How To Tell If You Should Upgrade Your Switchboard

Skilled have been electricians in Christchurch for many years, and when it comes to switchboards, we’ve seen it all. Any switchboard that is more than 25 years old should be replaced. If you’re unsure of the age of your current switchboard, it’s easy to find out – just look for the installation date on the main switchboard panel. If there is no date listed, it’s likely that your switchboard is quite old and needs to be replaced.

Here are just a few of the many reasons to upgrade your home’s switchboard:

1. Safety first

Your family’s safety should always be your top priority, and upgrading your switchboard is one of the best ways to safeguard them from electrical hazards. Older switchboards are often not equipped to handle the increased electrical load of modern homes, which can put your family at risk of electrical fires or shocks.

2. Save money

Upgrading your switchboard can actually save you money in the long run. Older switchboards are often less efficient, which means they can waste electricity and drive up your power bills. A newer, more energy-efficient switchboard can help you lower your monthly expenses.

3. Prevent power outages

If your home is constantly experiencing power outages, it could be a sign that your switchboard is outdated and needs to be replaced. A new switchboard will be able to handle the increased electrical load of your home and help prevent those annoying power outages.

4. Add value to your home

If you’re thinking of selling your home, upgrading your switchboard is a great way to add value. Potential buyers will be impressed by a home with a modern, up-to-date switchboard and may be willing to pay more for the property.

5. Modern appliances

As we increase the number of appliances and devices in our home, the load on power circuits also increases. Running computers, TVs, PS4s and charging multiple devices all off the same multi-board is potentially dangerous.

6. Peace of mind

Finally, upgrading your switchboard can give you peace of mind. Knowing that your home is safe from electrical hazards and that your family is protected will help you sleep better at night.

Upgrading your home’s switchboard is one of the most important electrical safety improvements you can make

If your home was built before 1987, it probably has an old-style fuse box with rewirable fuses. These are no longer up to New Zealand building code, and pose a serious fire risk.

If your home has a rewirable fuse box, you should upgrade to a new compliant switchboard as soon as possible. The cost of upgrading your switchboard will depend on the age and condition of your home, but is typically around $1,500 – $2,000.

Aside from age, there are a few other signs that indicate it’s time for an upgrade. If your switchboard is made of wood, metal or asbestos, it definitely needs to be replaced. These materials are outdated and no longer meet today’s safety standards.

Additionally, if your switchboard doesn’t have a residual current device (RCD), this is another clear sign that you need a new one. RCDs are critical for preventing electrocution and fires, so it’s important to make sure your switchboard has one.

If you’re unsure whether or not your switchboard needs to be replaced, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get it checked out. Skilled Electrical will be able to assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action. In most cases, it will be well worth it to replace an old and outdated switchboard rather than risk a dangerous accident.

Look out for these signs that you need to upgrade your switchboard:

  • There is evidence of rodents or other animals in your fuse box
  • Your electrical panel is rusty or corroded
  • Your breaker frequently trips
  • Your outlets are discolored or damaged
  • Flickering or dimming lights
  • A burning smell coming from the switchboard
  • Buzzing or sizzling sounds from your outlets or fuse box
  • Your outlets feel hot to the touch

Its time to upgrade your switchboard

While it may seem like a big investment, its important to remember that your switchboard is responsible for distributing electricity throughout your property. Its a crucial part of your electrical system, and it needs to be up to date in order to function properly.

A switchboard upgrade will not only protect your property from power outages and electrical fires, but it will also save you money in the long run. outdated electrical systems are often much less efficient than newer ones, so upgrading will actually help you to reduce your energy costs.

If you have any doubts about whether your switchboard needs to be upgraded, it‘s always better to err on the side of caution and call an electrician. They will be able to tell you for sure whether your switchboard needs to be replaced or not. It’s certainly not a DIY job.

 

About Skilled Electrical

Based in Bromley, Skilled Electrical are premier registered Christchurch Electricians working throughout Canterbury, who have great pride in their workmanship, level of professionalism & work ethic.

We come on time, get the job done, and leave no mess behind. Our pricing is always clear and transparent, and we guarantee the quality of our workmanship.

But did you know that, when it comes to solar energy, Skilled Electrical are one of the leading electrical companies in Christchurch?

We created our own solar energy company to meet this demand. Our solar energy company, Endless Energy provides personalised solar solutions and techniques for both commercial and residential needs. These are delivered by our skilled and qualified team of electricians and solar experts.

With Endless Energy we promise the best service and maintenance that the New Zealand solar industry has to offer.

Please call us on 033821668 or contact us if we can assist you in any way.

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