Do I Need to Upgrade my Switchboard?
“Do I need to upgrade my switchboard?” is not a question people ask themselves regularly, although the electric switchboard is an essential device at home. Just like the rest of your home’s features, it can need an upgrade or a replacement. A properly working switchboard ensures your home appliances will function: a hot shower in the morning, and a hot drink at breakfast. Your switchboard should be able to handle the load and efficiently work each and every day. So, how do you know if you need a switchboard to upgrade?
Reasons why a switchboard needs upgrade or replacement
- The switchboard is looking crowded
- The powerpoint sparks when plugged with an appliance
- Receiving a light electric shock when you insert a plug
- Recently upgrading an electrical appliance/appliances
- The switchboard does not have a circuit break
- Power points are hot to touch
- House wirings have discolouration
- If it’s mandated by Australian law
Why do I need to upgrade my switchboard?
The discovery of electricity opened a lot of doors for the creation of home appliances, gadgets, and tools. Electric tools and devices make people’s lives easy and convenient, helping with everything from communication to household chores. Your current switchboard might not be able to handle the tasks safely, especially if it’s older. The main reason for a switchboard upgrade is safety. Your old switchboard could trip or break when overtasked. It could cause fire hazards, leading to serious physical harm or property damage. Continued use of an old switchboard can risk lives and assets.
Newer switchboards are designed with built-in safety switches, thus, everyday usage is safe and lowers fire risk. In addition, newer designs are built to cope with the demands of modern workloads. Moreover, smart metres also require new switchboards to work properly. Also, if you’re working on switching to solar power to reduce your carbon footprint and provide your home with a greener source of power, an updated switchboard is a major requirement.
Being an important device to effectively distribute electrical power in your household, it’s crucial to give your switchboard an optimal level of care and attention. An electrical switchboard upgrade cost may be an extra expenditure but it’s an assurance that your risk of fire and shock is minimised.
If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs in your home, contact a qualified and experienced electrical contracting company like Energised Installs. From electrical emergency, installation, to preventive maintenance, we’ve got it all covered.
All Energised Installs tradesmen meet the WA Building & Energy Licensing Standards