How VoltGuide works

What VoltGuide does

VoltGuide is a free matching service for homeowners in the US. We help you describe the job, understand the usual next steps, and connect with electricians who handle that kind of work in your area.

We are not an electrician or electrical contractor. We do not perform, design, permit, inspect, or supervise electrical work. Electrical work is dangerous and regulated. The work itself should be done by a licensed, insured, and bonded electrician, with local permits and code followed when required.

People use VoltGuide for common jobs like:
- panel upgrades
- outlet and switch problems
- flickering lights
- EV charger installs
- rewiring older homes
- urgent electrical issues

If you are just starting, you can get matched or review typical electrical costs before you talk to anyone.

How the matching process works

The process is simple:

1. Tell us about the job. Share basic details like the problem, the type of home, your ZIP code, and how to reach you. Do not send sensitive information like bank account numbers or Social Security numbers.
2. We match you with electricians. We look for licensed, insured, bonded electricians who take jobs like yours in your area.
3. You talk to them directly. Ask what they think the job involves, whether a permit may be needed, and when they can come out.
4. You compare written pricing and scope. Get the expected work, materials, permit responsibility, and payment terms in writing before any deposit.
5. You choose who to hire. Or choose no one. The decision is yours.

For safety, VoltGuide does not tell homeowners to open the panel, replace breakers, or do wiring themselves. If you notice a burning smell, smoke, sparks, shocks, or fire, stop using that circuit and call a licensed electrician now. If there is smoke or fire, call 911.

Before hiring, use a quick checklist like this: how to check an electrician license.

What it costs you

VoltGuide is free to the homeowner. You do not pay us to use the service. Participating electricians pay a flat fee to be included.

What you may pay is the electrician you hire. Real prices depend on the panel, the wiring, the scope, the materials, permits, and your area. That is why every number you see on VoltGuide is a typical range or estimate, not a quote or guarantee.

Common examples:
- service call: $120-$400
- install or move an outlet: $150-$350
- whole-house surge protector: $250-$500
- panel upgrade to 200A: $1,800-$4,500
- Level 2 EV charger install: $600-$2,200
- whole-house rewire: $8,000-$25,000+ depending on home size
- many electricians charge $50-$130 per hour or a flat rate per job

A low price is not always a good deal. If one bid is far below the others, ask what is missing. The permit? Drywall repair? A new breaker? Wire upgrades? A written scope protects you.

You stay in control

A lot of homeowners worry they will get pushed into work they do not understand. That is exactly why your control matters.

With VoltGuide:
- You compare quotes instead of taking the first number you hear.
- You choose who to hire based on license, communication, availability, and written scope.
- You verify the license yourself and ask for proof of insurance and bond.
- You hold the final payment until the agreed work is finished.

A few smart habits can save you money and stress:
- Ask whether the price includes permit handling if a permit is required.
- Ask what could change the final price once the electrician sees the panel and wiring.
- Ask who will actually perform the work.
- Keep texts, emails, and the written scope.

If your project may involve permit questions, this guide helps: electrical permits explained.

When to use VoltGuide

VoltGuide is useful when you need help finding the right pro, not just any pro.

You may want a match if:
- the lights flicker and you do not know whether it is a fixture issue or a larger wiring problem
- your panel is full and you need more capacity
- you are planning an EV charger and want someone who handles that work often
- you live in an older home and are worried about outdated wiring
- you need help fast after a sudden outage, burning odor, or repeated breaker trips

For bigger jobs, it helps to read a little first so you can ask better questions. Homeowners often start with panel upgrades or rewiring when those are the likely issues.

The goal is simple: make it easier to find qualified electricians, understand typical costs, and avoid getting rushed into a bad hire.