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0400 AMPERA (267 372)

Email
info@ampera.com.au

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Our Switchboard Upgrade Services - Sydney

✔ Safety Switch (RCD) Installation

✔ Old Fuse Box Replacement

✔ Meter Box Upgrades

✔ Full Switchboard Rewiring

✔ Surge Protection

✔ Fault Repairs & Tripping Circuits

 

Switchboard Upgrade Q&As

 

1. What is a switchboard upgrade and why do I need one?

A switchboard upgrade replaces old ceramic fuses or outdated breakers with a modern board that includes RCD safety switches. Upgrading improves safety, prevents electrical fires, stops circuits from overloading and ensures your wiring meets current Australian Standards. If your home is 20+ years old, it likely needs an upgrade.

2. How do I know if my switchboard is unsafe or outdated?

Common signs include:

  • Ceramic fuses instead of circuit breakers

  • Flickering lights or power dropouts

  • Frequent tripping

  • Buzzing switchboard or burnt smell

  • Overheating circuits

  • No safety switches (RCDs)
    If your board shows any of these, it should be inspected immediately.

3. How much does a switchboard upgrade cost in Sydney?

Basic switchboard upgrades start from $990, depending on:

  • Number of circuits

  • Condition of wiring

  • Size of the switchboard

  • Whether your meter box needs upgrading

  • If asbestos (Zelemite) backboard is present
    We provide upfront pricing before any work begins.

4. What is an RCD safety switch?

An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a safety switch that detects electrical faults and cuts power instantly to prevent electrocution or fire. All modern switchboards must have RCDs installed for every circuit. If your home only has old fuses, it is not compliant with current standards.

5. Can I install or upgrade a switchboard myself?

No — switchboard work is 100% illegal without a licensed electrician. It involves high-risk wiring, load balancing, safety protection installation and compliance testing. Only a qualified NSW electrician can legally carry out this work and issue a compliance certificate.

6. Will a switchboard upgrade stop my power from tripping?

Yes, in most cases. Frequent tripping is often caused by:

  • Overloaded circuits

  • Faulty appliances

  • Old fuse protection

  • Poor wiring
    A modern switchboard isolates faults properly and prevents constant outages.

7. How long does it take to upgrade a switchboard?

Most switchboard upgrades take 2–4 hours depending on the size and condition. Larger homes or units with poor wiring may take longer. Power will be briefly switched off during the upgrade.

8. Does my home need a switchboard upgrade for an EV charger or air conditioning?

In many cases, yes. EV chargers, induction cooktops, air conditioning systems and high-load appliances require dedicated circuits and a switchboard that can handle the electrical demand. We check your board before installation and recommend upgrades if needed.

9. Is an asbestos (Zelemite) backboard dangerous?

Yes — older switchboards are often mounted on Zelemite panels which contain asbestos. They must be tested and safely handled by licensed professionals. If your switchboard contains Zelemite, replacement is strongly recommended.

10. Do you provide certification after upgrading my switchboard?

Yes — all switchboard upgrades include:
✔ Compliance Certificate (CCEW)
✔ Testing & verification
✔ Load balancing
✔ Safety checks
✔ RCD installation
This ensures your home or business meets NSW electrical safety standards.

 

 

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