How much does it cost to install or replace a GFCI outlet?
How much does it cost to install or replace a GFCI outlet?
$90 – $200 cost to replace an existing GFCI outlet
$150 – $350 cost to install a new GFCI outlet
$12 – $40 GFCI outlet unit price (materials only)
Cost to install a GFCI outlet
New GFCI outlet installation costs $150 to $350 on average. The cost to replace a GFCI outlet is $90 to $200, including labor and materials to replace a standard 120V outlet with a GFCI model. GFCI outlet prices are $12 to $40+ for the unit alone.
| Project | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Replace existing outlet with GFCI outlet | $90 – $200 |
| Install new GFCI outlet | $150 – $350 |
Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
GFCI outlets prevent fatal electrical shocks by monitoring the electrical current and immediately cutting power to the outlet upon sensing an imbalance or a short. GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter.
Labor makes up 70% to 80% of the total cost to install or replace a GFCI outlet.
Cost to replace a GFCI outlet
Replacing a GFCI outlet costs $90 to $200 on average, including labor and materials. Outlet replacement is a quick and simple job, but most electricians charge a $100+ minimum project fee. Replacing multiple outlets in the same visit is the most cost-effective approach.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| New outlet & supplies | $12 – $40 |
| Installation labor | $50 to $130 per hour |
| Wiring repair or replacement | $7 to $10 per linear foot |
The following factors affect the cost of GFCI outlet replacement:
Labor – Labor makes up 70% to 80% of the total project cost. Labor costs increase for difficult-to-access locations or if the electrician must run new wiring from the main electrical panel to the outlet's location.
Number of outlets – Costs per outlet are lower when installing or replacing multiple outlets at the same time. However, a GFCI outlet also protects any other outlets "downstream" receiving power from it, allowing homeowners to reduce costs by installing GFCI units on only the first outlet on each circuit.
Permits – Electrical permits cost $50 to $350. Most areas require a permit to install a new outlet or run new wiring but not to replace an existing outlet.
Electrician labor cost to replace a GFCI outlet
Electricians charge $50 to $130 per hour for labor to replace a GFCI outlet. Replacing a standard 120V outlet with a GFCI outlet takes only 10 to 15 minutes, but most electricians charge a one-hour minimum rate plus a $100 to $200 trip fee.
GFCI receptacle wiring repair costs {#wire|
Installing a new GFCI receptacle requires running new wiring to the outlet's location. The electrician may need to open the walls to run new wiring, depending on the home's wiring conditions. The new outlet may also require a new circuit or an electrical panel upgrade.
Rewiring – Basic electrical rewiring costs $7 to $10 per linear foot.
Drywall repair – Drywall repairs cost $50 to $100 per square foot to patch small holes.
Electrical panel upgrade – Upgrading the electrical panel costs $1,300 to $2,500 for a 200-amp panel or $2,500 to $4,000 for a 400-amp panel. Replacing or upgrading may be required if the panel does not have the capacity to support the new outlet.
Dedicated circuit – A dedicated circuit costs $250 to $900 and includes a new outlet. Circuit installation costs depend on the distance from the main panel, installation difficulty, and circuit breaker type.
Installing a GFCI circuit in the main electrical panel protects every outlet on that circuit, including standard non-GFCI outlets.
Outdoor GFCI outlet cost
An outdoor GFCI outlet costs $180 to $350 installed or $15 to $30 for the unit alone. Per the National Electrical Code (NEC), all outdoor outlets must be weather-resistant GFCI models with a watertight or weatherproof cover.
GFCI outlet cost by type & features
GFCI outlet prices are $12 to $40 on average for the unit alone, depending on the amperage, style, color, and features. Smart GFCI outlets featuring USB ports cost $20 to $50+.
| GFCI outlet type | Average unit cost* |
|---|---|
| 15-amp outlet | $12 – $30 |
| 20-amp outlet | $16 – $40 |
| Outdoor outlet | $15 – $30 |
| Outlet with night light | $15 – $30 |
| Outlet with light switch | $35 – $40 |
| Smart / USB outlet | $20 – $50 |
*Not including installation.
DIY cost to install an outlet yourself
DIY outlet replacement costs $12 to $40 for the GFCI outlet itself plus $50 to $100 for tools and supplies needed for the project.
Replacing an existing outlet is a simple project for most homeowners. However, electrical work is dangerous and requires strict adherence to the National Electric Code (NEC). Hiring a licensed electrician is the safest option for homeowners without previous wiring or electrical experience.
| Supplies | Average cost |
|---|---|
| GFCI outlet | $12 – $40 |
| Voltage tester | $20 – $30 |
| Screwdriver | $10 – $20 |
| Flashlight | $10 – $20 |
| Wire stripper | $5 – $20 |
| Wire nuts | $5 – $10 |
GFCI outlet FAQs
Where are GFCI outlets required?
GFCI outlets are required in wet locations, including:
Bathrooms
Kitchens along countertops
Laundry/utility rooms, within 6 feet of the outer edge of the sink
Garages
Outdoor areas
Spa and pool areas
Accessory buildings not used as a living space
Wet bars
Crawlspaces
Unfinished basements
Boathouses
Can I replace a normal outlet with a GFCI?
Yes, you can replace a normal outlet with a GFCI outlet. Replacing a standard outlet with a GFCI outlet adds circuit protection to prevent fatal electrical shocks caused by faulty appliances or an imbalance in the current.
Upgrading an ungrounded two-prong outlet with a new GFCI outlet improves safety and reduces the chance of electrical shock without requiring the outlet to be grounded. Grounding an outlet costs $100 to $300.
How long does it take to install a GFCI outlet?
Installing a GFCI outlet takes 10 to 15 minutes if replacing an existing standard outlet. Wiring an outlet in a new location takes 30 minutes to 3 hours on average, depending on the location, wiring conditions, and distance from the main electrical panel or nearest junction box.
Do GFCI outlets go bad?
GFCI outlets last 7 to 15 years on average before they go bad, depending on usage. Look for these signs a GFCI outlet needs replacing:
The outlet does not provide power.
Pressing the "Test" button doesn't trip the outlet.
Pressing the "Reset" button does not reset the outlet.
Getting estimates from electrical outlet installation services
Before hiring an electrical outlet installer to install a GFCI outlet, be sure to:
Get three in-person estimates to compare.
Browse their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Hire a licensed, bonded, and insured company that has been established for 5+ years.
Avoid hiring the company with the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Get a detailed contract and warranty in writing before the work begins.
Never pay in full before the project is complete. Work out a payment plan instead.
Questions to ask
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Can you provide local references with contact information?
Do I need a dedicated circuit for the GFCI outlet?
Do you handle the permits and inspection process?
Are all permit fees included in the estimate?
What additional costs might come up during installation?
How long will the installation take?
Do you offer a warranty? If yes, what does it cover?