Pro Tips for Effective Switchboard Maintenance

In this age of powerful appliances, an up-to-date switchboard installation is crucial in maintaining an efficient and safe electrical system for your home. Central to this system in nearly every Australian home is the electrical switchboard.

An electrical switchboard serves as the primary hub for power distribution in your home, connecting the electrical supply to different electrical circuits. Proper maintenance and the importance of professional electrician involvement are key elements of safe switchboard maintenance.

Understanding the Switchboard

Before delving into the maintenance tips, it is crucial to understand your switchboard. An old switchboard uses ceramic fuses, whereas a new electrical switchboard will utilise safety switches and circuit breakers for power distribution. These two parts are integral to maintaining a safe domestic switchboard installation.

Safety switches, or residual current device (RCD) safety switches, protect you from electric shocks by rapidly turning off power when they detect an imbalance in the electrical current. On the other hand, new circuit breakers protect your electric switchboard from short circuits and overloads, reducing the risk of electrical fires.

Maintaining Your Switchboard

Just like any other equipment, such as your fuse box and circuit breaker, modern switchboards also need proper maintenance from a qualified electrician to function optimally. Here are a few strategies to maintain your switchboard and ensure electrical safety in your home.

Regular Visual Inspections

Start with a simple visual inspection of your switchboard every few months. Search for any signs of wear or tear, such as fraying of copper wire insulation or rust. If you spot any red flags, contact a licenced electrician right away to avoid any potential risks.

Testing Your Safety Switches

Safety switches, also known as RCD safety switches, are designed to protect you from electrical shocks. They do this by instantly cutting off the power supply when they detect an imbalance in the electrical current. Regular testing of these switches is essential for a safe domestic switchboard. You can easily do this by pressing the ‘T’ or ‘Test’ button found on your switchboard. If the power turns off and then easily restores when you flick the switch back, your safety switch is working correctly.

Professional Check-ups

Having a professional electrician perform regular check-ups on your switchboard is an effective way to maintain it. Whether you have an outdated switchboard that perhaps needs upgrading, or recently installed a brand new switchboard, they can spot and rectify potential issues that might not be noticeable during a basic visual inspection.

Look Out for Overloading

Overloading of power outlets is a common issue that can lead to severe damage to your switchboard. Whenever you’re using too many appliances at once, make sure your current switchboard installation can handle the load to prevent any electrical mishaps.

Following these tips and safety precautions can help you avoid any potential electrical hazards. However, remember that when it comes to any major electrical work, hiring a qualified electrician is always safer and more efficient.

Knowing When to Upgrade Your Switchboard

As technology evolves and homes become more reliant on sophisticated appliances, your switchboard needs to keep up.

If you’re constantly experiencing tripped safety switches, blown fuses, flickering lights or a short circuit in your electrical system, it might be a sign that your existing switchboard needs an upgrade. Knowing when to install a new switchboard is crucial to ensure the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical supply.

• Frequent tripping of safety switches: If your safety switches are tripping frequently, it might signify a problem with your switchboard. Keep track of how often your safety switches are tripping and consult an electrician to examine your switchboard for any issues. The time might be right for a new switchboard installation.
• Fuses blowing and circuit breakers tripping: While occasional blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers can be common, recurrent incidents may indicate that your switchboard is unable to handle the power requirements of your appliances. Upgrading to a more modern switchboard can address this issue.
• Flickering lights: Flickering lights can result from an overloaded switchboard or issues with the power supply. While it could be a minor issue with your light fittings, if it’s consistent across multiple rooms, it could suggest the need for a switchboard upgrade.
• Older switchboard technology: Outdated switchboards with ceramic fuses may not provide the same high degree of protection as a modern switchboard with safety switches and circuit breakers. Upgrading your switchboard can improve both the safety and performance of your home’s electrical system.
• Adding high-powered appliances: If you’re planning to add high-powered appliances or devices to your home, like air conditioning units or electric hot water systems, it might be time to upgrade your switchboard to accommodate the increased load.
• Signs of wear and tear: Over time, wear and tear on your switchboard can lead to safety concerns. Regularly inspect your switchboard for signs of damage, such as frayed wiring or rust, and consult a licensed electrician if you notice any issues.

Knowing when to upgrade your switchboard is essential for the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system. Keep a close eye on the warning signs outlined above, and never hesitate to consult a professional electrician who can assess your switchboard and recommend the best course of action.

Sequential Steps in a Switchboard Upgrade

Taking certain measures can ensure that the installation process is not only successful but devoid of any accidents.

Here are the main safety tips to follow during a switchboard installation:

1. Power disconnection: The first thing electricians do before starting the installation is to disconnect the property from the main power supply completely. This step is critical to prevent electric shocks during setup.
2. Site preparation: Preparing the site means ensuring the switchboard location is dry, free of any obstructions, and within easy reach during an emergency. These considerations can make the installation safer and mitigate the risk of electrical faults and accidents in the future.
3. Proper use of tools: Electricians should use insulated tools to ensure extra protection against accidental shocks. It is also necessary to use quality equipment and accessories (like safety switches) that comply with Australian standards, contributing to the overall safety of the installation.
4. Testing the new switchboard: Once the switchboard is installed, the electrician should thoroughly test it before re-energising the system. This step ensures everything is functioning as expected and will provide peace of mind that the new switchboard you install is safe.
5. Providing a safety certificate: Once the electrician completes the installation, they should provide you with an Electrical Safety Certificate. This document confirms the work meets established safety and quality standards as per Australian law.

Remember, a do-it-yourself approach can lead to mistakes and expose you to potential risks. Therefore, always engage a professional electrician for such tasks to ensure safety and compliance with Australian standards.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional

While you can do minor checks and inspections, intensive electrical work on your electrical switchboards should only be conducted by a professional electrician. This is due to the risk of electric shock or worse, an electrical fire. Stay safe and compliant by involving professionals to maintain and upgrade your switchboard. It’s the best way to ensure your home’s electrical system operates smoothly and reliably.

Remember, it’s always better to have your switchboard periodically checked by a professional to maintain a high standard of electrical safety in your home. Thinking about your switchboard or have concerns about its functionality? Reach out to a highly-rated, professional service in your area.

Don’t Take Risks with Electricity

Don’t take unnecessary risks with your home’s electrical equipment and electrical wiring system. Prioritise safety and efficiency by ensuring your switchboard is up to par. After all, a switchboard acts as the control panel of your home. It dictates the reliability of your power and the safety of your environment.

Play it safe, opt for great service, and rest easy knowing your electrical safety is uncompromised.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.