Tim’s biggest concern with old switchboards is the potential they have to start electrical fires or cause electrocution. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
If they don’t have too much stress placed upon them, old switchboards tend to go under the radar – until they don’t.
Any home built before the year 2000 is likely to have an outdated system. At best this costs you more in energy bills, but in the worst case scenario, old switchboards can cause a life-threatening electrical fire or serious electric shock.
Power outages, flickering lights and sizzling outlets are all telltale signs that your switchboard needs updating, but when a non-compliant model ticks away without much fuss, it can be tricky to know when it’s time for an upgrade.
The simplest way to check the age of your switchboard is to check for an installation date on the main panel. If there isn’t one, the safest course of action is to replace it anyway.
Tim Middleton, director of True Connection Electrical, has more than a decade in the industry. He’s seen his fair share of switchboards and has some tips for anyone who isn’t sure whether theirs is up to scratch.
“If your switchboard is made of wood or metal, has ceramic fuses or shows any signs of asbestos lining, it definitely needs to be replaced,” Tim says.
“Other red flags are regular power outages, a rusty, corroded or otherwise damaged panel, burning smells, buzzing or sizzling sounds and discolored outlets that are hot to the touch.
“If you notice any of these, shut off the power and call an electrician right away. Hopefully though, you have your old model replaced before this happens.”
From crowded and cracking to simple and streamlined – upgrades like this one can usually be completed within a day. Image: True Connection Electrical/Region.
RCD switches are the most important safety feature of modern switchboards. Sensitive circuit protection shuts off the main power supply in under a second if an electrical fault is detected, greatly reducing the risk of fire and electric shock.
Newer models also handle a large power load far better, which is ever important in modern homes.
“As we make more features and appliances in our houses electric – cooktops, climate control, EV chargers, pools and solar systems – we increase the power load on our switchboards.
“Older homes were designed to supply the essentials like dishwashers, washing machines and fridges. They can’t handle your oven, air conditioning and home cinema on top of everything else.”
A switchboard upgrade is usually fast and simple, and organising it is often as easy as sending your electrician a photo of the current system.
Your power may need to be turned off for the day while the old switchboard is removed and a new one fitted, but it’s usually an easy job.
“Not only will your home and everyone who lives in it be safer, you’ll have more efficient power, and it’s a great value add if you want to sell the house in the future,” Tim says.
“It’s important to note that how much an upgrade will cost varies case by case, so don’t be afraid to shop around for an electrician you trust who can provide an accurate, competitive quote.”
If your switchboard needs inspecting or replacing, get in touch with True Connection Electrical.
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