle as many electrical jobs as you have into one trip. If you're changing all of your light switches out for dimmers or to decorative kinds, it would be smart to do all of them at once. Popular bundles include the installation of 6 basic types for $100-$200 and that of 5 dimmers for $150-$250. The best way to find out how you can combine services like this is to contact reputable electricians in your area. Find out what their basic service fee is and how much you could save by bundling.
Make sure to pick a licensed electrician. Research and talk to at least three pros before deciding on one. Once you find a good option, consider getting all of your electrical work done at once to save money in the long run.
Was this page helpful?
Was this page helpful?
Thank you for submitting your feedback.
Share your cost experience
Help others plan and budget for their projects
 |
FOR 2 LIGHT TO BE INSTALLED AND HAVE 2OLD LIGHTS REMOVED,SHOULD BE 50BUCKS
|
