Expert and fully compliant switchboard upgrades that brings your installation up to meet the Current Australian Standards
Switchboard Upgrades
Ensure your safety by upgrading your outdated and hazardous switchboard with the help of our team of highly trained and licensed electricians. Don't take any risks – schedule your upgrade today!
✆ CALL 0432 145 674
When Should You Upgrade Your Current Switchboard Installation?
Are you still using an old fuse box or switchboard with porcelain fuses and unprotected circuits? If that's the case, your electrical system is likely unsafe and noncompliant with current regulations. If your fuse box also uses fuse wires, it's a good idea to consider upgrading to a modern switchboard with safety switches that provide RCD (residual current device) protection or RCBOs (residual current circuit breakers with overcurrent protection).
Having safety switches installed can be a life-saving measure in the event of a fault or power surge.
RCDs and RCBOs are designed to save lives.
Why is Electrical Safety So Important?
Safety Switches Minimise the Risk of Electrocution
It's important for every residential, commercial and office property to have safety switches dedicated to each circuit, to safeguard against electric shock. These switches constantly monitor the flow of current in the circuit they are installed in, and remain disengaged as long as the current flow is normal. If the switch detects a difference in power flow or a power surge, it is immediately activated, shutting off the power supply in .003 seconds. This instant response can save lives by preventing electrocution, as the power is quickly shut off upon contact with the electrical system.
Safety Switches Negate Fire Hazards
Upgrading your fuse box or switchboard is important because older models can create a fire hazard. Electrical fires can originate from your switchboard if the circuits overheat and lack protection.
Your switchboard could overheat due to various reasons, such as loose connections, overloading, excessive dust, and vermin infestations like ants. An overheated switchboard may not be detected by standard fire detection systems, such as smoke alarms, until there is too much smoke or an actual fire in the switchboard. However, if any circuits have safety switches, they will automatically shut down if overheating occurs, reducing the risk of a fire breaking out in the switchboard.
Old Switchboards or Fuse Boxes May Contain Asbestos
Until the 1980s, Australian switchboards were made with asbestos due to their ability to resist fires. However, asbestos is now a prohibited material because of its health risks. If you suspect that your current switchboard or fuse box contains asbestos, it's essential to have it replaced by a licensed electrician to ensure the safe removal of the substance. At KeenSpark Electrical, we have a robust safety system in place to handle asbestos and replace it with fire-resistant panelling. This is vital for the safety of your property and the health and well-being of its occupants.
Switchboard FAQ
Should You Replace Your Circuit Breakers With Safety Switches?
Fuses and circuit breakers function similarly, as they both identify a problem and cut off the circuit to halt the flow of electricity. However, they differ in the time it takes for them to respond, the types of faults that activate their response, and the type of protection they offer. A contemporary switchboard is made up of a combination of circuit breakers (RCBOs) and safety switches, which safeguard individual circuits from electric shocks, overloads, and shorts. Each circuit is equipped with an RCBO to restrict any issues to just that circuit. As a result, power failures and nuisances, such as tripping, will not affect all connected circuits, nor will they cut off the power supply to the entire building.
If your residence or commercial property’s switchboard still employs ceramic or plug-in fuses, upgrading your switchboard to comply with current regulations is necessary.
How Long Does It Take to Upgrade a Switchboard?
The duration of upgrading and replacing your current home switchboard with a safer and modern alternative typically takes around four hours. However, the specific time needed can vary based on the characteristics of the existing fuse box and switchboard, which may differ from property to property. The duration can also vary between commercial and residential properties.
How Does a Safety Switch Detect a Problem In the Circuit?
The safety switch is designed to constantly monitor the flow of electrical current. If there is a fault in the circuit or if the current starts to flow into a person instead of the intended equipment or circuit, the safety switch will detect the change and immediately activate. This causes the circuit to shut down instantly, preventing any potential harm or damage.