Switchboard repairs are common. Justflow Trade Services have expert electricians who deal with a range of switchboard faults and repairs every week. Below we talk about common problems with switchboards. How to avoid them. And how to get the most out of your switchboard repairs and services
– Justflow Electrical
Unfortunately if you answered yes to any of the above questions your switchboard needs attention. In addition most switchboards will work correctly if setup and wired by a licensed professional.
Similarly some electricians have not followed Australian Guidelines in the past. (AS 61439 Switchboard Wiring Standards).
It is important to note:
Firstly typical switchboard installations require adequate distribution of power across all areas of a property. Secondly certain appliances draw more power than others. Hence why household cooktops and ovens require a separate circuit. While the same applies to lighting and power outlets
Secondly power loads will vary from site to site. Therefore during an installation there must be adequate distribution without overloading a circuit
Lastly circuits that become overloaded can cause damage to appliances as well as become a safety hazard. Sometimes even causing causing fire.
Sound knowledge and implementation of Australian Standards are imperative in order to keep occupants of a home or business safe.
Owners and property managers should consider 2 options regarding their property’s switchboard. Below we’ll outline what each involves and what best suits your needs
Repairs help rectify issues related to incorrect wiring and overloaded circuits.
Sometimes repairs are very simple. For instance it could just be a simple fuse replacement
Other times however we may need to investigate. Investigating cabling can help locate the source of the issue
All old ceramic fuses and asbestos switchboards should be replaced
Old switchboards can contain asbestos. These must be changed
You might be thinking it may be time upgrade my switchboard and you may be right. Your switchboard is the core of your home’s entire electrical distribution. Problems at the switchboard can be costly to appliances and potentially fatal if not rectified.
Simply swapping out your main board could help in a number of ways.
New switchboards draw less energy from the grid. Resulting in a reduction in energy bills which can be a great saving over time.
Previous homes used copper wiring which can become a hazard. Copper was the wiring of choice for many years throughout Sydney homes.
Over time however they can become damaged or frayed. Hence the need for upgrading old wiring and main board
Also if exposed or come into contact with internal and external leaks throughout the house or property
Hence we now use much better wiring throughout the home and back to the mains and switchboard
Firstly contact your local electrician ensuring they meet all the trade requirements. Something which we’ve outlined in our previous post about electrician hire in Sydney
Secondly the electrician will come out and assess the job
Thirdly the electrician will provide a quote
Your quotation should be consistent with the requirements of the switchboard upgrade
A Licensed Level 2 Electrician must disconnect and reconnect services relating to mains power
It is best to allow for one working day for the switchboard to be upgraded or repaired. However it can be a lot faster if the electrician has prepared the board ready for installation off site
Ceramic Fuses used to be the industry standard for use across switchboards in Sydney many years ago. The rules and standards have been changed. The technology is outdated.
Additionally older switchboards are being phased out by the NSW Government
Switchboards now use RCD (residual current device). RCD’s provide better resistance, safety and quality
In 2021 to add a power point or power outlet outlet to your home you must have an upgraded switchboard for the safety of occupants in the premises. RCD’s are now a must have for homes in Sydney.
Customers may opt to upgrade the appliances in their homes or add a power points. Or possibly add new appliances. There are a multitude of reasons why you may need new power points installed. Making sure your switchboard can handle the capacity is really important
Ensuring your switchboard is up to the job is imperative. It saves your appliances and devices from potential damage.
Here are just some examples of items that draw large amounts of power from the switchboard at your property
Ovens are a culprit for consuming a lot of power. They need a separate circuit for connection
Hot Water systems are a huge draw for power As a result of gas and solar requirements. Therefore additional savings can be made when using energy efficient units
As a result of innovation we are moving rapidly to rely more on lithium and battery power. Therefore Home batteries, vehicles chargers and household devices require more power. In conclusion switchboards need more power. Hence why upgrades are necessary
To conclude ensure you are choosing a team who are focused on quality. At times simply choosing the cheapest electrician can hurt your pocket in the long run. Therefore it is important to select an electrical company who provides a stand out service. Our Switchboard repairs are backed by our Labour Guarantee and come with an extended parts warranty
If you require more information simply get in touch with our friendly team. Above all we love to help wherever we can