Outlet/Switch Replacement
$75–$125 per device
- Removal of existing device
- Installation of new outlet or switch
- Tight, secure connections (not backstabbed)
- Testing and verification
- Cover plate installation
Standard outlet or switch swap
Residential · Outlets & switches
Outlet & Switch Installation in St. Charles & St. Louis County
Upgrade your outlets and switches for modern convenience and safety. USB outlets, smart switches, and GFCI protection throughout your St. Louis area home.
MO License #20250016884.9 Star Average. 410+ Reviews.In Business Since 2010Cottleville, MO
Problem Solver
Electrical Problem Solver
Pick what you're noticing. We'll tell you what it usually means, how urgent it is, and what fixes it.
Safety first
Outlets or Switches Warm to the Touch
Outlets and switches should not feel warm. Heat points to a loose connection, an overloaded device or, in some 1960s-70s homes, aluminum branch wiring.
Stop using the outlet and unplug what is on it. If you see smoke or scorching, call 911. Then book a visit; do not keep using a hot device.
Common causes
- Loose terminal connection
- Worn-out receptacle
- Aluminum wiring at the device
- Too much load on one circuit
Signs You Need This
- Outlets feel warm or hot
- Warm outlets indicate loose connections, overloading, or internal arcing. This is a serious fire hazard requiring immediate attention.
- Sparking when plugging in devices
- Occasional small sparks are normal, but frequent or large sparks indicate worn contacts or loose wiring. Replace the outlet.
- Plugs fall out of outlets
- Worn outlet contacts no longer grip plugs securely. Besides inconvenience, loose connections can cause arcing and fires.
- Two-prong ungrounded outlets
- Older homes may have ungrounded outlets that don't protect electronics or prevent shock. Upgrade to grounded outlets for safety.
- Cracked or damaged outlet faces
- Cracked outlets expose live wiring and are shock and fire hazards. Replace immediately. Outlets are inexpensive.
- Outlets don't work consistently
- Intermittent outlets indicate loose wiring connections, often backstabbed wires that have worked loose over time.
- No GFCI in kitchen or bathroom
- GFCI outlets are code-required near water. Without them, you risk electrocution from wet hands or appliances near sinks.
- Using too many power strips
- Overreliance on power strips indicates you need more outlets. Adding outlets is safer than daisy-chaining strips.
Pricing
What It Costs
An estimate, not a quote. Estimates for installs and upgrades are free; your exact flat price comes after we see the job, and it's the price you pay.
GFCI/AFCI Upgrade
$125–$200 per location
- GFCI or AFCI outlet installation
- Proper downstream protection setup
- Trip testing and verification
- Code-compliant installation
Kitchens, bathrooms, garages, bedrooms
New Outlet Installation
$200–$400 per outlet
- Wire routing from existing circuit or panel
- New electrical box installation
- Choice of outlet type (standard, USB, GFCI)
- Wall plate and finish work
- Patching not included
Adding outlet where none exists
How It Works
From First Visit to Final Inspection
Typical job: 1-4 hours.
Needs Assessment
We discuss what you want to accomplish: adding USB charging, installing smart switches, upgrading to GFCI protection, or adding new outlet locations. We inspect existing wiring and box sizes to determine the scope of work.
Device Selection
We help you choose the right products for your needs. Do you want USB-A or USB-C outlets? Dimmer or smart switches? We explain the options and make recommendations based on your lifestyle and budget.
Quote & Scheduling
You receive a quote covering all devices and labor. For simple replacements, we can often complete the work during the same visit. For new outlet locations requiring wiring, we schedule a convenient installation time.
Power Off & Safety
We turn off power at the breaker panel and verify circuits are dead with a voltage tester. Safety is our top priority. We never work on live circuits.
Professional Installation
We remove old devices, inspect wiring condition, and install new outlets or switches with proper connections. We use screw terminals (not backstabs) for reliable, long-lasting connections.
Testing & Verification
Every outlet is tested for proper wiring (no reversed polarity or open grounds), GFCI outlets are trip-tested, and smart switches are configured and connected to your WiFi or hub. We demonstrate operation before leaving.
Verified Reviews
Read all reviews What Homeowners Say About Our Work
Reviews that mention this work first.
Michael L.
11/10/2026
Nathan
09/23/2026
Nathan
website
09/23/2026
4.9 Star Average. 410+ Reviews. Google, Facebook, BBB and Angi.
Fully licensed and insured in Missouri:MO State License #2025001688,St. Charles County #E25-000008,St. Louis County #ES4501.Lifetime workmanship warranty on installed work.
Recent work
Photos From Recent Jobs
After: new outlet installed below the panel in St. Ann, MO.
Saint AnnAfter: weatherproof outdoor outlet and GFCI on the post in Foristell, MO.
ForistellAfter: new outlet set at code height on the finished wall in Chesterfield, MO.
ChesterfieldAfter: dedicated outlet added in the utility room, wired to its own circuit in Chesterfield, MO.
ChesterfieldAfter: new outlet and device, cord replaced in O'Fallon, MO.
O'FallonAfter: 50 amp GFCI NEMA outlet for an EV charger or other heavy equipment in St. Peters, MO.
St. Peters
Service area + officeMon-Fri · 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Licensed Electricians Across St. Charles & St. Louis Counties
Flat-rate pricing before work begins, from an office in Cottleville.
First Choice Electric
5377 State Route N. Suite 437, Cottleville, MO 63304
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Outlet & Switch Installation Near You
By county
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FAQ
Questions About Outlet & Switch Installation
Do USB outlets use power when not charging?
Quality USB outlets use minimal standby power (less than 0.5W), similar to leaving a phone charger plugged in.
What's the difference between GFCI and AFCI?
GFCI protects against shock in wet areas. AFCI protects against electrical arcs that can cause fires. Both are required in specific locations by code.
Can smart switches work without a neutral wire?
Some can (like Lutron Caseta), but most work best with a neutral. We can check your wiring and recommend compatible options.
How many outlets can you add?
We can add outlets almost anywhere. The main factors are running new wiring and available circuit capacity.
Why do my outlets look burnt or discolored?
Discoloration often indicates overheating from loose connections or overloaded circuits. This is a fire hazard that should be addressed immediately.
Should I upgrade to tamper-resistant outlets?
Yes. Tamper-resistant outlets are required by code in new installations and protect children from inserting objects. We recommend them throughout your home.
What's the benefit of USB-C vs USB-A outlets?
USB-C provides faster charging (up to 30W vs 12W) and works with newer devices. We recommend outlets with both USB-A and USB-C ports.
Can you add an outlet in my kitchen island?
Yes. Code requires outlets in kitchen islands over a certain size. We can install floor outlets or route power through the base.
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Guides From Our Electricians
Our remodeling partner
Is this part of a bigger remodel?
If the walls are coming down, the basement is getting finished or the deck is going in, SC2 Contracting builds it and we do the electrical, on one schedule. Talk to Sean first and both trades show up in one quote; or book us and we will bring Sean in.
Get Your Flat Price for Outlet & Switch Installation
Most estimates booked within 1-3 business days.