Flickering lights, tripped breakers or a burning smell near your fuse box? That’s not a DIY problem-it’s a safety risk. We often see people delay the fix, but old switchboards aren’t built for today’s power demands.
Think of your switchboard like the brain of your electrical system. It controls everything that flows through your home. But many still run on outdated parts that struggle under modern loads, such as ducted air conditioning, EV chargers, or intelligent systems.
If you’re a safety-conscious property owner, this matters more than ever. At I&B Electrical, we help you upgrade safely, with licensed care and clear advice every step of the way.
Why Do You Need a Switchboard Upgrade?
Many homes still rely on electrical systems installed decades ago. These setups can’t handle today’s high-tech home loads. An upgrade improves safety and ensures compliance with Australian standards.
Signs of an Outdated or Unsafe Switchboard
If you hear buzzing, smell something burning, or your lights flicker, your switchboard might be struggling. Frequent tripping or limited circuits are signs that your system is outdated and may be unsafe.
Common Scenarios Requiring Upgrades
Installing solar, renovating, or adding heavy appliances all push your system to its limits. Homes with EV chargers or undergoing sale or insurance checks often need switchboard improvements, too.
Safety and Compliance Concerns
Electrical laws have tightened to protect homeowners from fire and electrocution risks. Upgrading ensures your switchboard meets these safety requirements and remains legally compliant.
Benefits of a Switchboard Upgrade
Upgrading isn’t just about compliance-it pays off in quality of life, smoother operation, and peace of mind. Let us share the clearest benefits we see every day in homes across Melbourne.
Improved Safety and Functionality
New switchboards come with safety switches, fast-acting circuit breakers, and built-in surge protection. They manage electricity properly and shut off immediately when a fault occurs, keeping your home safe.
Supporting Modern Energy Demand
Modern homes use more devices than ever-TVs, washers, kitchen gear, and charging stations. Upgrades give your setup the capacity to run all of them without overload or blackouts.
Future-Proofing and Property Value
Energy-ready switchboards attract buyers who value safe, smart-ready homes. They also help when installing tech-based solutions or monitoring power usage in real time.
What Does a Switchboard Upgrade Involve?
Our process at I&B Electrical is clear, simple, and worry-free. We handle everything, so you don’t have to lift a finger. Here’s what to expect when upgrading with our licensed team.
Steps in the Upgrade Process
We start with an inspection to assess your needs and provide a detailed quote. Then we install the switchboard, run safety checks, and issue your Certificate of Electrical Safety.
Key Elements in a New Switchboard
Modern switchboards include essential safety features such as RCDs, AFDDs, surge protection, and, in some cases, intelligent monitoring. These allow device-by-device isolation and stronger security for your appliances.
Legal and Safety Requirements
A licensed electrician must perform the work to meet Victorian law. Our team is fully licensed, compliant, and experienced with all regional codes and warranty-backed installations.
Cost of Upgrading Your Switchboard
One of the most asked questions we get is, ” How much will this cost? The answer varies by property, but here’s a clear look at the usual range and what affects pricing.
Typical Price Ranges by Location
In Melbourne, upgrades tend to cost between $800 and $1,800, depending on complexity. If your board includes asbestos, there will be additional removal fees for safe handling and disposal.
Additional Cost Considerations
Three-phase systems, extra circuits or major rewiring can drive your costs higher. Remote properties or heavy-load installations often require additional labour and longer setup time.
Understanding 3-Phase and Smart Upgrades
Tech-savvy homes and energy-heavy runs often need more than a standard setup. That’s where three-phase and high-tech switchboard solutions step in and shine.
When 3-Phase Power Is Needed
Large homes, pools, commercial kitchens, or any equipment with heavy-duty motors may require 3-phase power. This type can better handle higher load demands without tripping or overheating.
Integrating Smart Switchboards
Smart boards track your energy use, offer app control, and instantly alert you to faults. They’re perfect if you’re adding solar or want clean integration with home systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
H3: How Long Does It Take to Complete a Switchboard Upgrade?
Most upgrades take 4–6 hours. Complex homes or additional rewiring jobs might take longer.
H3: Is a Switchboard Upgrade Mandatory in Australia?
Yes, if your system fails an inspection or receives a defect notice. It’s required by law to meet electrical safety codes.
H3: Who Can Perform a Switchboard Upgrade?
Only a licensed electrician can legally carry out this work. We are fully accredited and service homes across Victoria with full compliance.
H3: What Makes Ceramic Fuses Unsafe?
Ceramic fuses are fragile, respond slowly, and can even catch fire. They weren’t made to handle today’s devices or current loads.
H3: What Safety Devices Must Be Included Today?
New switchboards need circuit breakers, RCDs, surge protectors, and proper load distribution. These keep faults from damaging the system or worse, causing injury or fire.
H3: What Are the Long-Term Benefits of an Upgrade?
Over time, you’ll notice fewer outages, better energy use, and greater system reliability. It’s also a way to keep your home protected and future-ready.
