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Sutherland Shire Switchboard Services
Are you looking for a Switchboard Upgrade or Switchboard Repair Electrician in Sutherland Shire? Book Online or Call 0423 562 257 for 24hr Emergency & Same Day Service in the Sutherland Shire.
Switchboard Upgrade
Our Switchboard Upgrade Sutherland Shire service involves the removal of existing fuses and replacement with RCD Safety Switches.
Switchboard Repair
If you have an electrical concern with your switchboard, contact our Switchboard Repair Electrician for a free expert inspection for switchboard repairs.
24hr Emergency Electrical Box Service
If you have experienced a sudden loss of power or have burning in your switchboard, contact us immediately for emergency switchboard repairs.
Fuse Box Upgrade
Does your home have an old and outdated Fuse Box? Our Fuse Box Upgrade Sutherland Shire service replaces your porcelain ceramic fuses with new RCD Safety Switches.
Fuse Box Repair
Our Fuse box repair service caters for the repair of any fuse issues including burning smells, smoking fuses and power outages.
RCD Safety Switches
Our expert switchboard electricians provide RCD Safety Switch Installations all across the Sutherland Shire and Sydney. Residual Current Devices protect against electrocution & overloading.
24 Hour Emergency Fuse Box Repair
We are available 24hrs to respond to your after hours electrical box emergency
About True Local Electricians Sutherland Shire
Anthony (Business Owner & Head Electrician) holds over 15 years of electrical experience in the Sutherland Shire and is regarded as an expert in his field. Supported by a team of fully qualified electricians, True Local Electricians Sutherland Shire have accumulated over 150+ 5 star Google Reviews, and have been awarded Local Business Awards Finalists in 2021, 2022 & 2023.
True Local Electricians Sutherland Shire provide all Electrical Box & Fuse Box services across the Sutherland Shire local government area. Your Sutherland Shire home’s switchboard is the center of your homes electrical system, and plays a very important role in ensuring your electrical safety. The power comes into your switchboard either overhead or underground from the street. It then distributes this power throughout all of the areas of your home. The switchboard is made up of different circuits which are controlled by safety switches, circuit breakers(or MCB’s) or fuses. If your switchboard still has the old style porcelain fuses or circuit breakers, we do recommend a switchboard upgrade as it is definitely a safety concern.
FREE Switchboard Safety Inspections
Switchboard Upgrade Sutherland Shire
The switchboard controls how all of the electricity is routed throughout your home, ensuring power can reach all areas of your home. However, the switchboards of the past weren’t designed to accommodate the higher electricity needs of modern appliances, as the technology didn’t exist at the time. If you have old & obsolete ceramic fuses, you may need a switchboard upgrade or repair to ensure your home electrics are compliant with modern standards. At True Local Electricians are experts in upgrading switchboards of the past which contain porcelain ceramic fuses and circuit breakers to individual RCD/RCBO safety switches. Alternatively if you have an upgraded switchboard which is giving you issues, we can perform electrical switchboard fault repairs.
What Gets installed during a Switchboard Repair or Upgrade
NSW Meter Box & Bakelite Panel
Domestic Meterbox enclosure which complies with the NSW supply authority rules and regulations. Our Meterbox’s are designed for both single and multi-phase installations, with a Bakelite fire proof panel.
Meter Protection Device (MPD)
In most residential homes we install 80amp council service fuses.
Main Switch
The Main switch exists as a main control piece over your entire switchboard, once int the off position, the flow of electricity through your home will stop. The main switch provides two main functions – to protect your switchboard against potential overload, and protection against short circuit. For most residential homes, the main switch ill be rated at 63amps. If your main switch is rated any bigger or smaller it could cause a hazardous situation. Your main switch is always located on the left hand side of your switchboard and will be the first switch in the series. If you do not have a main switch on your switchboard, your switchboard does not meet AS3000 Australian electrical standards and is a dangerous hazard.
RCD / RCBO – Residual Current Device / Residual Current Device Overload
An RCD has one function where by it protects and detect the circuit of any earth leakage currents in your homes electricity circuits. In other words, an RCD is protecting you against a fatal electric shock when coming into contact with exposed electric wires or copper piping. On the other hand, an RCBO provides two functions – it will protect you against earth leakage currents but will also protect the circuit in the event of an overload fault on your switchboard. An overload fault has the potential to occur when you have to too many appliances or devices running on the one safety switch which is protecting your appliances from burn out and catching fire. RCD’s & RCBO’s are usually rated from 6 to 40 amps.
