Switchboard Upgrades
An old switchboard with ceramic fuses and no safety switches is the single most common electrical safety issue in older Australian homes. Compare verified electricians below for a switchboard upgrade, or get free quotes.
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Switchboard Upgrades — FAQs
How much does a switchboard upgrade cost?
A straightforward domestic switchboard upgrade typically costs around $800–$2,000 installed, including modern circuit breakers and safety switches (RCDs). Asbestos backing panels, relocating the board, or consumer-mains upgrades push it higher — get an itemised quote.
Do I need to upgrade my switchboard?
Strong signs you do: ceramic plug-in fuses, no safety switches, frequent tripping or flickering, or any DIY-looking wiring. Safety switches on all circuits are now required in new work across Australia because they prevent fatal shocks — an old board without them is worth upgrading even before it fails.
What's the difference between a circuit breaker and a safety switch?
A circuit breaker protects the wiring from overload; a safety switch (RCD) protects people by cutting power in milliseconds when current leaks — for example through a person. Modern boards combine both (RCBOs). Older homes often have breakers or fuses but no RCD protection at all.