Money-saving
GFCI outlets near water protect you from shock — but they wear out silently.
- How often
- Every 6 mo
- Who
- DIY
- Cost
- Up to $25
- Time
- 15 min
A failed GFCI removes shock protection in kitchens and bathrooms.
How & when to do itHome system
Electrical maintenance
Panel, outlets, GFCI. Below is everything your electrical needs to stay safe and efficient — sorted into what's critical, what saves money, and what's optional. Each task shows how often to do it, whether it's DIY, and what it typically costs.
- Tasks:
- 4
- Typical yearly cost:
- $300–$750
Money-saving
Warm outlets, scorch marks, and frayed cords are early warnings of a fire hazard.
- How often
- Yearly
- Who
- DIY
- Cost
- Up to $25
- Time
- 30 min
Damaged outlets and cords are a leading ignition source for electrical fires.
How & when to do itOlder panels and aluminum wiring are known fire risks worth a pro's eyes.
- How often
- Every 5 yr
- Who
- Hire a pro
- Cost
- $100–$300
- Time
- 1 hr
Undetected wiring faults are a leading cause of house fires.
How & when to do itA panel-mounted surge protector shields every device in the home from voltage spikes.
- How often
- Every 10 yr
- Who
- Hire a pro
- Cost
- $200–$400
- Time
- 2 hr
One storm surge can fry electronics, appliances, and HVAC boards at once.
How & when to do itElectrical maintenance FAQ
How often should I service my electrical?+
It depends on the task. test gfci outlets every 6 months; inspect outlets and cords for damage once a year; have the electrical panel inspected every 5 years. Your personalized manual schedules each one for you.
Can I do electrical maintenance myself?+
Many tasks are DIY-friendly. test gfci outlets and inspect outlets and cords for damage can be done with basic tools, while others (have the electrical panel inspected) are worth hiring a pro for.
What happens if I ignore electrical maintenance?+
A failed GFCI removes shock protection in kitchens and bathrooms.