Below are typical amp requirements to expect on common circuits:
6 – 10 amps – lighting
16 – 20 amps – power sockets
20 – 25 amps – oven
32 – 40 amps – cook-top/stove
All new switchboard installations in the Sutherland Shire since 2019 must be build according to the Australian standards. This Act states that all newly installed switchboard upgrades must have RCD’s & RCBOs installed on all individual circuits.
MCB/Circuit Breakers
Any switchboards that needs MCB’s or circuit breakers replaced, must be replaced with an RCBO or RCD. It is no longer legal to install an MCB or circuit breaker on your main power & lighting circuits – it is a requirement for all new switchboard upgrades which True Local Electricians to be on a RCBO or RCD fitted to protect you against electric shocks and overloads.
Switchboard Repair Sutherland Shire
24hr Fuse Box Emergency Electrician
We are available 24/7 for all switchboard repairs in the Sutherland Shire. The most common issue which our 24hr Emergency Electricians get called out for in the Sutherland Shire is the failure of Ceramic Fuses. Ceramic Fuses can present a fire hazard with modern day electrical demands, and as such should be replaced. If you have Porcelain Fuse’s in your switchboard you should upgraded as soon as possible.
Other Switchboard Emergencies:
- Power Outages or Lost Power to some circuits in your home
- Your electrical switchboard causing concern
- Smokey smell coming from your switchboard or Power Point
- Flickering lights
- Crackling noises from your fuse box
- Sparking from your Switchboard or Power Outlet
Common Switchboard Repair & Upgrade Reasons
You should consider having your Switchboard inspected and upgraded is it contains any of the following:
Porcelain Ceramic Fuses
The dangers of ceramic fuses can be quite hazardous and some Sutherland Shire homes today still have these old hazardous fuses protecting their homes. These type of fuses only protect against short circuit and overload protection and do NOT protect against electric shock which can be fatal to the home occupants. They have a metal element which is has a small piece of wire wrapped around two screws and will heat up and melt when the circuit draws to much current from appliances or devices on an overload fault. When short circuit occurs the wire should break immediately and disconnect the circuit therefore cutting your power. Using oversized wire on a circuit could become catastrophe causing damage to your electrical wiring and even starting a fire. Some fuse sizes will be different and the correct wire size must be used and installed by True Local Electricians Sutherland Shire. Over time as ceramic fuses age and become brittle, hot joints will form and loose connections will start appearing on the switchboard leading to power failure or even fire damage to your electrical circuits and home. Your switchboard is a very important part of your home and should be upgraded before its too late. Other hazards to look out for are signs of black smoldering or any melting around the ceramic fuse and cabling entering the fuse holder. If black smolder marks are present in any of your home wiring then you should consider having your switchboard upgraded immediately to safety switches which will provide you with protection. With modern appliances requiring more power draw wattage, your old switchboard was never equipped to deal with the new power consumption demands and over time new appliances will trip, overload and possibly short circuit resulting in damaged cabling which will add to your repair costs.
Plug-In Fuses
These are equally hazardous! Plug-in fuse’s are a silly step up invention from the ceramic fuse that allow you to easily switch back on the circuit when a fault occurs – which does not fix the problem. But like the ceramic fuse the plug-in fuse will only give you short circuit protection and overload protection which will provide limited protection to your home. The safest option is to have your switchboard upgraded knowing you have RCDs & RCBOs installed that will protect you and your family from a fatal electric shock.
