Is it time for a meter box upgrade?
Upgrading the meter box in your home can deliver more power and greater efficiency. Many older homes have outdated electrical systems, but it often goes unchecked until there’s a problem. Unfortunately, faulty switchboards and wiring can cause significant risks for you and your family, which highlights the need to ensure your electrical system is in good condition.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the signs that you may need a meter box upgrade. We’ll also find out why it’s so crucial to maintain a healthy switchboard. Read on to find out all about meter box upgrades in Brisbane.
Signs you might need a meter box upgrade
There are a lot of potential indicators that it could be time for a switchboard upgrade. If you notice any of the following things occurring in your home, it’s time to contact your local electrician for an inspection.
- Regular flickering of lights
- Frequently blown fuses
- Burning smells from appliances
- Circuit breakers being tripped
- Discoloured or overly warm power outlets
- Getting a tingling sensation when touching appliances
Basically, if you notice anything strange occurring with your electrical system or appliances, it’s a good idea to call an electrician. Electrical faults can be deadly and should be inspected as soon as possible.
The risks of not upgrading your meter box
Many homes in Australia have old meter boxes that should be upgraded. This is not always front of mind for homeowners, though, because upgrading or moving electricity meters is obviously an expense. However, it could be an expense that saves lives. Here are some of the risks of neglecting your old meter box.
Fires
Perhaps the most serious consequence of faulty wiring or old switchboards is a fire. While modern homes are usually equipped with circuit breakers, safety switches and other power surge prevention technology, old switchboards don’t always have these safety measures. Sparks, faulty wires, and switchboards without circuit breakers can all lead to fires in the home. Even rodents gnawing on cables can cause a fire without a modern electrical system.
Electrocution incidents
If your wiring isn’t up to scratch, the electrical currents flowing through them are often compromised. Your wiring is responsible for distributing an even current to the devices in your home. However, when wires become old, worn out or damaged, they lose their insulation. The result, should someone come into contact with the wire, can be electrocution.
Damaging household appliances
While damaged wiring can lead to electrocutions, it can have a similar effect on appliances. Delivering electricity improperly can short out your household devices, often damaging them. The electrical systems can be so bad in older homes that they aren’t even suitable for modern appliances. The major difficulty is, you might not even notice the damage being caused. Improper electrical currents can cause excessive wear and tear and reduce the lifespan of appliances. So, if you want your electrical devices to last longer, it’s time to upgrade your meter box.
More wasted energy
Finally, this risk is going to hit you right in the back pocket. Faulty wiring systems considerably reduce your home’s energy efficiency. You can expect much higher energy bills if you’ve got an outdated meter box because there is more wasted energy. Ideally, you want as much of your electricity reaching the end device as possible. An ineffective meter box and wiring system leads to energy loss and a higher consumption of electricity. So, if you want to increase the energy efficiency in your home, a switchboard and meter box upgrade is a good idea.
What is the meter box upgrade cost?
There are multiple ways to improve your home’s electrical system, and one of those is to upgrade the meter box. Remember, your meter box includes multiple components, including the switchboard, main switch, fuse box and safety switches. Generally, when replacing a meter box it’s ideal to replace all of these components. For example, modern circuit breakers should be installed and if you want more power in your home, you’ll need to upgrade the electrical panel.
Most meter box upgrades can be done for between $1,200-$3,000, however it really depends on your home’s condition, the size, and number of circuits, and other factors. If you need to replace all of the wiring, this is obviously a more complex job that takes longer.
If you’re experiencing electrical issues, the best step is to call an electrician. If your meter box and switchboard are old, it’s likely you’ll need an upgrade. But a full inspection by a trusted electrician can often help you save money, as the problems may not be as complicated as you first thought.
Do you need a meter box upgrade?
If you’re experiencing issues with your electrical supply and feel it’s time for a meter box upgrade, we’re here to help. Sorted Electrical are experts in testing and diagnosing electrical faults. More importantly, we’ll recommend the best and most cost-effective solutions to suit your needs. We never recommend upgrades or repairs that aren’t necessary, and we take great pride in our exceptional level of customer service. Choose your local licensed electrician for meter box upgrades, whether you’re in Norman Park, Seven Hills, Coorparoo or any surrounding areas.
