How to Know When Your Home Needs a Switchboard Upgrade

If you're living in an older Sydney home and noticing flickering lights, tripping switches or strange smells from your fuse box, it could be time for a switchboard upgrade.

Your switchboard directs electricity around your home. If it's outdated or faulty, it can put your safety at risk. Here's how to spot the signs.

1. You Still Have Ceramic Fuses

Ceramic fuses were standard before the 1990s. They're outdated and slow to react in emergencies.

Why upgrade: They don’t trip automatically, and replacement wires can be dangerous if installed incorrectly.

2. Safety Switch Keeps Tripping

Frequent tripping can mean your switchboard is overloaded.

Warning signs:

• Flickering lights

• Appliances randomly turning off

• Burning smell or heat around the board

3. You're Renovating or Adding Appliances

New appliances increase demand. If you're adding a cooktop, air con or EV charger, your old board may not cope.

Stay compliant: An upgrade ensures your system can handle the load safely.

4. You've Been Told Your Wiring Is Old

Old wiring often pairs with outdated switchboards. If one’s flagged, the other likely needs attention too.

5. You Want Peace of Mind

A safe, modern switchboard protects against electrical fires, shocks and overloads.

Bonus: Upgrade to a Smart Meter

Switchboard upgrades are a great time to install a smart meter. These let you track electricity use in real time and can help reduce energy bills.

Why it matters:

• See live usage

• Spot power-hungry appliances

• Keep better control over your energy spend