Switchboard Upgrade Specialists

Electrical Upgrade Wollongong

Your switchboard is the ‘central hub’ of your homes electrical system, however, just because your switchboard is out of sight doesn’t mean it should be out of mind. At Lana Tradie, we ensure your switchboard can safely, effectively and efficiently maintain everything that supports your lifestyle including lighting, appliances, hot water, solar and internet.

Whether you’re experiencing electrical problems in your home, or looking for a switchboard upgrade to meet the evolving needs of a growing family, we’re here to help. With decades of experience, our team of local and licensed technicians understand how to protect your home and your family.

We demonstrate attention to detail at all times and operate with complete transparency. From upfront and competitive prices to advice on the latest switchboard standards we’ll let you know exactly what is required in terms of upgrades so you won’t be left in the dark – literally. 

Why your home switchboard matters

Your switchboards distribute electricity throughout your home, ideally providing adequate service and circuit protection to seamlessly maintain your lifestyle and the health and safety of your family.

Why does this matter?

Because your switchboard performs a vital safety function and practical use. With a faulty or outdated switchboard, there’s no guarantee you can enjoy time in front of the TV, or use your kitchen appliances. And when handling a damaged or outdated switchboard, your health and safety becomes a serious risk.

If your Wollongong home was built around the 1990’s, chances are, its switchboard needs to be upgraded to power your modern lifestyle and protect your family. So that’s exactly what we’ll help you do.

Benefits of a switchboard upgrades

A switchboard is a device that allows the stable distribution of electricity around a building. It’s essential to invest in a reliable switchboard to ensure the safety of your loved ones and properties.

If your Wollongong home was built around the 1990s, chances are, its switchboard needs to be upgraded for the following reasons:

✔ Safety Switches

It’s crucial to fit out the circuit with a safety switch or residual current device (RCD) to protect you from electrical accidents. This device constantly monitors the current flow within the live and neutral wires that supply an electrical system. If an electrical fault is detected, it will shut off the power within 0.03 seconds.

Remember that you could come into contact with electricity at various places in your home; therefore, it’s crucial there a safety switch protects each circuit. Upgrading the switchboard is also a chance to protect multiple circuits that have grown over the years. Learn more about RCDs here.

✔ Reduce Risk of Electrocution

It’s crucial to fit out the circuit with a safety switch or residual current device (RCD) to protect you from electrical accidents. This device constantly monitors the current flow within the live and neutral wires that supply an electrical system. If an electrical fault is detected, it will shut off the power within 0.03 seconds.

✔ Save Time & Money

Older switchboards tend to be overcrowded and disorganised, increasing the likelihood of a malfunction. Between constant call-outs to your local Wollongong electrician and the risk of fire or damage, you can easily sink more time and money into an old switchboard than you’d like. Modern switchboards are more organised and safe, leading to less problems (and more money staying in your pocket).

✔ Comply With New Electrical Safety Requirements

The electrical safety standards and work practices in Australia have changed over the years. As a result, what was once considered safe may fall short of modern safety standards. When you upgrade your switchboard, you can rest easy knowing you’re complying with all safety standards.

✔ Cope With Today’s Power Demands

The number of electrical devices and equipment used at home has significantly increased in the past twenty years. Unfortunately, older switchboards cannot cope with the massive usage of modern homes, which can cause short circuits, flickering bulbs, damage to appliances, and fire.

According to Direct Appliance Rentals CEO Karina Wolfin.” The Australian Energy Statistics 2020 shows that energy consumption increased by 0.6% in 2018-2019. It reached 6,196 petajoules, which was the highest level ever. Unfortunately, this also means that older switchboards can never sustain the demand of an average household.”

✔ Remove Panels With Asbestos Content

Switchboards built or imported before 2004 may contain asbestos – with switchboards installed prior to 1990 highly likely to contain asbestos. Unsealed surfaces can expose harmful asbestos fibres that pose a significant threat to your health and safety. Our home switchboard upgrade service ensures you’re protected not just from electrocution, but harmful asbestos fibres too.

Here’s a guide on how to identify and manage asbestos presence in your home.

✔ Fewer Electrical Repairs

Older switchboards tend to cause frequent repairs, which can be costlier than an upgrade. Modern switchboards are equipped with circuit breakers and RCDs that minimise the chances of circuit trips. Investing in upgrading your switchboard is the secret to saving money in the long run.

✔ Organised Switchboard

Older switchboards tend to be overcrowded and disorganised, increasing the safety hazard. Modern switchboards are more organised, space-saving, and perceptible.

Is upgrading my switchboard the right move for me?

Are you looking to upgrade your appliances or add a new powerpoint to your home?

Older switchboards aren’t designed to meet the energy needs of modern NSW homes. Making the upgrade helps you align with Australian standards, and legally enable RCD protection in order to provide maximum safety for you, your family and your home.

Most of all, upgrading your switchboard means safety, safety, and more safety. When old switchboards become overloaded (a common occurrence) they place pressure on equally old fuses and wiring. So whether you’re trying to fix the problem yourself and placing yourself at risk of a shock, or your faulty components are increasing the risk of a fire, upgrading the switchboard is a small change for major peace of mind.

Looking to keep your home and family safe? Find out more about our electrical inspection services here

7 signs your switchboard needs upgrading

  1. Your indoor lights frequently dim or flicker
  2. Your home relies on fuses and a fuse panel
  3. Your switchboard uses old or faulty wiring
  4. You notice frequent burning or melting odours
  5. Your circuit breakers fail or trip regularly
  6. Your circuit breaker trip when you plug in an appliance
  7. You have a remodelling or renovation project on the horizon

How much does it cost to upgrade a switchboard?

There are many variables when it comes to existing switchboards and what is required to upgrade them including age, condition, whether or not it contains asbestos, size, rating, complexity, circuit protection and metering.  Therefore the cost to upgrade varies significantly.

We prefer to provide a free inspection in order to determine exactly what is required and develop a thorough quotation for your consideration.

When estimating an electrical job, you’ll need to ask your electrician or contractor for their callout fee and their hourly rate to get an accurate overall cost.  It’s also helpful to ask for a full quote that includes materials. This is the best way to arrive at an accurate figure without being stung by “surprise charges” or fees.