Introduction
The switchboard in your home is quite literally the heart of your electrical system. It distributes power to every: circuit lights, outlets, appliances, air‑conditioning in Western Australian homes, and when your switchboard is outdated it can become a hidden risk. At Handcock Electrical, we help families and businesses across WA upgrade switchboards so that safety, reliability and future‑readiness are built into your installation.
What Is a Switchboard and Why Does It Matter?
A switchboard houses the main electrical controls for your property. It includes circuit breakers or fuses, safety switches (RCDs), and the branching circuits that serve rooms, appliances and external power points. With modern homes using more power (think EV chargers, large air‑conditioners, home theatres, outdoor lighting) an older switchboard can be overloaded, lack adequate protection, and fail to comply with current standards.
Signs That Your Switchboard Needs an Upgrade
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Your switchboard still uses ceramic fuses rather than modern breakers.
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You experience frequent tripping of circuits or safety switches.
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The switchboard cabinet is warm to touch, contains rust or corrosion, is cluttered or has poor labelling.
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You’re installing major appliances (e.g., a new cooktop, EV charger, high‑capacity split system) and told your switchboard won’t cope.
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Your property is older (20 + years) and hasn’t had a switchboard safety inspection recently.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Switchboard
Improved Safety: Modern switchboards have RCDs (safety switches) on all final circuits, protecting you from electric shocks and fire risks. Handcock Electrical highlights their “complete safety solutions” including RCD installation.
Future‑ready Capacity: With more power demands than ever, an upgraded board means you’re ready for EV charging, solar-integration, larger appliances or workshop loads without major rewiring later.
Better Insurance & Compliance: Insurers may refuse claims where outdated wiring/switchboards caused damage. Upgrades provide peace of mind and documentation.
Property Value & Reliability: A modern switchboard makes your home more appealing to buyers or tenants and reduces downtime from faulty circuits or overloaded boards.
What the Upgrade Process Looks Like
At Handcock Electrical, the process typically includes:
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A detailed inspection and load‑assessment of your existing board and wiring.
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A clear quote – Handcock offers free, no‑call‑out‑fee quotes.
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Scheduling the upgrade: switch off power, remove old board (if required), install new board, safety switches, labelling, testing.
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Compliance testing and certification – ensuring the board meets AS/NZS 3000 wiring rules and local standards.
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Clean‑up and handover – the team leaves the area tidy, with explanation of your new board, circuits and what to test/monthly check.
Typical Scenarios Where Upgrade Is Critical
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Renovating a kitchen or adding a major appliance.
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Converting a garage into a living space or workshop.
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Installing an EV charger or heavy‑load air‑conditioning unit.
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Purchasing an older home with outdated wiring and board.
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Rental property preparing for compliance and safety checks.
Choosing Handcock Electrical for Your Upgrade
Handcock is a family‑orientated business that stresses high‑quality workmanship and customer‑first service. Their service offering includes residential switchboards, safety and compliance checks, free quotes and a no‑call‑out‑fee promise. Whether you live in suburbs of Perth or the South West, they aim for reliable, safe, and professional electrical solutions.
In Summary
Upgrading your switchboard isn’t just “nice to have”. It’s a smart investment in safety, future‑proofing and property value. If your electrical system is showing signs of strain, or if you’re simply planning ahead, get Handcock Electrical to inspect, quote and upgrade your switchboard. It could save you thousands in repairs, downtime and risk.
