Stuart Johnston Electrical

FAQs

Some of your electrical questions answered by our expert team

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Frequently asked questions

Answers to some of the most common questions our customers ask
When is it a good idea to upgrade my main switchboard

Safety: If your current switchboard is outdated, has faulty wiring, or lacks proper safety features, it’s essential to upgrade to ensure the safety of your home and its occupants. Old switchboards may not have adequate protection against electrical faults, such as overloading or short circuits, which can lead to electrical fires or other hazards.

Increased Power Demand: If you’ve added new appliances, electrical devices, or home renovations that require additional power, your existing switchboard may not be able to handle the increased load. Upgrading the switchboard allows you to distribute power more efficiently and avoid overloading circuits, reducing the risk of electrical issues.

Compliance with Electrical Standards: Electrical safety standards and regulations may evolve over time. If your current switchboard doesn’t meet the latest codes and requirements, it’s advisable to upgrade to ensure compliance. This is especially important if you’re planning to sell your home, as potential buyers may request an updated switchboard as part of the inspection process.

Power Outages and Tripping Breakers: Frequent power It’s important to consult with a licensed electrician who can assess your specific situation and recommend whether a switchboard upgrade is necessary. They will consider factors like the age of your current switchboard, electrical load requirements, safety concerns, and local electrical codes to provide you with the most suitable advice. outages or tripping circuit breakers can be signs of an overloaded or outdated switchboard. Upgrading to a more robust switchboard can help address these issues, improving the reliability of your electrical system and reducing inconvenient disruptions.

Addition of Solar Panels or Electric Vehicle Charging: If you’re planning to install solar panels or an electric vehicle (EV) charging station at your home, you may need a switchboard upgrade to accommodate the increased electrical load and integrate these new energy sources effectively

Future-Proofing: If your switchboard is approaching its expected lifespan or you want to future-proof your home’s electrical infrastructure, upgrading can be a wise decision. A modern switchboard with advanced features, such as residual current devices (RCDs) and surge protection, can provide enhanced electrical safety and support potential upgrades or technology advancements in the future.

It’s important to consult with a licensed electrician who can assess your specific situation and recommend whether a switchboard upgrade is necessary. They will consider factors like the age of your current switchboard, electrical load requirements, safety concerns, and local electrical codes to provide you with the most suitable advice.

Short answer is YES
Safety: Electrical work involves working with live wires, circuits, and electrical components that carry the risk of electric shock or fire hazards if not installed or repaired correctly. Licensed electricians undergo extensive training and have the necessary knowledge and expertise to work safely with electrical systems. They understand electrical codes, regulations, and best practices, ensuring that the work is done safely and meets the required safety standards.

Compliance: Electrical work is subject to local building codes and regulations. Licensed electricians are familiar with these codes and requirements and ensure that the work they perform complies with all relevant regulations. This is particularly important when it comes to more significant electrical projects, such as switchboard upgrades or installations, where compliance is crucial for safety and legal reasons.

Quality and Reliability: Licensed electricians have the skills and experience to provide high-quality workmanship. They understand how to properly install, repair, and maintain electrical systems, which ensures the longevity and reliability of the work performed. Hiring a licensed electrician helps minimize the risk of electrical issues, such as faulty wiring or inadequate installations, which can lead to malfunctions, power outages, or safety hazards.

Insurance and Liability: When you hire a licensed electrician, they typically carry liability insurance. This insurance protects you and your property in case of any accidents or damages that may occur during the electrical work. If you were to hire an unlicensed electrician or attempt to do the work yourself and something went wrong, you could be held liable for any damages or injuries that result.

Permits and Inspections: Some electrical projects may require permits and inspections to ensure compliance with local regulations. Licensed electricians are familiar with the permit process and can handle the necessary paperwork and coordinate inspections as needed. This ensures that the work is properly documented and inspected to meet all legal requirements.

Overall, using a licensed electrician provides you with peace of mind, knowing that the electrical work is being done by a qualified professional who prioritizes safety and follows the necessary regulations. When hiring an electrician, make sure to check their credentials, ask for references, and verify their license and insurance information to ensure you are working with a reputable and qualified professional.

Electrical safety inspections are vital for homes, particularly older properties or after significant renovations. Consult with our team 04 1842 2182 and we will help determine the recommended inspection intervals based on your specific circumstances.

In case of an electrical emergency, such as sparks, smoke, or power outages, ensure your safety first by turning off the power at the main switchboard. Then, contact Stuart Johnston Electrical immediately on 04 1842 2182. They offer emergency electrical services and will respond promptly to resolve the issue efficiently and safely.

Stuart Johnston Electrical provides energy-efficient solutions to help reduce your energy consumption. We offer services such as LED lighting installations, energy audits, solar PV systems, and can provide advice on energy-saving electrical appliances to make your home more energy-efficient.

Stuart Johnston Electrical offers a wide range of electrical services, including installations, repairs, and maintenance for both residential and commercial properties. We specialize in switchboard upgrades , solar panel installations, new homes wiring, electrical rewiring, safety inspections, and data cabling, electrical test and tagging, among other services.

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