Switchboard Upgrade: Protect Your Home From Electrical Hazards
If you’ve received an electrical defect notice or your fuses blow on a regular basis, it’s time for a switchboard upgrade. Upgrading your old fuse box to a new circuit board will protect you against electrical fires, overheated cables and household appliances that don’t work properly.
An electrician can help you determine if your switchboard needs to be upgraded and the corresponding switchboard upgrade cost. A few signs it might be time include:
Older switchboards are less efficient
A switchboard is responsible for distributing electricity throughout your home, and it needs to be updated with modern technology to prevent electrical hazards and reduce energy costs. Older homes with outdated switchboards can suffer from power outages, electric shocks and even fires. Fortunately, upgrading your switchboard is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your home from these risks.
If your switchboard is more than 40 years old, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. These switchboards were typically made of wood, metal or asbestos and did not comply with current safety standards. Older homes with these switchboards are also more prone to electrical fires, with faulty appliances being the main culprits.
Some warning signs to look out for include frequent circuit breaker tripping and fuses blowing. That is because older switchboards are not able to cope with the increased power demands of modern electronics.
A licensed electrician will assess your electrical system and determine whether a switchboard upgrade is required, as well as the switchboard upgrade cost. They’ll check the capacity of your electrical wiring and the number of outlets, as well as the electrical demands of your appliances. They’ll also consider your home’s future expansion plans and potential energy efficiency improvements. For example, modern switchboards can incorporate energy monitoring and automation systems to optimise your energy use and lower your energy bills.
They’re prone to electrical fires.
The switchboard is the central hub that controls all electrical wires in a home, business, or commercial setting. It contains fuses, circuit breakers, and safety switches that distribute power to appliances throughout a property. It also acts as a safeguard against fires, electrical shock, and other serious accidents. As the demands on electrical infrastructure continue to increase alongside technological advancements in energy management, communication protocols, and safety standards, a property’s switchboard must be up to date.
One of the most obvious signs that a switchboard needs an upgrade is when it starts to exhibit issues like flickering lights or frequent tripping of the circuit breaker. These indicate that the system is struggling to distribute enough power to run all your devices at once. Frequent tripping could also cause a power surge that damages your appliances, leading to expensive repairs and replacements.
It’s essential to hire a licensed electrician for all your switchboard upgrades. They will work with high-voltage electrical equipment, so they must have the proper training and expertise.
They’re made of wood or metal.
The switchboard is responsible for distributing electricity throughout your property, and old ones are less efficient. They may also have fuses that are not up to the task, which can lead to power outages and electrical fires. Upgrading your switchboard will not only protect you from these issues, but it will also save you money on electricity bills.
Newer switchboards are equipped with safety switches, which are vital for preventing electric shocks and electrocution. They can also detect irregularities in the flow of electricity and shut off the power supply. It will prevent electrical fires and reduce your risk of having to call in an electrician for repairs and maintenance.
Modern switchboards are designed to handle the demands of modern technology, making it easier to add EV car chargers or solar panels to your home. They can also help you reduce your energy costs by allowing you to set up a dedicated circuit for your high-powered appliances.
In addition, modern switchboards can support multiple electrical outlets and can cope with heavy loads of electricity. Older switchboards are prone to melting or catching on fire, so upgrading them is a wise move to ensure your family’s safety. It is recommended that you consult with a licensed electrician before proceeding with the upgrade and weighing on the switchboard upgrade cost. They will be able to assess your current switchboard and provide a detailed quote for the cost of the upgrade.