Reasonable estimate to relocate a 220V electric dryer outlet: $300?!? (roof, washer, drain)

[yosenut]

Got a quote in Atlanta area to move existing, separate-breakered 220V dryer outlet from wall containing actual service panel to adjacent wall.

I can't use an existing outlet because the dryer vent is on the far side of adjacent wall and the washer hot/cold water spigots and drain are in between. Maybe I should instead buy extended hoses for hot/cold water and the dryer vent?

The wires are behind drywall (not currently exposed).


Thanks in advance.

[RoaminRed]

Yeah, that sounds about normal since it sounds like they have to go around plumbing and existing venting to do it. Unless you want them to conduit it and not have it hidden in the wall, then I'd think it shouldn't be quite that much.

[BobKovacs]

Not surprising- especially for such a small project. Most electrical contractors charge between $75-125/hour, and even though the job itself may only take an hour, they've got to pick up material, drive to your home, do the work, and then get on to the next project. They also need to cover the time it spent to give you the estimate that you're questioning

Also bear in mind that copper prices have got through the roof in the past few years- even if we're only talking about moving the outlet 5', there could easily be $50 in materials.

[RoaminRed]

Originally Posted by BobKovacs

Not surprising- especially for such a small project. Most electrical contractors charge between $75-125/hour, and even though the job itself may only take an hour, they've got to pick up material, drive to your home, do the work, and then get on to the next project. They also need to cover the time it spent to give you the estimate that you're questioning

Also bear in mind that copper prices have got through the roof in the past few years- even if we're only talking about moving the outlet 5', there could easily be $50 in materials.

Yeah, when I found a licensed electrician that would change my 60amp fuse box for an upgraded 200amp breaker box, and only wanted $800 I jumped all over that one.

[yosenut]

RoaminRed, your logic is sensible and Bob, thanks for reminding me about the copper.

I really appreciate all your comments.

[Philip T]

I am an Electrical Contractor. Not saying the priice is reasonable or not, but I score this type stuff as severe PITA. (Pain in . . . ). Don't mean to be giving any bad attitude, but if there is not at least $1,000 involved there is just little profit for the pain.

A possible cheap way out is to put an ad in your local craigslist. Title it something like "Electrican -- Install Dryer Plug." Describe what you want and name your price, and see what calls might get from guys who are slow on work.

[Bones]

Originally Posted by Philip T

I am an Electrical Contractor. Not saying the priice is reasonable or not, but I score this type stuff as severe PITA. (Pain in . . . ). Don't mean to be giving any bad attitude, but if there is not at least $1,000 involved there is just little profit for the pain.

A possible cheap way out is to put an ad in your local craigslist. Title it something like "Electrican -- Install Dryer Plug." Describe what you want and name your price, and see what calls might get from guys who are slow on work.

Not a great idea IMHO. If not licensed,( still could be an electrician), Mr. handyman could create big problems....

[yosenut]

Thanks for all the input, Bones and Philip. If anything, I've been convinced that extending hoses is not the way to go. I'm going to get the licensed electrician in here.