Signs You Need a Switchboard Upgrade and Why It Matters

Your switchboard is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It distributes power to every circuit in the house and is designed to keep your property and your family safe. But if your switchboard is outdated, overloaded, or non-compliant, it could be putting you at serious risk.

Here’s how to tell if your switchboard needs an upgrade, and why it’s one of the most important improvements you can make to your home.

Your Switchboard Has Ceramic Fuses

If your home still uses ceramic fuses, it’s a strong indication that your electrical system is outdated. These older systems weren’t designed to handle today’s electrical demands and don’t offer the same level of protection.

Modern switchboards come with RCD safety switches, which shut off power within milliseconds if a fault is detected, reducing the risk of electric shock and fire dramatically.

You’ve Added New Appliances or Renovated

Have you recently added an air conditioner, electric hot water system, induction cooktop, or renovated your home? These additions increase the load on your electrical system.

If your switchboard hasn’t been upgraded to match your current energy use, you could experience overheating, nuisance tripping, or even electrical fires.

Lights Flicker or Circuits Keep Tripping

If your lights flicker when appliances turn on or you’re constantly resetting circuit breakers, your switchboard may be overloaded or deteriorating.

This isn’t just annoying - it’s a warning sign! These symptoms often point to a system that’s struggling to cope, which could eventually lead to complete electrical failure or safety hazards.

You Notice a Burning Smell or Discolouration

A burning smell near the switchboard, black marks, or melted cables are urgent signs that your system is overheating.

In this case, you should turn off your power immediately and call a licensed electrician. These are serious red flags that indicate a high fire risk.

No RCD Safety Switches

Under current Australian regulations, safety switches are a legal requirement in modern homes. If your switchboard doesn’t include RCDs, it’s likely non-compliant and unsafe.

Upgrading ensures you're not only meeting current electrical standards but protecting your household from the risks of electric shock or fire.

So WHY IS IT WORTH UPGRADING?

A switchboard upgrade isn’t just about meeting regulations, it’s about ensuring your entire electrical system can safely support the way we live today. Many older homes were built in a time when the electrical load was much lighter - a few lights, maybe a fridge, and a TV. Fast forward to today, and households are running multiple high powered appliances, charging devices in every room, and even installing electric vehicle chargers or solar systems. Your switchboard is what manages and distributes all that electricity, and if it’s outdated, it simply can’t keep up. Upgrading your switchboard means you’re protecting your home from faults that could cause serious damage or injury. It gives your system room to grow, ensures your safety switches and breakers are working as they should, and lays a solid foundation for any future electrical work.


Need a Switchboard Upgrade?

- Fully licensed & insured
- Prompt, professional service
- Clear pricing with no hidden costs

Call us today or request a free quote online to book your switchboard upgrade.