Your switchboard is the heart of your home’s electrical system, distributing power to various circuits and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
However, like any essential component, it requires regular maintenance to remain safe and efficient. Neglecting your switchboard can lead to electrical faults, power outages, and fire hazards. So, how often should you service your switchboard?
At Elevated Electrical, we are a family-owned local contracting business with over 16 years of experience. Whether minor or significant, residential or commercial, we excel at all electrical work. Read on to know all about servicing and maintaining your switchboards.
Why Upgrade Your Switchboard?
With advancing technology, our electrical consumption continues to grow. Older switchboards may struggle to keep up with modern energy demands, increasing the risk of electrical issues. Upgrading your switchboard ensures your home can safely and efficiently handle today’s power requirements.
The Recommended Frequency for Switchboard Servicing
For most homes, experts recommend servicing your switchboard every 2 to 5 years. The exact frequency depends on several factors, including the age of your electrical system, the type of switchboard you have, and any visible signs of wear or damage.
If your home is older and still has an outdated fuse box or ceramic fuses, it is better to inspect it frequently, as older switchboards pose a higher risk of electrical faults. On the other hand, modern switchboards with safety switches and circuit breakers require less frequent servicing, but that doesn’t exempt them from periodic checking to ensure they function correctly.
Proper maintenance helps increase the safety of you, your dear ones, and your property, along with increasing the lifespan of your switchboard. But how would you know whether your switchboard needs immediate attention? Let’s see!
Signs Your Switchboard Needs Immediate Attention
Even if your switchboard is within the recommended servicing timeframe, there are warning signs that indicate you need an inspection sooner:
- Frequent tripping of circuit breakers may indicate an overloaded circuit or a faulty switchboard.
- Flickering or dimming lights indicate that your switchboard may struggle to handle your home’s electrical load.
- A burning smell or scorch marks are clear warnings of overheating components that could lead to an electrical fire.
- Buzzing noises – A properly functioning switchboard should be silent. Unusual sounds could point to loose connections or faulty wiring.
- Older-style fuses instead of modern circuit breakers – If your home still has ceramic fuses, it’s time to upgrade.
If you see any warning signs, be sure to get in touch with a professional electrician as soon as possible. In case of an emergency, we provide 24-hour service. We are available all the time and can be reachable anytime.
Benefits of Regular Switchboard Servicing
Routine servicing of your switchboard ensures the safety and efficiency of your electrical system. Some key benefits include:
- Reduced fire risks
Electrical faults are one of the leading causes of house fires. A well-maintained switchboard helps prevent overheating and short circuits.
- Improved electrical efficiency
A faulty switchboard can cause inconsistent power supply and higher energy bills. Servicing helps maintain a steady flow of electricity.
- Compliance with safety regulations
Regular servicing ensures your home meets Australian electrical safety standards.
- Longer lifespan for appliances
A stable electrical supply protects your appliances from sudden power surges or voltage drops.
Should You Upgrade Your Switchboard?
If our electrician finds that your switchboard is outdated or has faulty wiring, they may recommend an upgrade instead of just servicing.
Homes with older fuse boxes or inadequate safety switches should consider a switchboard upgrade to meet modern safety standards.
Upgrading ensures your home can handle today’s electrical demands, especially if you’ve added high-power appliances like air conditioning, induction cooktops, or electric vehicle chargers.
Trusted, Professional and Efficient Solutions
Switchboard servicing is not something to overlook. Regular inspections help prevent costly repairs, electrical hazards, and power disruptions.
If it has been more than five years since your last switchboard check—or if you notice any warning signs—it’s time to call a licensed electrician for an inspection.
Prioritising switchboard maintenance will keep your home safe and your electrical system running smoothly for years.
Need a professional switchboard inspection? Contact Elevated Electrical today to book a service with our expert electricians!
