Taking care of your home is a big task. One part that should never be left out is your electrical system. Whether you’re building, renovating or just doing some updates, knowing how to keep your electrics safe and working well is important. Here’s a detailed guide to electrical contractors in Ireland, house rewiring costs, and maintenance tips to help you keep everything in top shape.
Why you need electrical contractors
Electrical contractors have special training to set up, fix, and look after electrical systems. They are there to make sure your wiring, switches and sockets are safe and working properly.
If you’re doing big changes in your home, like building an extension or changing how your rooms look, you need a professional electrical contractor. They know how to:
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Install new wiring and switches safely
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Fix problems like power cuts and flickering lights
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Test your system to check that everything works as it should
A good electrical contractor will also help you plan where to put sockets and lights to suit your needs. They can suggest the best options so you don’t waste energy or money.
When to hire an electrical contractor
There are a few times when calling in an expert is the best idea:
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When your home is old and you’re not sure about the safety of the wiring
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If you’re building an extension or changing rooms around
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When you want to add new sockets or lights
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If your fuse board is old and needs updating
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If you hear buzzing or see sparks from your sockets
A professional will check everything and fix problems before they get worse.
What does rewiring involve?
Rewiring means taking out the old cables and putting in new ones. This helps keep your home safe and ready for modern appliances.
Here’s what the job often includes:
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Taking out old wires and fitting new ones
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Fitting new sockets and switches
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Updating the fuse board or consumer unit
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Testing the system to make sure it’s all working
Rewiring can be a big job. It often means lifting floorboards and taking plaster off walls. But it’s worth it. Old wires can overheat and cause fires. New wiring keeps you safe and can save money in the long run.
Signs that your house might need rewiring
Sometimes it’s easy to see when your house needs new wiring. Watch out for:
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Sockets or switches that are hot or smell burnt
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Fuses that trip all the time
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Old rubber or fabric wiring
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Cracks or burn marks around sockets
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Buzzing sounds in the walls
Experts say you should rewire your home every twenty years. If your home is older and still has its first set of wires, it might be time to act.
How much does rewiring cost?
Rewiring costs can vary, depending on:
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The size of your home
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How old it is
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How easy it is to get to the wires
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How many sockets and lights you want
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If you want extras like new fuse boards or extra lights
In general:
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Electricians charge between €30 and €40 an hour
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A full rewire for a three-bedroom house costs about €4,500 to €6,500
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The job usually takes five to seven days
Upgrading a fuse board costs around €350. If you want new lights or sockets, prices will depend on the type and number you choose.
Other jobs an electrician can do
Besides rewiring, electricians can help with many other jobs in your home:
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Installing new plug sockets in bedrooms and living rooms
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Fitting new lights in kitchens and bathrooms
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Putting in security systems and smart home controls
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Fixing electric showers and extractor fans
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Updating old fuse boards to safer modern units
If you’re adding an extension, an electrician can plan the best way to run power to the new space.
Safety tips for your home’s electrics
Looking after your electrical system is about more than rewiring. Good habits and simple checks can help you stay safe:
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Never overload sockets with too many plugs
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Replace cracked or broken sockets straight away
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Switch off appliances when you’re not using them
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Get your wiring checked if you see flickering lights
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Do not try to fix electrical problems on your own
Electrical work is not something to guess at. Always use a registered professional to make sure everything meets safety rules.
How to choose the right electrician
Picking the right person for the job is key. Here’s how to make sure you’re getting someone you can trust:
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Check they’re registered with a professional body
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Read reviews or comments from other customers
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Ask for a detailed quote before the work begins
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Make sure they offer a guarantee on the work
A good electrician will be happy to show you their qualifications and explain what needs to be done.
Help for older homeowners
If you’re over 66 and need help with electrical work, you might be able to get a grant. The Housing Aid for Older People scheme offers up to €8,000 to help cover the cost of essential repairs, including rewiring.
This can be a big help if you need work done but don’t have the budget for it.
Following the Building Regulations
Before you start any big electrical work, check if it falls under local Building Regulations. In many areas, changes like new wiring or fuse board updates need to be checked by the council.
A registered electrician can take care of this for you. They’ll tell the council what work is planned and make sure it meets the right rules.
Maintaining your home’s electrical system
Looking after your wiring isn’t just about safety. It also helps you save money. Well-maintained electrics:
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Reduce the chance of power cuts
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Stop energy waste
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Help your appliances work better and last longer
Here’s how to keep things in top shape:
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Get your electrics checked every ten years
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Replace old or broken sockets
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Watch out for tripped fuses or flickering lights
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Keep cables tidy and out of the way to avoid wear and tear
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Do not let anyone who isn’t a pro work on your electrics
Regular checks mean fewer surprises
If you look after your electrics, you’re less likely to face problems later. Think of it like looking after your car – a bit of care now stops bigger problems later on.
Ready to hire a trusted electrician?
If you’re thinking about rewiring or need help with anything electric, finding a good electrician is the first step. Trusty Trades can help you find registered electricians in your area quickly and easily.
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Send your request online for free
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Get quotes from local professionals
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Compare prices and reviews
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Choose the best one for your needs
No need to spend ages searching. Let the pros come to you!
Get free quotes now
You can start today by sending in your request. It only takes a few minutes and you’re not tied to any quote. When you find the right electrician, you’ll know your home is safe and ready for the future.
Find a trusted electrician on Trusty Trades
Want to find a trusted electrician? Trusty Trades makes it easy. With reviews from real customers, you can feel sure you’re getting a pro who knows what they’re doing. Your home’s electrics will be in good hands.
