Electrical Panel / Switchboard Upgrade: When and Why You Need One

Your electrical panel, often called the switchboard, is the central hub of your home or business’s electrical system. It distributes power to every circuit in the building, ensuring that your appliances, lighting, and outlets work safely and efficiently. Over time, however, an outdated or overloaded switchboard can become a serious safety hazard. If your electrical panel struggles to meet modern demands, it may be time for an upgrade. Benchmark Electrical specialises in electrical panel and switchboard upgrades, helping ensure your property’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and future-ready.

What Is an Electrical Panel / Switchboard?

The electrical panel, or switchboard, directs electricity from the utility company to the various circuits throughout your home or business. It contains circuit breakers (or fuses in older systems), which control the flow of electricity and protect your system from overloads, short circuits, and other electrical faults. A properly functioning switchboard is essential for the safety and performance of your electrical system.

Signs You May Need an Electrical Panel / Switchboard Upgrade

Modern homes and businesses use far more electrical devices than ever, and an outdated switchboard may need help to handle the increased load. Here are some common signs that you may need to upgrade your electrical panel:

• Frequent Tripped Circuit Breakers: If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it’s a sign that your panel is struggling to keep up with the electricity demand. This can happen when your home or business has too many appliances or devices running on the same circuit. An upgraded panel with more capacity can prevent frequent tripping and ensure a more stable power supply.
• Flickering or Dimming Lights: Flickering or dimming lights, especially when using large appliances like air conditioners or microwaves, can indicate overloading your electrical panel. This can happen when the panel is not distributing electricity evenly or efficiently. Upgrading your switchboard can resolve this issue by providing a more balanced power distribution.
• Overheating or Burning Smell: If your electrical panel feels hot to the touch or if you notice a burning smell near the switchboard, it’s a clear sign of a serious electrical issue. This could indicate that the panel is overloaded, the wiring is damaged, or a circuit breaker is malfunctioning. Overheating switchboards are a major fire hazard and should be addressed immediately by a licensed electrician.
• Outdated Fuse Box: Homes with fuse boxes instead of modern circuit breakers may not be equipped to handle the electrical demands of today’s appliances and devices. Fuse boxes are not as reliable or safe as circuit breakers, and replacing them with a modern electrical panel can significantly improve the safety and performance of your electrical system.
• Insufficient Outlets or Power: Using multiple power strips or extension cords to plug in all your devices could indicate that your electrical system doesn’t have enough capacity to meet your needs. An upgraded panel can provide additional circuits, giving you more outlets and reducing the risk of overloading.
• Renovations or Additions: If you’re renovating your home, adding new rooms, or installing major appliances like a hot tub or electric vehicle (EV) charger, you’ll likely need an electrical panel upgrade to accommodate the increased demand. Modern appliances require more power, and your existing switchboard may be unable to handle these upgrades.
• Old or Faulty Wiring: If your home or business is older and still has outdated wiring, upgrading your electrical panel can ensure your system meets modern safety standards. Old wiring can become brittle or frayed over time, increasing the risk of electrical fires and other hazards.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel / Switchboard

Upgrading your electrical panel offers several benefits beyond handling more power. Here’s why upgrading your switchboard is a wise investment:

• Enhanced Safety: An overloaded or outdated panel is a significant safety risk. It can lead to electrical fires, shocks, and damage to appliances. By upgrading to a modern switchboard, you can protect your home or business from these dangers. Newer panels are designed to handle the electrical load of today’s appliances and come equipped with safety features like Residual Current Devices (RCDs) or safety switches, which immediately cut off power if an electrical fault is detected.
• Increased Electrical Capacity: Modern homes and businesses rely on more electronic devices and appliances than ever. Upgrading your switchboard ensures your electrical system can handle this increased demand, preventing tripped breakers and power outages. With more circuits available, you can add new appliances or equipment without worrying about overloading your system.
• Energy Efficiency: An outdated switchboard can result in inefficient power distribution, wasting energy and higher electricity bills. Upgrading your panel will ensure that electricity is distributed more efficiently throughout your home or business, helping you reduce energy consumption and lower costs.
• Support for Modern Appliances: If you’re planning to install energy-intensive appliances like an electric vehicle (EV) charger, central air conditioning, or a new kitchen appliance, you’ll likely need an upgraded switchboard to support them. A new panel will provide the necessary circuits and prevent overloading your existing electrical system.
• Compliance with Modern Standards: Electrical safety standards and building codes have evolved, and older panels may not meet current regulations. Upgrading your switchboard ensures that your system is up to code, providing peace of mind and protecting you from potential legal issues or fines.
• Increased Property Value: An upgraded electrical panel is attractive for potential homebuyers or business tenants. It demonstrates that your property has a modern, safe, and efficient electrical system, which can increase its value and appeal on the market.

The Electrical Panel / Switchboard Upgrade Process

At Benchmark Electrical, we make upgrading your electrical panel as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s what you can expect when you choose us for your switchboard upgrade:

• Initial Assessment: We’ll assess your existing electrical system to determine whether an upgrade is necessary. This includes checking the capacity of your current panel, inspecting the condition of your wiring, and discussing any future electrical needs you may have.
• Custom Recommendations: Based on our assessment, we’ll recommend the appropriate switchboard upgrade to meet your specific requirements. We’ll ensure the new panel can support your home or business and any additional appliances or renovations you plan.
• Installation: Our licensed and experienced electricians will handle the entire installation process, from safely disconnecting your old panel to installing the new one. We’ll ensure that all wiring is connected correctly and that the new panel complies with local electrical codes and safety standards.
• Testing and Safety Checks: Once the new panel is installed, we’ll conduct thorough testing to ensure everything works correctly. We’ll check for proper circuit operation, ensure that safety switches (RCDs) function, and confirm that the electrical system distributes power efficiently.
• Ongoing Support: We’re always available to provide ongoing maintenance and support after the installation. Whether you need routine inspections, repairs, or upgrades in the future, Benchmark Electrical is here to help keep your electrical system in top condition.

When to Call an Electrician for an Electrical Panel Upgrade

If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above or are planning renovations that will increase your electrical demand, it’s time to consult a professional electrician. At Benchmark Electrical, our team of licensed electricians is ready to assess your system and provide expert recommendations on whether an upgrade is needed. We’re committed to delivering safe, reliable, and efficient electrical solutions tailored to your needs.