What Happens During a Switchboard Installation?
Connor Priestman
Licensed Electrican
Thinking about upgrading your switchboard but not sure what’s involved? Whether you’re renovating, adding high-powered appliances, or simply replacing an old fuse box, understanding the process can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to what happens during a professional switchboard upgrade—especially when you choose a trusted local electrician like Voltaic Electrical in Perth.
Table of Contents
1. Initial Inspection & Quote
It starts with an on-site inspection. A licensed electrician will assess your current switchboard, wiring, and power usage. They’ll check for signs that you need to replace your switchboard such as outdated components (like ceramic fuses), overloaded circuits, missing safety switches, and whether your board complies with modern standards.
At Voltaic Electrical, this inspection comes with a free, no-obligation quote outlining what needs to be done and why.
2. Power Disconnection
On the day of the upgrade, the electrician will temporarily disconnect power to your property. This ensures a safe working environment and protects your appliances during the changeover. The power is usually off for 2–4 hours depending on the complexity of the job.
3. Removal of the Old Switchboard
Your existing switchboard or fuse box is carefully removed. If it contains asbestos (common in older boards), extra precautions will be taken to handle and dispose of it safely. Voltaic Electrical follows strict safety and disposal procedures for these scenarios.
4. Installation of the New Switchboard
A modern switchboard is installed with new circuit breakers and safety switches (RCDs). If you’re upgrading to three-phase power or adding capacity for things like solar, EV chargers, or air conditioning, the board will be configured accordingly.
The new switchboard will:
- Distribute power more efficiently
- Protect your home from overloads and faults
- Comply with current Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3000)
5. Testing & Compliance
Once installed, the electrician will test every circuit and RCD to ensure your new board is functioning correctly. This includes checking polarity, insulation resistance, and earth fault protection. A compliance certificate will then be issued—required for insurance and resale purposes.
6. Clean-Up and Walkthrough
The team will tidy up, label all circuits clearly, and give you a quick walkthrough of how your new switchboard works. You’ll know where everything is, what each breaker controls, and how to reset them if needed.
How Long Does It Take?
Most standard upgrades take between 3 to 6 hours. Complex installations (e.g., three-phase systems or switchboards with rewiring) may take longer but are usually completed in a day.
Why Choose Voltaic Electrical?
Based in Perth, Voltaic Electrical provides safe, reliable switchboard upgrades with transparent pricing and no call-out fees during business hours. All work is carried out by licensed electricians and backed by a lifetime workmanship warranty.
Whether you’re upgrading for safety, compliance, or future power needs—Voltaic ensures the job is done right the first time.
Book Your Free Switchboard Assessment Today
If your board is outdated, tripping frequently, or doesn’t have safety switches installed, don’t wait for something to go wrong. Contact Voltaic Electrical today for a free quote and expert advice anywhere in the Perth metro area.
For an idea on pricing, make sure to check out our switchboard upgrade pricing guide.
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