Fuse Box Asbestos Panels
Old switchboards installed in the Sutherland Shire before 1987 will have the hazardous asbestos boards commonly used for mounting switches and fuses on and will be normally housed and recessed into the side wall of your house. They have a strong tar smell when tampered with and are dark brown or black in colour. The boards will most probably be stamped with their brand names labelled on either the front or the back of the board, such names will be either, lebah, zelemite or asbestos. We highly recommend that these panels be replaced when upgrading your switchboard, any tampering with the board will become a health risk as any fibers released into the air will increase the chances of inhalation. Additionally if you require a switchboard repair in the future you can keep the electrician and you safe by removing the asbestos preemptively. If the backing of your switchboard is made out of asbestos or wood then this can be a serious electrical safety risk. The chances of a fire or short out in the fuse box are significantly greater if the material are combustible and not up to today requirements. Asbestos switchboard are also hazardous to inhale, so keep your family, pets and others away from it until replaced. In this scenario us is recommended to get a whole new switchboard if you have an asbestos backing switchboard as most electricians are unable to work on these due to insurance.
No room left in your Switchboard
If there is no more room in your switchboard or fuse box, and you can’t add additional circuits or RCD’s, you may need to upgrade. Most common scenarios are needing more room to accommodate solar power panel installation, as when you install solar you need an additional meter fitted from your energy retailer.
Switchboard needs to be relocated
If you are doing home renovations you will need to get your switchboard moved. This can be quite a big task and you are best to get a professional electrician to come and provide you with a FREE quote and give you direction on how to move your switchboard in the most cost effective way possible. While in the process of relocating the switchboard you should consider renewing the electrical wiring so it is up to the latest AS3000 code and most importantly safe.
Flickering Lights
Do your Lights Flicker or have you noticed the lighting socket is Black/Brown when you remove the old incandescent globe? You may have fluctuation in voltage issues which you need to have inspected. Over time your voltage is increased by your supply authority making it much harder for your old switchboard to handle the changes. Adding safety switches will prevent this problem and make you and your home safer and AS3000 compliant.
Electrical Renovations & Added Electricity Demand
If you are performing renovations to your home and you are adding appliances which are increasing the power load, you should consider upgrading your switchboard to meet the electricity requirements of your new appliances. New appliances include air conditioning, pool pumps, pool heaters, granny flat etc.
Switchboard Repair Safety Devices
RCD Safety Switch Installation
Safety switches go above and beyond the safety capabilities of switchboards and surge protectors. These devices monitor the power flowing through the cable and shut it down if there is any fluctuation. This can protect you from electric shock in the event that you drop your hair dryer in the sink, cut through a wire with an electric saw or otherwise expose yourself to the risk of shock. The safety switch will shut down the power to that particular power point immediately so that you don’t get shocked. Safety switches are a must have to provide you and your appliances with the best protection.
Surge Protectors
Power surges can happen from time to time, and they can wreak havoc on your electronics, even frying them from the inside in extreme cases. Surge protectors protect your appliances by absorbing any sudden increases of power, then redistributing it as needed. This way, your electronics receive a stable amount of electricity, even when there is a surge in the system. As such a faulty surge protector is a serious electrical issue which must be addressed rapidly. At True Local Electricians we carry out forms of switchboard repair and upgrades meaning we can get your surge protector back up and running quickly and affordably.
Best Switchboard Electrician Sutherland Shire
We pride ourselves on providing the things that matter when you are in an electrical emergency:
- Specialist knowledge in Switchboards locally in the Sutherland Shire
- Fast rapid response time to get your power back on ASAP
- Availability 24/7
- Qualified, Licensed & Insured
- Affordable electrical solutions & Seniors Discounts
What is a RCD Safety Switch?
RCD Safety switches provide two functions – they protect against potentially fatal electric shocks, and protect your electrical wiring against overloading which can cause melting and fires. RCD Safety switches are mandated for all new builds in the Sutherland Shire. If you have an existing home, it is compulsory to upgrade to RCD safety switches if you are altering an existing circuit. RCD Safety switches are compulsory for rental properties in post states, except for NSW where they are “Highly Recommended”
Why is my RCD Safety Switch tripping?
RCD Safety Switches trip or turn off because they have detected a fault on the circuit in which they are installed. The most common issue which causes a constantly tripping safety switch is a faulty appliance. Other reasons you may experience tripping is faulty or damaged wiring, or water getting into a light fitting or power point wiring. You may require an electrician to perform fault finding to find the cause of the issue. Call True Local Electricians for same day emergency electrician service in the Sutherland Shire.
When Do I Need A Switchboard Upgrade?
