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July 3, 2025

Why Your Switchboard Might Be Outdated

Your switchboard is the control panel for all the electricity in your home. It keeps everything running safely—but older systems often aren’t built to handle the demands of modern households. If your home was built before the smart-tech era, it might be time to consider an electrical switchboard upgrade. Appliances like air conditioning, induction cooktops, home offices, and even smart home systems are placing more demand on your electrical system than ever before.

Older switchboards have very rudimentary circuit protection features, and no scope for future expansion.

Signs It’s Time For an Upgrade

Here are some of the most common signs that your switchboard and earthing system may need replacing:

  • Power cutting out when you run multiple appliances
  • The presence of old ceramic fuse holders, such as these

  • The presence of asbestos-containing materials, such as the black bituminous asbestos panel below

 

  • Electric “tingles” when touching taps, sinks, or metal-framed appliances – this is especially urgent as it can indicate issues with a poor-quality earth or neutral return conductor.

Case Study: Mr. W’s Switchboard Upgrade in Mount Waverley

When Mr. W reached out to us, his home in Mount Waverley was still running on an older-style switchboard. Like many Melbourne homes built before the smart-tech boom, it wasn’t keeping up with his needs—or modern safety standards.

Our team assessed the setup and recommended a complete switchboard upgrade to ensure his household was properly protected and future-ready.

We replaced the old unit with a brand new, modern switchboard that included individual safety switches (RCBOs) to protect every circuit in the home. We also installed a new earth electrode and main earth conductor. Many older homes rely on old copper piping as the main earth connection – this is no longer compliant with regulations, and cannot be trusted as the copper plumbing may have been cut or modified over the years.

While we were there, we also updated a few worn-out power points and switches, including a weatherproof one outside. Mr. W had a new electric cooktop ready to go, so we installed a dedicated feed from the switchboard along with an isolation switch to meet current electrical standards.

Once all the new components were safely in place, we arranged for an independent licensed electrical inspector to sign off on the work—something we do for every switchboard, mains, or main earth upgrade. Before leaving, our team tested all circuits, tidied up, and made sure everything was working exactly as it should.

“I feel much safer now. The O’Shea team were really professional and left the place spotless.” – Mr. W, Mount Waverley


Why Upgrading Matters

Upgrading your switchboard isn’t just about meeting code—it’s about protecting your home and your family. A modern switchboard:

  • Helps prevent fires caused by electrical faults
  • Protects against electric shock
  • Can safely handle modern appliances and future upgrades
  • Makes your home solar- and battery-ready
  • Gives you peace of mind with reliable power supply

Trusted Electricians in Melbourne – Available After Hours

At O’Shea Electrical, our experienced team of electricians in Melbourne has helped plenty of homeowners modernise their switchboards and ensure their homes are safe and future-ready. Whether you’re planning a renovation, upgrading appliances, or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.

We also offer after-hours electrical services for urgent faults or switchboard issues, so you’re never left in the dark when it matters most.

Contact the team at O’Shea Electrical today for a free quote.

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