Calling a professional electrician for your home and business electrical needs is just smart, given the potential for damage or injury if the job is performed incorrectly. Many people attempt DIY electrical work thinking they can save money, only to have to call in a professional when things don’t work out as planned. However, we do understand that hiring an electrician could seem pricey, depending on the job – so we are here to help you with money-saving tips to employ to keep electrician costs lower.

Sarasota electrical contractor

Here are some insider recommendations to reduce the cost of your home electrical project.

  1. If possible, call during regular hours: If you suspect a problem may be brewing, call an electrician before it becomes an emergency. Scheduling an appointment with a Sarasota electrician will cost you a lot less than requiring an after-hours emergency call. Better yet, schedule a routine safety assessment to identify any potential problems before they arise.
  2. Ask for a fixed quote rather than an hourly rate quote: A fixed-rate quote will allow you to understand the true scope of your investment and will reflect any parts or materials needed for the job. Hourly quotes may appear cheaper on the front end but do not account for any hidden surprises along the way that could bust your budget. An experienced electrician with a well-stocked vehicle can do the work more efficiently, and the fee structure avoids unethical “job-stretching.” If you are more comfortable with an hourly rate, be sure to compare quotes taking into account the reputation, experience, and work quality of those bidding.
  3. Do your legwork: The internet is brimming with intermediaries offering to find you the best electrical contractor in your area. However, many of these sites will charge a commission for their recommendation, and electricians may need to raise their fees to cover the cost of the lead generation. Search for yourself, then research the reputation, reviews, and licensure of any possible professionals. Contacting them directly is one of the most straightforward money-saving tips.
  4. Don’t underestimate the power of a warranty: While many homeowners consider the warranties extra pieces of paperwork shoved into a drawer, understanding these documents can save them a lot of money. A warranty outlines the electrician’s commitment to you and promises to fix any problems arising from faulty workmanship or materials without additional cost. Work offered without a warranty could cost you dearly just a few months later. Reputable electricians will provide their warranty without hesitation – do not hire anyone who cannot give you this peace of mind.
  5. Prepare the home for the work: The more work the electrician has to do to complete your project, the more it will cost you. Homeowners should clear the work area, cover furniture, remove anything from the walls that may hinder progress, and clear a wide path to their electrical panel. In this way, the electrician can do the work he was hired for in a shorter period.
  6. Look around and multi-task: If an electrician comes out to the home, consider tackling several jobs simultaneously. By completing several jobs in the same visit, the electrician spends less time traveling, saving you money. Consider routine inspections, new outlets, or rewiring projects, and significantly reduce your cost.
  7. Ask your electrician about recommended upgrades: When it comes to money-saving tips, few are as impactful as those that will save you money in the long run. Ask your electrician to suggest energy-efficient upgrades such as dimmer switches, motion sensors, or LED lighting that will save you cash monthly.

At Promise Electric, we value our customer relationships above all else. We are committed to professional, quality work at a fair price – and will work with the utmost integrity. That is our promise. If you have a Sarasota electrical project – whether commercial or residential – call us today.