When something electrical goes wrong in your home, it’s never convenient. A tripping breaker, flickering lights, dead outlets, or sudden power loss can quickly turn into a safety concern. One of the first questions most homeowners ask is simple:
“How much is this going to cost?”
At Estevez Electric LLC, we believe in honest communication—even when pricing varies from job to job. While every home and situation is different, this guide provides realistic average cost ranges for common electrical services in the Allentown, PA area, so you can plan ahead and make informed decisions.
Let’s break it down.
Why Electrical Pricing Varies
Before diving into numbers, it helps to understand why electrical work doesn’t come with one flat price.
Several factors affect cost:
- Age and condition of your home’s wiring
- Accessibility of panels and outlets
- Permit and inspection requirements
- Emergency or after-hours service
- Size and scope of the project
- Parts and material quality
A simple fix in a newer home may take 30 minutes. The same issue in a 1950s house may require hours of rewiring. That’s why professional electricians evaluate each job individually.
Circuit Breaker Replacement & Panel Repairs (Most Requested Service)
Circuit breaker issues are one of the most common reasons homeowners call an electrician. Breakers protect your home from overloads and electrical fires. When they fail, the risk increases fast.
Average Cost in Allentown, PA
Single Circuit Breaker Replacement:
$150 – $350
Multiple Breaker Replacement:
$300 – $700+
Main Panel Repairs:
$400 – $1,200+
Full Electrical Panel Replacement:
$1,800 – $4,000+
What Affects Pricing?
- Panel brand and age
- Number of breakers
- Signs of corrosion or overheating
- Required upgrades to meet code
- Permit costs
If your breakers trip frequently, feel warm to the touch, or smell burnt, it’s time to call a professional. Ignoring these signs can lead to serious damage—or worse, fire hazards.
Electrical Rewiring Services (Safety-Focused Investment)
Older homes in the Allentown area often contain outdated wiring that no longer meets modern electrical demands. Aluminum wiring, knob-and-tube systems, or deteriorating insulation can create serious risks.
Average Cost in Allentown, PA
Partial Rewiring (Single Room or Section):
$500 – $2,000
Whole-Home Rewiring:
$4,000 – $12,000+
What Impacts Cost?
- Square footage
- Wall and ceiling access
- Number of outlets and switches
- Drywall repair needs
- Inspection requirements
Rewiring is one of the best long-term investments you can make for safety, efficiency, and resale value.
Emergency Electrical Services (24/7 Response When It Matters Most)
Electrical emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Power outages, burning smells, sparking outlets, or panel failures need immediate attention.
Average Cost in Allentown, PA
Emergency Service Call:
$200 – $400+
Emergency Repairs:
$300 – $1,500+
Common Emergency Situations
- Total power loss
- Smoking outlets or panels
- Tripped main breakers
- Storm-related damage
- Exposed wiring
- Electrical fires (after safety clearance)
Emergency pricing reflects after-hours availability, rapid response, and safety precautions. The goal isn’t convenience—it’s preventing property damage and protecting your family.
Outlet, Switch, and GFCI Installation
Outlets and switches may seem minor, but improper installation can cause shocks, shorts, and fire risks.
Average Cost in Allentown, PA
Standard Outlet or Switch Replacement:
$100 – $250
GFCI Outlet Installation:
$150 – $300
Multiple Outlet Upgrades:
$300 – $800+
GFCI outlets are required in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, garages, and outdoor areas. They protect against electric shock and are often required during home inspections.
Lighting Installation & Upgrades
Lighting improves safety, energy efficiency, and home value. Many homeowners upgrade to LED fixtures or add landscape lighting.
Average Cost in Allentown, PA
Ceiling Fan Installation:
$150 – $350
Chandelier Installation:
$200 – $600+
LED Lighting Upgrades:
$300 – $1,500+
Landscape Lighting:
$1,000 – $3,000+
Costs depend on ceiling height, wiring access, fixture weight, and electrical modifications.
Generator & Surge Protection Installation
With increasing storms and power outages, backup power and surge protection are becoming more popular.
Average Cost in Allentown, PA
Whole-Home Surge Protector:
$300 – $700
Portable Generator Setup:
$500 – $1,500
Standby Generator Installation:
$4,000 – $10,000+
These systems protect appliances, electronics, and critical home systems during outages and voltage spikes.
Commercial Electrical Services
For business owners, electrical reliability is essential. Downtime costs money.
Average Cost in Allentown, PA
Commercial Service Calls:
$150 – $300+
Panel Upgrades:
$2,000 – $6,000+
Lighting Retrofits:
$1,500 – $5,000+
Equipment Wiring:
$500 – $3,000+
Commercial pricing depends heavily on building size, equipment load, and code requirements.
