Many homes in Preston, especially older ones, still rely on outdated switchboards. These systems were built for a time when households used far less electricity. Today, they can quietly pose risks to your safety, appliances, and even insurance compliance.
As technology and electrical standards continue to shift in 2025, it’s time for Preston homeowners to consider whether their switchboards are keeping up.
Risks of Outdated Infrastructure
Older switchboards often use ceramic fuses, which are slower to react and less reliable than modern circuit breakers. These fuses don’t provide the same level of protection against overloads or faults, increasing the chances of overheating or fire.
Some ageing panels even contain asbestos, while others show signs of wear like heat damage or exposed wiring. These conditions not only pose a hazard but may also prevent your home from passing an electrical safety inspection.
Exceeding Systems Demands
Today’s households are filled with high-draw appliances. From air conditioning systems and dishwashers to smart TVs and laptops, the electrical load has increased significantly. Most older switchboards were never built to handle this kind of demand.
If your system is outdated, you might already notice signs like circuit breakers tripping, flickering lights, or entire sections of the home losing power. A modern switchboard is designed to handle these loads more safely and efficiently.
Meeting Safety Standards
Australian electrical standards have tightened in recent years. RCDs, or safety switches, are now mandatory in all new and renovated homes. These devices shut off power instantly when they detect a fault, helping prevent shocks or fires.
Older systems usually lack these protections. If your switchboard hasn’t been updated in decades, it may not meet current safety codes. This can put your home at risk and potentially leave you exposed to legal or insurance issues if something goes wrong.
Reliable Power Supply and Efficiency
Upgrading your switchboard can give you more than just peace of mind. It can improve the day-to-day reliability of your electrical system. Fewer outages, less flickering, and more consistent performance are just some of the benefits.
Newer switchboards also include options like built-in surge protection, helping to shield valuable electronics from sudden power spikes. And with better-quality components, your system will likely require less maintenance in the long run.
Future-Proofing Your Home
If you’re planning to add solar panels, install an EV charger, or renovate, your current switchboard might not be ready for it. Modern upgrades are often required to safely support these additions.
Future-proofing your home with a compliant switchboard means you can move forward with upgrades confidently, without risking system overloads or unsafe installations.
Ensuring Switchboard Safety
It is recommended to have your switchboard checked every five years to ensure it remains safe, reliable, and compliant with current standards. Regular inspections can catch potential issues before they become costly or dangerous.
At Forefront Electrical and Communications, we provide expert switchboard inspections and upgrades tailored to Preston homes. Our experienced electricians focus on safety, compliance, and delivering lasting solutions that protect your home and family.
Contact Forefront Electrical and Communications today to schedule your switchboard safety check and upgrade in Preston.
