The cost of fixing an electrical problem depends on finding its cause, not just naming the symptom. A dead outlet, flickering light, or tripping breaker can have several explanations. AJ Long Electric uses published time-based pricing for diagnostic and repair work and free estimates for defined projects.
What diagnostics and repairs cost
Diagnostics and repairs cost $195 for the first 30 minutes, then $60 for each additional 15 minutes. Many common issues can be diagnosed and resolved within 30–60 minutes. Timing depends on the issue; more complex problems can take longer.
The first charge covers the initial 30 minutes; additional time is priced in 15-minute increments. Before scheduling, describe the issue and ask any questions about what the appointment includes. Do not assume that a generic online price for an outlet or breaker describes the work your home needs.
What changes the time required
- Repeatability: a fault that appears only occasionally may require more investigation than a problem present throughout the visit.
- Access: locked rooms, blocked equipment, finished ceilings, and concealed cable routes affect what can be checked.
- Extent: one affected device differs from several rooms losing power.
- Previous work: undocumented alterations can make circuit identification harder.
- Equipment: the repair must use compatible parts and account for the condition of the existing installation.
Diagnosis, repair, and a larger project
Diagnosis identifies the cause. Repair addresses it. Some problems can be found and corrected during the same appointment; others reveal damaged equipment, a cable problem, or a wider project that needs a separate scope. The electrician should explain what was found and what the proposed next step includes.
Request an Estimate from AJ Long Electric
Whether it is a simple repair or a major electrical project, our licensed team is ready to help. Serving all of Northern Virginia with transparent pricing and expert workmanship. Call (571) 444-6886 today.
Replacing a failed component does not necessarily resolve the reason it failed. For example, a protective device that trips needs investigation before deciding whether the device itself is the problem. We avoid quoting a guaranteed fix from a symptom alone.
How to prepare without doing electrical work
Write down the affected rooms or devices, when the issue began, and any recent appliance or renovation changes. Photos of the closed panel, device exterior, and work area can help with planning. Keep covers in place and do not touch damaged or exposed electrical parts. Clear a path to the affected areas and tell us about access restrictions before the appointment.
If there is smoke, fire, active arcing, or another immediate hazard, keep away and contact emergency services as appropriate. Do not delay urgent help while comparing repair prices.
How the dispatch fee differs from diagnostic work
The $99 dispatch fee applies only when we arrive prepared to complete a project, provide the price on site, and you decline the work. It covers travel and preparation. It is waived when you accept the on-site quote and for active members. It is not charged for a scheduled estimate visit.
That is a specific condition for a ready-to-work project visit. It is not the price of a diagnostic appointment, and it does not turn completed diagnostic work into a free estimate.
Bundling several concerns
Give us the complete list before the visit. A planned fixture replacement and an intermittent circuit problem may need different preparation. Putting them on one list helps us understand access, equipment, and time needs; it does not guarantee a fixed completion time or discount.
AJ Long Electric estimates and service pricing
Estimates are free for every service. Scheduled estimate visits and written project prices are free. Diagnostic and repair work is a separately priced service.
Our quoted electrical installations include a five-year workmanship warranty from completion. Parts and equipment carry their manufacturer warranties.
Read about our repair service, review project cost ranges, or contact us to discuss your electrical work.
