Summer is when your home’s electrical system works hardest. If your switchboard isn’t up to the task, you risk tripping power, damaging appliances or worse—an electrical fire. In this guide, we cover common overload issues faced by Western Australian households and how to avoid them.
What is an Electrical Overload?
An electrical overload occurs when more current is drawn through a circuit than it is designed to handle. This can happen when you plug too many appliances into one outlet, or when your home’s overall demand exceeds what your switchboard can deliver.
Signs of an Overload
• Frequent tripping of breakers or safety switches
• Flickering lights
• Buzzing sounds from outlets
• Warm or discoloured switch plates
• Burning smell near power points
If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using affected appliances and contact a licensed electrician.
Most Common Summer Overload Culprits in WA Homes
1. Air Conditioners
2. Pool pumps and filters
3. Outdoor entertainment systems
4. Old fridges working harder in the heat
5. Plug-in fans, lights, and holiday decorations
How to Prevent Overloads This Summer
1. Install a Dedicated Circuit for High-Load Appliances
Air conditioners, spas and pool pumps should each have their own dedicated circuit. Handcock Electrical can install these safely, ensuring you avoid circuit overloads.
2. Upgrade Your Switchboard
If your home still has ceramic fuses or limited breaker capacity, it’s time for a switchboard upgrade. New switchboards handle modern loads and offer safer protections.
3. Use Power Points Correctly
Avoid piggy-backing power boards or running multiple high-wattage devices on a single outlet. Install extra power points where needed.
4. Balance Power Use
Stagger the use of large appliances. For example, avoid running the dishwasher, washing machine, and air conditioner all at once.
5. Test Your Safety Switches
These devices save lives. If a circuit becomes overloaded and causes a short or fault, a working safety switch will trip and prevent electrocution or fire.
Additional Tips
• Use LED lighting to reduce power consumption
• Install timers for outdoor lights or water features
• Schedule an electrical health check with our team
The Handcock Electrical Difference
We help WA homeowners by:
• Assessing load capacity
• Identifying risk areas
• Installing surge protection
• Upgrading power boards
• Improving wiring
Peace of Mind this Summer
Overloads are preventable with the right systems in place. Let Handcock Electrical make your home safer and smarter for summer.