Electricity is possibly the most useful invention ever. This is especially true when you consider what it allows you to do. Just about every modern appliance and gadget requires electricity at some point and it’s almost impossible to imagine your home functioning smoothly without it.
With that in mind, many Australians opt for the necessary switchboard upgrades to ensure that their homes and offices have a safe and steady flow of electricity when they need it. If you haven’t experienced any issues with your current switchboard, you may be wondering how necessary an upgrade is. After all, is it really necessary to repair it if nothing seems to be broken?
What You Should Know About Your Switchboard
Typically, the electrical switchboard in your home is the central point where your electricity comes into your house and is then dispatched to different outlets across your property. Switchboards tend to have a long lifespan, which is why you may not have needed an upgrade until now. It may also be why you have only opted for minor repairs if they have ever been necessary.
However, it’s important to point out that your electricity needs may have changed since the unit was originally installed. This is especially the case in old homes where the board may never have been upgraded. Consider how much electricity homeowners of 50 years ago were using versus what you’re using now. Since technology has changed, the legislation has also been amended. Your old board may therefore no longer be compliant.
Upgrades are Always Beneficial
In a technologically driven world, we’ve all become acutely aware of having to upgrade our devices, appliances, and other gadgets to ensure that everything is working to its most optimal level. Your home’s electrical switchboard is no different.
Ideally, your switchboard should be upgraded every 20 years, which means your unit may be due for an assessment. We’ve compiled a list of the ways a switchboard upgrade will benefit your home and your budget.
1. Keep Up With Your Home’s Changing Needs
We’ve already mentioned that your home’s current electricity has changed since the unit was initially installed. As technology changes and you add more items to your home, your switchboard may require new circuits. Older wiring and components may also need to be upgraded to be more efficient.
Typically, an upgrade ensures that you can use and charge devices throughout the house for extended periods. You will also have peace of mind that wirings and components can safely be used without becoming overloaded.
2. Makes Your Home More Energy Efficient
With rising energy costs and a global focus on sustainability, Australians are keen on making their homes more energy-efficient. One of the simplest ways to achieve this is by upgrading the older components and circuit breakers.
Newer components have been designed to transmit and handle more electricity more efficiently. Modern boards have also been designed to handle any potential increases in demand as your future needs change. Besides this, a reduction in energy consumption also means more affordable energy bills.
3. Makes Your Home Solar Ready
Many Australians are switching to solar energy. However, this process involves a lot more than simply adding solar panels to the roof. Your switchboard will need to be upgraded to maintain solar panels and inverters.
If you have any intention of investing in solar energy or switching to an electric vehicle, you may require a switchboard upgrade. Remember that solar options likely didn’t exist when your switchboard was initially installed, meaning your old switchboard technology isn’t compatible with modern renewable energy solutions.
4. Effective Way to Remove Asbestos in Older Units
Recent years have seen an increasing emphasis on the dangers of asbestos. This is alarming because the back panels of older switchboards were made using this harmful component. Any models that were installed before 2003 may still show traces of asbestos particles.
When inhaled, these particles can lead to the development of lung cancer over time. It’s a good idea to remove the potential risk to your family by opting to have your board upgraded, which will include the removal of any asbestos components.
5. Can Increase Your Home’s Property Value
It’s no secret that potential homeowners will be more attracted to your home if you have the necessary modern upgrades. This includes an upgraded electrical switchboard.
Potential buyers won’t have to spend additional money to do the upgrades themselves when they want to convert to renewable energy or install SMART features. If you’re planning a sale in the future, be sure to add the new switchboard to the list of selling features that make your home a worthy option.
Final Thoughts
If you think your home’s energy output doesn’t match what your modern home needs, it’s definitely time to speak to your local electrician for an assessment and potential upgrade. Investing in a new switchboard will give you peace of mind that your home is both compliant and safe. Becoming more energy efficient and boosting your home’s value in the process is a huge bonus!