Most people do not think about their switchboard unless something starts going wrong. Maybe your power keeps cutting out for no clear reason. Maybe your lights flicker when you switch on the microwave. Or maybe you have an old fuse box, and you are wondering if it is still safe.
A bad switchboard does not always fail dramatically. It can sit there quietly, getting hotter than it should, struggling with modern electrical loads, or putting extra strain on your circuits. If you ignore the warning signs, you could end up dealing with electrical fires, damage to your appliances, or a complete power failure when you least expect it.
So, how do you know if it is time to upgrade? Here is what to look out for.
Your Power Trips All the Time
A circuit breaker tripping occasionally is not a big deal—that is what it is supposed to do. But if it happens regularly, there is a problem.
If you notice that your power cuts out when you turn on too many appliances, your switchboard might be overloaded. Older switchboards were never designed to handle today’s electrical demands. If yours is struggling, it is only going to get worse over time.
Flickering or Dimming Lights When Using Other Appliances
If your lights dim when you turn on a heater or air conditioner, that is not just a quirk of your home. It usually means your switchboard is struggling to distribute power properly.
This is common in older homes and buildings where the electrical system was designed for a much lower power load. A modern switchboard upgrade can fix this by properly balancing circuits and preventing voltage drops.
You Still Have a Fuse Box Instead of Circuit Breakers
If your switchboard still has ceramic fuses, it is outdated.
The problem with ceramic fuses is that they do not shut off power as quickly as modern circuit breakers. They also need to be replaced manually when they blow, which is a hassle. More importantly, they do not have built-in safety switches, which means there is a higher risk of electrocution or fire if something goes wrong.
A switchboard upgrade replaces these old fuses with circuit breakers and safety switches that react instantly when there is a fault.
Your Switchboard Makes Strange Noises or Smells
A switchboard should be silent. If you hear buzzing, crackling, or hissing sounds, that means something is wrong.
Loose wiring, overheating components, or failing breakers can all cause these noises. If you also notice a burning smell coming from the switchboard, turn off your power immediately and call an electrician. That is a serious fire risk.
Your Home or Business Has More Electrical Demand Than Before
Electrical systems are not just about what is installed when a building is built. They need to keep up with new demands.
If you have added air conditioning, extra lighting, new appliances, or office equipment, your old switchboard might not be handling the extra load well. If you are running multiple power boards because you do not have enough outlets, that is another sign your system needs an upgrade.
Power Points Feel Warm, or Sparks Fly When Plugging Something In
If your power points are warm to the touch, that means there is too much current running through the circuit. Overheating circuits are one of the main causes of electrical fires.
Sparks when plugging something in are another warning sign. This means there could be loose wiring, worn-out connections, or a failing switchboard. None of these should be ignored.
No Safety Switches on Your Switchboard
Modern switchboards come with RCD safety switches that instantly cut power if they detect an electrical fault. This prevents electrocution and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
If your switchboard does not have safety switches, your building is at a higher risk. Installing them is one of the best things you can do for electrical safety.
Your Power Bills Are Higher Than Expected
Old switchboards can be inefficient. If your electricity bills seem to be going up even though your usage has not changed, your electrical system might not be running as efficiently as it should.
An upgraded switchboard ensures your power is being used properly, reducing wasted electricity and unnecessary strain on your system.
You Are Planning to Sell or Rent Out Your Property
If you are selling your home or leasing out a commercial space, an outdated switchboard can be a major issue.
Buyers and renters look for modern electrical systems that meet safety standards. If an inspection finds an old fuse box or unsafe wiring, it could delay the sale or even lower the value of your property.
Why a Switchboard Upgrade Matters
A failing switchboard does not always show obvious signs right away. But over time, an old or overloaded switchboard can cause serious problems.
Upgrading your switchboard ensures:
✔ Better safety with modern circuit protection
✔ Reliable power distribution that does not overload circuits
✔ Lower risk of electrical fires and electrocution
✔ Compliance with current electrical standards
At Elevated Electrical & Automation, we provide professional switchboard upgrades for homes and businesses across Newcastle and surrounding areas. If you are unsure whether your switchboard is up to the job, we can assess it and recommend the best solution.
Think Your Switchboard Might Be Outdated?
If you have noticed any of these warning signs, do not wait until something goes seriously wrong. A switchboard upgrade is one of the best investments you can make in electrical safety.
Need an expert opinion? Contact us today for a professional assessment.
