Is it time to upgrade my electrical switchboard?

How do I know if my switchboard needs to be upgraded?

If you need a switchboard electrician – you’ve come to the right place!

Electrical faults remain one of the most common causes of injuries in the home and one of the leading causes of residential fires.

While your electrical system is something you can ignore when everything’s working well – a problem or a suspected problem, is something you need to deal with seriously and quickly to prevent any harm coming to you or your property.

If you’re renovating or living in an older property it’s likely you’ll need to think about upgrading your switchboard.

For your own safety we always recommend having a qualified electrician check your system.

There are a few ways to tell if your switchboard needs to be upgraded or repaired. We explore these in the article below, specific to residential electrical issues.

Need a local electrician to inspect, repair, or replace your switchboard?

Your switchboard is designed to safely distribute power throughout your home. If your switchboard fails, it’s old, faulty or causing unexpected problems it’s important you get in touch with Propkop Electrical for switchboard repairs in Melbourne as soon as possible to protect your property.

If you’re a property manager or landlord, our property management electricians can work with your strata management, too.

What is a residential switchboard?

A switchboard is an electrical system where power is divided from the main source out through sub circuits to your property. Switchboards provide an important protective insulated circuit breaker or safety switch which shuts down all the power in case of a fault or power surge (this is a safety measure to avoid fires or electric shocks).

We’re here to help you with the guide below so you know what to look out for if you’re concerned your electrical system or switchboard may need repairs or upgrading all together.

We can’t stress enough – this isn’t something you can ignore. If you suspect there’s a problem with your switchboard or electrical wiring, do not leave this for a later date.

The risks of not dealing with your switchboard include:

• Not being able to keep up with the demands of modern demands with multiple devices in each room which can lead to damaged appliances
• If the electrical system in your property is under too much demand, you are at risk for a serious electric shock from one of your appliances
• There is a high risk of electrical fire because modern switchboards include measures to prevent fires and prevent overload

What is a mains upgrade?

The mains is the term used to refer to the electrical supply coming from the power station to the house you live in. Upgrading the mains includes the upgrade of cables between your switchboard, meter box, and the point of supply. This is either a power pole or underground pit usually located on the street.

You would upgrade your mains and the system to allow you to use more power. This may be especially suitable in an under home that now needs to power modern, large-draw items like an air conditioning system or swimming pool.

Does my switchboard need to be upgraded?

There are a few different signs to look out for when it comes to assessing if you need to upgrade or replace your electrical switchboard. A qualified electrician can evaluate your switchboard, electrical needs, and the wiring and advise you on next steps.

Upgrading your switchboard involves replacing all the ceramic fuses for modern, safe circuit breakers, and RCDs.

All the wiring is enclosed in one space, tidying the cables and rewiring any that need to be replaced. Before the electrical switchboard upgrade is complete, each wire and set up is tested.

If you live in an older property, it’s been a number of years since you’ve had any electrical work done, or you’re experiencing frequently blown fuses, electrical shocks, hearing buzzing or be renovating your property – chances are you’ll need to upgrade your switchboard to cope with the electrical demands of modern living.

When was the last time your switchboard was upgraded? Book an inspection as soon as possible if you’re experiencing frequent:

• Blown fuses
• Electrical shocks
• Buzzing sounds

How long does it take to upgrade a switchboard?

Of course every property is unique, but generally speaking our expert technicians can upgrade your residential switchboard in around four hours. This depends on the type of installation needed, the existing state of the switchboard you have, the fuse box, how complicated the upgrade will be, and your existing wiring.

Concerned about your switchboard?

Whether you’re concerned or simply curious, the best antidote for peace of mind is to organise an on-site inspection from our local electricians in Melbourne.

Our team is one of Melbourne’s most reliable electrical contractors, providing outstanding commercial and residential electrical services throughout Melbourne. Contact us today to see how we can help you!

Call Ricky and the team on 1300 PROKOP (1300 776 567) or enquire online.