Switchboards are an essential part of any home’s electrical system. They regulate the flow of electricity throughout the house, acting as the main control centre. When they aren’t working correctly, it can lead to a number of dangerous outcomes. Auckland Electrician Shaun Headington says “Recently, we have been called out to quite a few electrical repair jobs that have been potential fire hazards. Old Switchboards are dangerous and new RCD Switchboards are so much safer.”
Why Should I Upgrade My Switchboard?
As appliances and technology become more prevalent in our homes, older switchboards are no longer able to manage the workload that our electrical systems face.
In modern households, a fridge, washing machine, and television are no longer the only appliances. Numerous other electrical devices are now considered essential, including heat pumps, gaming consoles, and high-powered kitchen appliances.
Due to the additional strain on our electrical systems, upgrading your switchboard to one that complies with current electrical regulations is necessary to improve your home’s electrical safety. Avoid costly electrical repairs and fire hazards by upgrading your switchboard today.
How Do I Know If I Need To Upgrade?
In order to prevent putting your family at risk, you should evaluate whether your switchboard needs to be upgraded. It is easy to spot an outdated switchboard by checking the obvious signs.
- Flickering lights
- Short-circuiting appliances
- Fuses keep blowing
- Powerpoints are discoloured or hot to touch
- Buzzing or sizzling noises
- Sparks when plugging in appliances
- Electric shocks when plugging in appliances
- Living in an older home
If any of these situations apply to your home, you should get in touch with a qualified electrician for a switchboard assessment ASAP!
What Are The Options?
For consumers who are seeking the best option for their home, we recommend RCD Switchboards, which provide the highest levels of electrical safety.
A residual current device, or RCD, is designed to prevent you from getting a fatal electric shock if you touch something live, such as a bare wire. They can also help prevent electrical fires in your home.
If an RCD detects electricity flowing through an unintentional path, such as through a person or a defective appliance, it will cut the circuit off very quickly, reducing the risk of death, injury, or fire. The device monitors incoming and outgoing current and trips when there is an imbalance.
Why wait until something goes wrong? If you are concerned that your switchboard may need an upgrade, contact a local qualified electrician for an assessment today. Getting your switchboard assessed could help you avoid costly electrical repairs and dangerous malfunctions.
Auckland residents can take advantage of free assessments from trusted Auckland Electricians, RLM Electrical.