We recommend upgrading your fuse box or switchboard if you have porcelain ceramic fuses or plug in circuit breakers. Signs of switchboard issues include a burning smell, making a crackling noise, or if your lights are flickering. Outdated ceramic fuses are no longer used and deemed unsafe to cope with modern day power hungry appliances. If your breakers and switches are tripping, sparking, have melted wires and black burns – In these circumstances you should upgrade your switchboard to protect your home from fires and electric shocks.
Do you offer Free Fuse Box Safety Inspections?
Yes, True Local Electricians will provide you with a FREE switchboard electrical safety inspections to your Sutherland Shire home. Our service ensures you have a 24/7 safe household which caters for all modern day appliances.
I Smell Electricity Burning, What Should I Do?
If you smell electricity burning it could be the sign of a serious issue. You should contact our 24/7 emergency electrician service immediately. A burning smell can be cased from a faulty appliance, faulty circuit breakers, loose wires, hot joints, or overloaded and old wires.
Why is my Switchboard making a Crackling noise?
Crackling sounds from a switchboard are a sign of a hot join which is a serious issue which could lead to a fire. We suggest immediately phoning our 24hr Emergency Electrician hotline on 0423 562 257 to have the issue rectified.
How Long Will It Take For An Emergency Electrician To Arrive At My Sutherland Shire House?
We have emergency electricians based in our Caringbah head office and ready to rapidly be dispatched to on the same day. It may be a good idea to familiarize yourself with the SES’s top electrical safety tips if you have an electrical emergency while you await our emergency electricians.
Why Are My Lights Flickering?
If you have lights which are continuously flickering this may be due to a loose connection, loose bulb, or a voltage increase to your lighting. This electrical fault will require a free inspection from our qualified electricians.
What Is The Difference Between A Fuse Box And Switchboard?
A fuse box is an old term for a homes switchboard which contains porcelain ceramic fuses. A fuse box should be upgraded to a new switchboard which has the latest RCD safety switches that provide protection against electric shocks and overloading leading to fires and cables melting. A switchboard can also be known as a “safety box”. Both are designed to protect you from electrical shocks and hazards. If you are having issues with your fuse box, please get in touch with us for a free quote to upgrade to a new switchboard.
How Much Does a Switchboard Upgrade Cost?
Many factors come into play when upgrading your Sutherland Shire house’s switchboard. The type of dwelling you have – apartment or house, how many circuits are in your old switchboard, is your installation single phase or 3 phase supply, are the fuses mounted on the asbestos black panel and will your service meters or fuses need to be disconnected. All these factors will have a part to play in the cost of your switchboard upgrade. A switchboard upgrade in a Sutherland Shire apartment will cost less than a house as it’s smaller and will require less power. The more circuits you have, the higher the cost will be, more circuits more RCBOs. How many service fuses do you have, 3 phase or 1 phase and you guessed it 3 phase will cost more. Removing the old asbestos panels will increase the cost as well as removing any metering or service fuses. Switchboard upgrades costs depend on the number of circuits your home has, and how many phases your electrical supply is. Switchboard Upgrades can cost between $800 to $2,500.
When should a Fuse Box be replaced?
If your home was constructed more than 40yrs ago you will most likely have obsolete ceramic fuses in your fuse box. Your home is not complaint with modern day standards AS3000 and will require replacement to avoid the risk of electric shock and fire.
Is It Illegal Not to Have a Safety Switches?
In NSW, all new buildings are expected to have safety switches mounted, and switches must be added if extensions or modifications are done to an existing building. Rental properties in QLD and VIC must have Safety Switches mounted, and in NSW it is strongly recommended to do so. In some States and Territories, they are a prerequisite before selling or leasing a house.
Regardless of the state, when any electrical work is performed on a premise and load on a circuit is altered, a safety switch must be installed. Always seek a professional opinion from your electrician prior to repairs or extensions.
What are common Fuse Box problems?
Common electrical hazards and power failures we see are:
- Switchboard Power Outages
- Overloaded power points and sparking sockets
- Blown fuses, burning smells and consumer main faults
- Power surges from storms & lightning strikes to faulty wiring
- Tripped circuit breakers & tripping safety switches
- Electrical cable which is damaged, corroded, loose, chewed by pets or burned
