Does Your Perth Home Need A Switchboard Upgrade?

Your switchboard controls the flow of electricity throughout your home, from lighting and power outlets to major appliances. Over time, older switchboards can become unsafe or struggle to keep up with modern technology demands. In addition, an outdated system can increase the risk of electrical faults, tripping circuits, or even fire hazards. So, if you're planning renovations, installing new appliances, or experiencing frequent power issues, it may be the right time to upgrade your switchboard. As such, a qualified Perth electrician can assess your setup and ensure everything is safe and compliant. Common Signs Your Switchboard Needs Upgrading Clear warning signs suggest your current setup is no longer suitable. These include: Frequent tripping of circuit breakers Flickering lights or power surges Overheating or buzzing sounds from the switchboard Lack of safety switches A burning smell near the switchboard If your home still uses ceramic fuses or lacks Residual Current Device (RCD) protection, it’s time to act. These outdated systems were never meant to support modern appliances or high energy demands. So, an electrical switchboard upgrade improves safety and ensures your system meets current Australian electrical standards. Safety Risks of Keeping an Outdated Switchboard An outdated switchboard increases the risk of electrical fires, shocks, and appliance damage. Without proper circuit protection, your home could be vulnerable to electrical faults. Older fuse boxes also lack isolation capabilities, making repairs or upgrades more hazardous for electricians. For example, if your system doesn't have RCDs, there’s no safeguard to cut power during a fault. RCDs are now legally required in most Australian homes to protect occupants from electrocution. With a licensed Perth electrician, it can assess your current setup, identify safety concerns, and recommend an appropriate switchboard upgrade to meet modern safety standards. How Switchboard Upgrades Improve Safety and Performance A modern switchboard includes circuit breakers, RCDs, and clearly labelled circuits, making it safer and more efficient. These features allow a licensed electrician to isolate and service specific areas of the home without shutting down the entire system. In addition to that, circuit breakers automatically cut power during overloads or short circuits, reducing fire and shock risks. An upgrade also supports future electrical needs by providing space for additions like solar panels, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, or air conditioning units. For growing households or renovated properties, a switchboard upgrade ensures your electrical system stays safe, compliant, and capable of handling today’s power demands. Compliance with Australian Standards Upgrading your switchboard ensures your home complies with current Australian electrical safety standards. These regulations evolve to protect homeowners from fire risks, electric shocks, and system overloads as technologies change. Homes that don't meet these standards may face insurance complications or reduced resale value. Fortunately, a licensed Perth electrician can assess your current setup and complete the upgrade in accordance with AS/NZS 3000:2018, also known as the Wiring Rules. This ensures that every component is installed properly, providing safer, more reliable power distribution throughout your home. What to Expect During a Switchboard Upgrade The process begins with an inspection of your current system. The electrician will assess circuit load, look for non-compliant components, and plan for required upgrades. Typical steps include: Removal of outdated fuse boxes Installation of modern circuit breakers Integration of RCD safety switches Labelling and circuit isolation Load balancing for efficiency Provision for future expansion The work usually takes half a day to a full day, depending on the size and complexity of your electrical setup. Plus, the power to your home is turned off during this time, so it’s important to plan accordingly. How to Choose a Qualified Electrician in Perth When searching online for "electric service near me", don’t settle for the cheapest option. Look for a local provider with a strong track record, proper licensing, and experience with residential switchboard upgrades. So, it’s best to check for verified reviews, workmanship warranties, and aftercare services. After all, powerboard upgrades are not a one-size-fits-all job, as every home’s power usage and plans are different. That said, a reputable electrician will tailor the upgrade to your current and future needs, ensuring lasting safety and performance. Make Your Home Safer With a Professional Upgrade A modern switchboard protects your home from electrical faults, supports new appliances, and complies with evolving safety standards. Older systems often struggle with today’s energy demands, and warning signs like flickering lights, tripped breakers, or blown fuses. These issues can indicate serious underlying issues. So, upgrading your switchboard helps prevent these risks while improving energy efficiency and preparing your home for future technologies. If you notice signs of an overloaded or outdated switchboard, don’t wait for a major issue to occur. With SolArk Electrical, we can help you with our professional, compliant switchboard upgrades that meet the highest industry standards. In fact, our Perth electricians are licensed, experienced, and ready to provide tailored solutions that ensure the safety and efficiency of your home. For more information, visit our website today! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) If you want to learn more about upgrading your home's switchboard, check out these details! What is a switchboard? A switchboard is a panel that distributes electricity from the main supply to various circuits in a building. It houses safety devices like circuit breakers and RCDs. What is the lifespan of a switchboard? The average lifespan of a switchboard is around 20-30 years. However, it may need upgrading sooner if it shows signs of wear or no longer meets safety standards.