Do I have to upgrade my switchboard?
If you’re considering installing a grid-connected solar power system you will need a compatible switchboard with space for circuit breakers for solar. If you have a fuse switchboard or no space in your switchboard for these additional circuits, your switchboard will require an upgrade.
When should I upgrade my switchboard?
There are many reasons for a switchboard upgrade, including old age, overheated cables, short-circuiting appliances, too many household appliances, lights flickering and receiving an electrical defect notice.
What is a switchboard upgrade?
Your switchboard upgrade will involve the replacement of all ceramic fuses for modern, safe circuit breakers and RCDs. This occurs in a neat enclosure along with the rewiring/tidying of the cables behind your panel; before finishing with the testing the entire installation and residence.
How much does it cost to upgrade a switchboard NZ?
If you’re renovating an average-sized 3-bedroom home, you can expect to budget somewhere in the vicinity of $8,000 – $10,000 for rewiring, a new switchboard, and new LED lighting throughout.
How much does it cost to update a switchboard?
Like all things, the price of a new switchboard is dependent on its size and capacity. You can expect to pay between $700 to $1500 for the entire process. While some materials are more expensive than other brands, you don’t want to skimp on quality – use a licensed electrician that doesn’t cut corners with pricing.
Are ceramic fuses illegal?
Ceramic fuses are no longer allowed to be installed in people’s homes and we recommend an upgrade as soon as possible. Our electricians regularly come across electrical faults that are caused when old fuses fail (when the contact points become corroded or damaged).
How much does it cost to replace a switch board?
Due to this, prices to replace existing electrical switchboards can vary. As a guide: To replace a switchboard and fuse box alone might cost around $800. If other cabling, circuits and power are needed the bill could increase up to $3000.
What can happen if your switchboard does not have enough circuits?
Not having a large enough supply cable to your home could be just as dangerous as having the wrong circuit protection in your switchboard. The more electricity we use, the hotter the cables get, if they’re undersized then your risk is much higher.
Can you put a switchboard in a cupboard?
(C) In Cupboards. enclosure shall only be installed in an area set aside for the purpose. switchboard.
Do I need to upgrade my switchboard for solar?
In most situations a solar system may only require one space in your switchboard. Although not required a lot of the old switchboards do not have safety switches and installing solar may be a good opportunity to update your switchboard and make your installation safer, this is also a viable option for clients.
Can I replace a ceramic fuse with a circuit breaker?
Plugin Circuit Breakers The next development in fuses technology was a replacement plug in (plugin MCB) circuit breaker that can be inserted into the old porcelain fuse base.
Are wired fuse boxes legal?
The consumer unit (colloquially known as the fusebox) must meet the legal requirements from the time it was installed, even if that was some years ago. Therefore if you do have such a fuse box present, then there’s not necessarily a specific legal requirement to replace it with a modern electrical consumer unit.
Is it safe to upgrade a switchboard in New Zealand?
Upgrading your switchboard to one which meets current NZ electrical standards and regulations will improve overall electrical safety within your premise. We replace existing rewireable fuses with new circuit breakers and residual current devices (RCDs). Upgrading your switchboard improves overall electrical safety.
Do you need a switchboard upgrade at ITA Electrical?
At ITA Electrical, all of our fully qualified Electricians are A-Grade licensed. They are experienced in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical work and will ensure your switchboard upgrade is carried out to the highest industry standards.
How long does it take to upgrade a switchboard?
This will take anywhere from 2-4 hours to complete for a standard switchboard upgrade. Once again, older homes were built according to old rules and regulations. These rules allowed the switchboard panels to be made from asbestos.
When do you need a COEs for a switchboard upgrade?
It’s a legal requirement to issue a COES within 30 days of completing work. Choosing an A-Grade electrician is your safest bet when getting a switchboard upgrade, regardless of whether it’s for your home or your business. Why choose ITA Electrical?