Switchboard Updates: The Guide to Everything You Need to Know (2023)

Have you ever thought that your switchboard might need an update? If not, you're not alone... but it's definitely something that needs your attention.

If you're a little worried about that then you needn't worry - take a look at our Switchboard Upgrade Guide below and call Static Electrics Master Electricians on 1300 206 004 if you're on the Sunshine Coast and beyond and need information.

What exactly is a switchboard?

Every building with electricity has a switchboard, which is a central distribution box that helps route electricity around the property. Its main job is to send electrical power from the electrical grid to any area of ​​your home or business that needs it, such as When you turn on the light in your bedroom, your electrical panel is what sends power to ensure the light turns on.

What is a Switchboard upgrade?

AControl Cabinet UpgradeThis is when your current panel is upgraded to allow for more power or to meet higher power demands.

Why upgrade your switchboard?

There are a number of reasons why your electrical panel could use an upgrade, but the main one is safety. If your panel is not the correct size or is too old, it can cause an electrical surge or constant tripping, both of which are safety hazards. If this happens, or you don't think your panel is behaving this way, you should see an electrician.Control Cabinet Testto be sure. They'll let you know if an update is required, and if not, make other suggestions to keep you and those around you safe. Some other reasons that should make you consider a Switchboard upgrade are:

• Legislation:Many old distribution boards do not comply with current regulations and/or legislation.
• Smart meters:Many smart meters require newer distribution boards to function properly.
• Solar:If you're looking to install solar power on your home, many solar systems require newer distribution boards to work effectively.
• Security switch:Most newer switchboards have built-in safety switches, which reduce the risk of electric shock and reduce the risk of fire.
• Fuses:Since newer switchgear panels are better rated for the electrical workloads we experience today compared to 10+ years ago, this translates to less chance of blowing fuses.
• overload:Because newer switchboards are designed to handle the increased electrical workloads of the modern home or workplace, this results in a lower chance of overloading your switchboard.
• trip on:Your upgraded switchboard can manage the power load much more effectively, reducing the chances of circuit breakers tripping.

Since your electrical panel is the critical part of the safe power flow, it is extremely important that it work effectively 100% of the time. Problems with your electrical panel can cause ongoing problems, from an increased risk of fire to regular power outages. Therefore, keeping track of the needs of your switchboards is critical to electrical safety in a building.

How do you know if your switchboard needs an update?

There are some signs and symptoms to look out for that indicate your electrical panel may need an update; As always, if you're unsure in any way, talk to your electrician and have them look at it:

• To alter:How old is your house? If you're not sure or your house is over 20 years old, your switchboard probably needs an update.
• Wiring Age:How old is the wiring in your house? If you're not sure or if your home is getting old, chances are your switchboard needs an upgrade. For reference, if your wiring is gray and/or black, it likely needs an upgrade, while white wiring may indicate an upgrade isn't necessary yet (but have your electrician check this).
• Crowded Wiring:If you look at your panel and think the wiring looks messy, it probably is. Let an electrician take a look.
• Power suppliers:If you look at your outlets and they're an odd color or feel warm to the touch, both are signs that your distribution panel might need an update.
• Fuses:When the fuses in your building keep blowing.
• Turning on:If you find your lights flickering constantly, it means a bulb is loose or the wiring in your panel is faulty (don't fix it yourself!).
• Domestic uses:When your devices keep tripping.
• Reconnectable fuses:If your panel has rewireable ceramic fuses instead of circuit breakers, you need to upgrade the panel as soon as possible. Rewireable fuses contain copper wire and are a significant safety risk, so call an electrician as soon as possible.
• Electric shock:If you are electrocuted when you insert a plug into an outlet, your distribution panel may need an upgrade.
• spark - spark:If your power outlets spark when a plug is inserted, that's a sign that your electrical panel probably needs an upgrade.
• sounds:The power supply should not make any noise. Therefore, if you hear a buzzing or hissing noise, it should be checked by a professional as soon as possible, as it can be very dangerous.

This list is not exhaustive, so it's best to talk to them.Your local electricianwhen something happens that doesn't seem right. It is better to check and know if it is ok than to find out too late that there is a dangerous electrical problem.

Who performs a Switchboard upgrade?

First things first: a panel upgrade is not a Sunday afternoon DIY project! Panel upgrades must be performed by a properly licensed and qualified electrician. Doing electrical work on your panel is dangerous and should only be done by a professional, not only for safety reasons but also for insurance reasons. Plus, electricians have the right tools and equipment to get the job done right the first time, saving time and money in the long run. Talk to our team atstatic electricityat 1300 206 004 if you need help.

Are Switchboard upgrades expensive?

The answer to this question is not a one-size-fits-all solution – there are a number of factors that can affect the cost of a panel upgrade, including:

• Size:This is both the size of your current panel and the size of the panel update.
• Ability:This refers to the current capacity of the new substation.
• Cabling:The amount of cabling required to complete the upgrade.
• rewired:Do you need to rewire your home to complete the upgrade?
• Labor costs:Labor costs vary by order.

There are other factors that can affect cost as well (for example, if your house is already fully wired and ready for an upgrade, the cost will likely still be fairly low), but the above are the most common. Therefore, it's best to consult your local electrician, who can discuss your specific circumstances and provide you with an accurate quote for your switchboard upgrade.

It's worth noting that many households choose to put off upgrading their PBX, believing it to be too expensive (among other excuses). However, this is not the case: your safety and the safety of those around you are priceless, and an assistant upgrade is really an investment, not an expense. It's an investment in your safety and a way to avoid unnecessary problems like fire hazards and constant power outages instead of hurting your wallet.

Even if you have an electrician completing your panel upgrade, have them check the overall condition of your wiring. They can catch problems before they occur or before they become unmanageable, which helps in both the short and long term.

If you are based on the Sunshine Coast or Brisbane Northside and would like further assistance with upgrading your panel please speak to our friendly team at Static Electrics on 0488 849 241 and we will be happy to help.

Resources:

• hello pages:https://hipages.com.au/article/how_much_does_it_cost_to_replace_a_switchboard
• Build:http://www.build.com.au/switchboards-or-switch-boxes
• Squat:https://www.hunker.com/13401309/was-ist-die-funktion-einer-schalttafel