An old switchboard is one of the most common electrical safety risks in older homes. Tully Electrical upgrades switchboards and fuse boxes, installs RCD safety switches and surge protection, and carries out electrical safety inspections for homes, rentals and businesses.
Switchboard Upgrades and Fuse Box Replacement
We replace old ceramic fuse boxes and outdated switchboards with modern boards fitted with circuit breakers and safety switches. An upgrade is often needed before adding an EV charger, solar, air conditioning or new circuits during a renovation.
Signs your switchboard needs upgrading
- Old rewireable ceramic fuses
- No safety switches, or only one protecting a few circuits
- Breakers or fuses that trip or blow often
- Scorch marks, a burning smell, buzzing or a hot board
- No space for new circuits
- Asbestos backing boards in older homes
Safety Switch (RCD) Installation and Testing
A safety switch (RCD) cuts the power in a fraction of a second if it detects current leaking to earth, which can prevent electric shock and fire. A circuit breaker protects the wiring from overload; a safety switch protects people. We install, replace and test safety switches, and track down the cause when one keeps tripping.
Surge Protection and Circuit Breakers
We fit surge protection to help protect appliances and electronics, and replace or add circuit breakers and dedicated circuits.
Smoke Alarms
NSW law requires working smoke alarms on every level of a home. We install hardwired and interconnected smoke alarms, replace old or beeping units, and test alarms for landlords and property managers.
Electrical Safety Inspections
- Home electrical safety checks, including older wiring
- Pre-purchase electrical inspections
- Rental property electrical safety checks
- Switchboard and safety switch testing
- Written defect reports with recommended repairs
Switchboard and Safety FAQs
How much does a switchboard upgrade cost?
It depends on the number of circuits, the condition of the existing wiring, whether the meter box needs work and whether there is asbestos. We inspect the board and give you a fixed written quote.
How long does a switchboard upgrade take?
Most homes are done in a day, with the power off for part of it. We will tell you the timing before we start.
What is the difference between a fuse box and a switchboard?
A fuse box uses wire fuses that melt when overloaded. A modern switchboard uses circuit breakers that can be reset, plus safety switches that protect people from electric shock.
How often should safety switches be tested?
Press the test button every few months at home. Workplaces and rentals may have more formal testing requirements, which we can carry out.
Related: residential electrician · meter box and mains upgrades
Book a Switchboard Upgrade or Safety Check
Call or send an enquiry and we can talk you through what is likely to be needed.