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Quick Answer
The cost to add an outlet behind a TV typically ranges from $150 to $300, with the average homeowner paying around $200 to have an electrician install a new outlet. The exact price depends on several factors, including the complexity of the job, local electrician rates, and the materials needed. In some cases, installing a new outlet behind a TV may require fishing wires through walls or ceilings, which can add $100 or more to the total cost.
Factors That Impact Cost
There are several variables that influence the overall price to add a new electrical outlet behind a television:
Location and Accessibility
If there is easy access to the wall space behind the TV, such as in a basement or open concept room, installing the new outlet will be simpler and faster for an electrician. But if the outlet needs to be added on an upper floor or in a more finished part of the home, labor may be higher due to extra work involved in cutting holes through drywall and fishing wires through framing. Difficult access can add $50 to $100+ to the project cost.
Wiring Complexity
The complexity of running new wiring to the outlet location will also impact total pricing. If there is an existing wire box nearby that the outlet can easily be tied into, costs will be lower. But if the electrician needs to route new wires through finished walls, ceilings, or crawlspaces, expect added labor and materials expenses.
Conduit Installation
For safety and aesthetics, the electrician may recommend installing conduit to protect the new wiring. Plastic or metal conduit materials can range from $.50 to $2 per linear foot, which would need to be factored into the total price. Conduit installation will also increase labor time.
Wall Materials
The type of material the electrician will be cutting into should be accessed and prepared for. A hollow drywall wall will be simpler to cut and patch versus a masonry wall of brick, concrete, or stone. Specific tools and repair products are required for different wall types.
Electrician Rates
Electrician labor costs range from $40 to $120 per hour based on local rates, experience, licensing, and overhead expenses. Simple outlet projects may only take 2-3 hours while complicated installs could take 8 hours or more if substantial wiring work is required. This time significantly impacts the final costs.
Cost Breakdown
Here is a typical price breakdown for adding a new electrical outlet behind a TV:
Electrician Labor
* 2-8 hours of electrician time at $50-$100 per hour: $100-$800
Materials
* Romex 12/2 nonmetallic cable: $40-$60
* Electrical box: $5-$10
* Outlet receptacle: $3-$5
* Wall plate cover: $2-$5
* Conduit: $0.50-$2 per ft. as needed
* Misc. supplies: $20-$50
Other Potential Costs
* Drywall repair: $50-$300 if wall cutting is extensive
* Painting: $30-$70 per hole if priming/painting needed
* Permit fee: Up to $100 depending on area
Saving on Costs
Here are some ways that homeowners can save on costs when adding an outlet behind a television:
DIY Installation
Homeowners with electrical knowledge can purchase materials at home improvement stores for $100-$200 and complete the installation themselves. This can save 50% or more compared to hiring an electrician. However, a permit is still required in many areas.
Outlet Location
Strategically choosing an outlet location that already has accessible power lines reduces the need for new wiring. Outlets on the same stud bay often share wires.
Conduit Not Required
Check local codes – conduit may not be required for all applications, potentially saving $50+ in materials and labor.
Wall Fishing
Consider using specialty cavity wiring tools to fish wires behind walls instead of cutting large openings if you DIY. These tools save on drywall repair.
Electrician Quotes
Get multiple quotes to find the best local electrician rates. Rates can vary significantly.
Electrical Codes and Permits
It is important that any electrical work is done to code and permitted to ensure safety. Key guidelines include:
Electrical Load
The number of outlets on the existing circuit will impact the electrical load. There must be capacity on the circuit for an additional outlet.
GFCI Protection
Outlet should have ground fault protection near water sources like kitchens/bathrooms.
Outlet Box
Outlet box should be large enough to accommodate wires, clamps, and receptacle volume.
Wire Gauge
Proper wire thickness based on amperage rating and length of wire run.
Electrical Permit
Permit must be obtained in advance to meet local building codes and inspection requirements.
Failing inspections or code compliance can result in fines and needing to redo work, so it pays to follow proper protocol.
Conclusion
Adding an outlet behind a TV to eliminate unsightly wires and cords typically costs between $150-$300 depending on the specific location, materials, and amount of labor involved. Carefully planning the project and understanding your home’s electrical system can help minimize costs. Following local permit and inspection regulations is also advised. With some basic DIY skills, installing a new outlet is a project many homeowners can take on at considerable cost savings compared to hiring an electrician. Just be sure to put safety first and turn off power at the panel before beginning any electrical work.
| Cost Factor | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Electrician Labor | $100 – $800 |
| Materials | $50 – $150 |
| Drywall Repair | $50 – $300 |
| Permit Fee | Up to $100 |
| Total Cost | $150 – $300 on average |