Epping Electrician

Ceramic fuses were designed as a safety mechanism to cut power by melting the fuse wire during a short circuit or overload. However, homes over 25 years old that haven’t had a switchboard upgrade may still use these outdated electrical systems.

The main concern with ceramic fuses is their inability to meet the electrical needs of modern households, often causing blown fuses under even moderate electrical use. Older switchboards with ceramic fuses may struggle to support electrical equipment and appliances reliably, creating both inconvenience and a potential fire risk. An upgrade to a modern switchboard with safety switches can enhance electrical safety and better support today’s electrical demands.

The cost of an electrical switchboard upgrade varies depending on factors like the size of the new switchboard, installation complexity, and additional work requirements such as rewiring.

Here’s a breakdown of typical switchboard upgrade options:

BASIC FUSE BOX UPGRADE

A straightforward upgrade, enhancing electrical safety and system capacity, generally costs between $1200 and $2000.

COMPREHENSIVE OVERHAUL

For extensive upgrades, including mains replacement, asbestos removal, or a completely new switchboard installation, costs range from $2500 to $4500.

3-PHASE SWITCHBOARD UPGRADE

Ideal for homes with higher electricity needs, upgrading to a 3-phase switchboard can range from $3000 to $4500.

ADDITIONAL COMPONENTS

Adding features like surge diverters, Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs), or custom metal switchboards will increase the overall cost, ensuring better protection and electrical safety.

Solar installations have specific requirements, including a compatible switchboard with the correct load rating to handle the additional energy flow.

If your current switchboard or safety switches are outdated or do not meet Australian standards for solar installations, an upgrade may be necessary. Our team at Valour Services can assess your electrical system, recommend the right switchboard upgrades, and ensure your setup is fully solar-ready.

Your EV charger installation depends on several factors, such as the type of charger, the complexity of the installation, and the specific requirements of your site. Here’s an overview of typical expenses for EV chargers and their installation:

CHARGING STATION COSTS

Electric Vehicles wall charger: Prices for EV wall chargers usually range from $500 to $2000. Higher-end models may include advanced features that can increase the final price.

INSTALLATION COSTS

Professional installation: Basic installation costs typically range between $750 and $1250. More complex installations may require additional materials and time, raising the overall cost.

ADDITIONAL FACTORS

The distance between the switchboard and the EV charging station, the type of power supply (single-phase vs. three-phase), and any required upgrades to existing electrical systems can impact the final cost of the installation.

Upgrading from a single-phase to a three-phase power supply generally costs between $2,000 and $6,000.

Several factors influence the total cost, including:

DISTANCE FROM THE STREET ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

The further your home is from the main power supply, the more complex and costly the installation may be.

OVERHEAD OR UNDERGROUND CABLES

The choice between installing overhead or underground cables can affect both installation complexity and cost.

TYPE OF CONNECTION

Options like a private pillar, power pole, or direct point of attachment, can also impact the final price.

To get a clear idea of your investment, contact us here. We will assess your needs and provide a tailored quote for the upgrade.

Upgrading to a three-phase power supply enables your home to handle three times the capacity of a single-phase system, providing a stable and efficient electricity supply. With three active wires and one neutral, this setup ensures continuous power flow, meaning your electrical equipment and appliances can keep operating even if one phase fails. Three-phase power is especially useful for running high-demand devices like air conditioners, heat pumps, and EV chargers, helping reduce energy loss, lower running costs, and extend the lifespan of your electrical systems.

Beyond improving energy efficiency and power distribution in residential properties, three-phase power is essential for commercial and industrial facilities with higher power needs. This setup supports large electric motors, complex electrical installations, and extensive electrical equipment, making it a cost-effective solution for both home and business environments requiring reliable, high-capacity power.

The cost of upgrading your Service Protection Device (SPD) and Meter Protection Device (MPD) can vary based on several factors.

Here’s a breakdown of what influences the total price:

TYPE OF DEVICE

The specific models of SPD and MPD you select will impact the cost. Advanced devices with features like enhanced energy monitoring or higher fault current ratings tend to be more expensive.

COMPLEXITY OF INSTALLATION

The layout and age of your electrical system can affect installation costs. Older properties may require more extensive electrical work to support modern devices, increasing labour and material expenses.

ACCESSIBILITY

The ease of access to your electrical panel and the complexity of safely integrating new devices can also influence the cost.

ELECTRICIAN FEES

The experience and rates of the licensed electrician handling the installation, especially if a Level 2 certified electrician is required, will play a role in the overall cost.

Contact us today to discuss your SPD and MPD upgrade options and ensure your electrical systems are fully protected and compliant with current safety standards.

The cost of installing underground power lines depends on whether the property is new or has existing overhead lines.

FOR A NEW PROPERTY

Installation typically ranges from $4,500 to $6,500.

FOR AN EXISTING PROPERTY WITH OVERHEAD LINES

Converting to underground lines costs between $5,000 and $7,000.

When comparing overhead and underground power options, the costs can vary significantly. Overhead lines, which involve setting up a power pole and running cables, cost about $50 to $65 per metre. Underground power lines, which require trenching and insulated cables, are more expensive, ranging from $225 to $350 per metre.

Solar-integrated EV charging offers numerous benefits for homeowners. By combining solar power with Electric Vehicle charging, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and energy costs. This integration allows you to charge your EV using clean, renewable energy generated by your own solar panels, reducing reliance on grid electricity and fossil fuels.

Smart solar EV chargers can monitor your solar production and automatically divert excess energy to your vehicle, maximising the use of your solar system. This optimises energy consumption and can lead to substantial savings on electricity bills.

In Sydney, upgrading from a single-phase board to a three-phase board typically costs between $2,500 and $6,000. This price range can vary based on specific factors related to your property and existing switchboard setup.