Switchboard upgrades are an essential part of home electrical safety. They help keep your home safe from fires and electricity outages while ensuring your appliances continue to work properly.
A good electrician should be able to identify any issues with your switchboard and upgrade it accordingly. However, you may be wondering if it’s really necessary to get one done.
Safety
Switchboard upgrades are essential to ensuring the safety of your home and family. They protect you against electrical shocks and fires and reduce your energy bills by minimising unnecessary power usage.
All homes in Australia are required to have a switchboard that meets current electrical standards. These regulations include several safety features, including Residual Current Devices (RCDs).
RCDs work by detecting leakage current in the electricity and automatically tripping to cut off the power. It prevents the electricity from flowing through people and animals and reduces your chances of injury or death from an electric shock.
Older switchboards don’t have RCD protection, so they can be dangerous if not checked regularly. They might also have ceramic rewireable fuses instead of circuit breakers, which are unsafe and should be replaced.
A new switchboard can easily cope with extra power demands and is fitted with inbuilt safety switches to minimise the risk of electrical fires. They also offer surge protection to keep your equipment running safely and efficiently.
If your switchboard is frequently tripping, you should get it inspected by an electrician. Several things, including faulty wiring and damaged cables, can cause it.
Another thing that could indicate a problem with your switchboard is if you notice scorch marks or a burning smell. It is a sign that your fuse boxes are getting close to melting and need to be replaced.
Alternatively, if your safety switches are frequently tripping, they don’t protect you enough against power overloads. It can occur by renovating, adding an extension or buying bigger appliances that are more demanding on the power supply.
Increased Value
Switchboards are a critical component of many commercial and industrial properties. They must be properly maintained and regularly upgraded. Failing to do so can cause serious problems for these businesses.
If your current switchboard is older and hasn’t been properly upgraded, it may risk becoming a fire hazard. Older switchboards are also less efficient than modern ones, meaning they can waste electricity and drive up power bills.
Keeping your switchboard up to date is essential for your safety, family, and property. Upgrading it will protect everyone from electrical shocks and burns, and it can also increase the value of your home when you decide to sell.
One of the most common reasons people put off switchboard upgrades Adelaide is that they feel it is too expensive. However, this is not the case – updating your switchboard can be a worthwhile investment that will save you money in the long run.
A newer switchboard will have more circuit breakers and switches, making finding and fixing problems easier. It will also be more energy-efficient, so it will help you reduce your monthly power costs.
Another benefit of switchboard upgrades is that they will protect your equipment from blown fuses. Older fuses are not designed to handle the increased load that modern homes and appliances often place on them.
It is a major safety concern and should be addressed immediately. If your fuses are constantly blowing or have any other concerns about your switchboard, it is best to call an electrician to upgrade it as soon as possible.
Increased Energy Efficiency
Upgrading your switchboard can help to reduce energy costs in your home. Modern switchboards are more efficient than older ones and are often compatible with solar panels. Moreover, they are much more likely to be compatible with smart meters, which can be an excellent way to save money on electricity bills.
In addition to saving you money on your power bills, upgrading your switchboard can make using energy-efficient appliances easier. These can save you a significant amount of money over time.
You can also lower the risk of an electrical fire by replacing your old switchboard with a new one. A newer panel will ensure that your electrical system meets the latest safety standards, minimising the risk of accidents or injury.
Additionally, professional electricians with the skills necessary to carry out the work safely can install your new switchboard. Upgrading your switchboard is an important step for keeping your family safe and can also boost your property value.
If your switchboard is more than 20 years old, it’s probably time to consider getting a replacement. Older switches aren’t designed to handle the increased electricity demands of modern homes and appliances. They may overheat or even melt, which can cause serious damage to your property.