How to Get the Most Accurate Electrical Estimate
Online averages are helpful—but nothing replaces an on-site evaluation.
To get the best estimate:
- Describe the issue clearly
- Share photos if possible
- Ask about permits and inspections
- Request written estimates
- Choose licensed, insured professionals
At Estevez Electric LLC, every quote is based on real conditions, not guesswork.
Is Cheap Electrical Work Worth the Risk?
Short answer: No.
Unlicensed or “handyman” electrical work often leads to:
- Failed inspections
- Insurance issues
- Fire hazards
- Repeat repairs
- Higher long-term costs
Professional electrical work protects your home, your investment, and your family.
Why Allentown Homeowners Trust Estevez Electric LLC
Local experience matters. Electrical codes, housing styles, and inspection requirements vary by region.
When you work with Estevez Electric LLC, you get:
- Licensed and insured service
- Transparent pricing
- Safety-first workmanship
- Emergency availability
- Code-compliant installations
- Local knowledge
Whether you need breaker replacement, rewiring, or urgent repairs, professional service makes all the difference.
Get a Personalized Electrical Estimate Today
Every home is unique. Every electrical system tells its own story.
If you’re dealing with breaker issues, outdated wiring, power problems, or an electrical emergency in Allentown, PA, contact Estevez Electric LLC today for a professional inspection and honest estimate.
Invest in safety. Invest in reliability. Invest in quality electrical work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical Pricing in Allentown, PA
How much does an electrician charge per hour in Allentown, PA?
In the Allentown area, most licensed electricians charge between $90 and $150 per hour for standard service calls. Emergency, after-hours, or complex projects may cost more due to urgency, safety requirements, and specialized equipment.
Some projects are priced as flat-rate services rather than hourly, especially for breaker replacement, outlet installation, or panel repairs.
Is emergency electrical service more expensive?
Yes. Emergency electrical service typically costs more than scheduled appointments.
In most cases, homeowners can expect emergency service calls to start around $200 to $400, with total repair costs ranging from $300 to $1,500 or more, depending on the issue.
The higher price reflects 24/7 availability, rapid response, and the added safety measures required during urgent situations.
Do I need a permit for circuit breaker or panel replacement?
In most cases, yes.
The City of Allentown and local municipalities generally require permits and inspections for:
- Electrical panel replacements
- Major breaker upgrades
- Whole-home rewiring
- Service upgrades
A licensed electrician will handle the permitting process and ensure all work meets current building codes.
How long does circuit breaker replacement take?
A single circuit breaker replacement usually takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on accessibility and panel condition.
Multiple breaker replacements or panel repairs may take 2 to 4 hours or longer if additional wiring issues are discovered.
How long does home rewiring take?
Rewiring timelines depend on the size and layout of the home.
On average:
- Partial rewiring: 1 to 3 days
- Whole-home rewiring: 5 to 10 days
Older homes may take longer due to plaster walls, limited access, or outdated systems.
Can old wiring increase my home insurance costs?
Yes. Homes with outdated wiring systems—such as knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring—may face higher insurance premiums or coverage limitations.
Some insurance providers require electrical upgrades before issuing or renewing policies. Rewiring can improve safety and may help reduce long-term insurance costs.
Is it cheaper to replace a breaker or upgrade the entire panel?
If only one breaker is faulty, replacement is usually the most cost-effective option.
However, a full panel upgrade may be recommended if:
- Breakers trip frequently
- The panel is outdated
- There is corrosion or overheating
- Your home lacks sufficient capacity
While panel upgrades cost more upfront, they often prevent repeated repairs and future failures.
What are the signs I need emergency electrical service?
Call an electrician immediately if you notice:
- Burning smells
- Smoke from outlets or panels
- Sparking wires
- Buzzing sounds
- Repeated power loss
- Warm outlets or switches
These are warning signs of serious electrical hazards that should never be ignored.
Do estimates from Estevez Electric LLC include parts and labor?
Yes. Professional estimates typically include:
- Labor
- Standard materials
- Required permits
- Inspection coordination
Your electrician should always explain what is included before work begins, so there are no surprises.
How can I reduce electrical repair costs?
Homeowners can reduce costs by:
- Scheduling regular inspections
- Addressing small issues early
- Avoiding DIY electrical repairs
- Upgrading outdated panels proactively
- Using energy-efficient fixtures
Preventative maintenance almost always costs less than emergency repairs.
