Do I Need a Switchboard Upgrade? 7 Signs Your Home Isn’t Safe

Your switchboard controls how power flows through your home - and more importantly, how faults are handled when something goes wrong.
Many older Melbourne homes still rely on outdated fuse boxes and wiring that simply weren’t built for the electrical load we use today.

Here are the 7 biggest warning signs your switchboard may need upgrading.

1. You Still Have Ceramic Fuses

Ceramic fuses were designed decades ago for far fewer appliances. They provide limited protection and are a major sign your switchboard is outdated.

2. Lights Flicker or Circuits Keep Tripping

Consistent tripping or flickering lights often means your switchboard can’t keep up with demand or your circuits are overloaded.

3. Your Safety Switch Trips Randomly

If your RCD trips without a clear cause, it could be an indication of deteriorated wiring, moisture, or a failing safety switch.

4. Your Home Was Built Before 1990

Older homes typically have fuse boxes with no RCD protection, ageing components, and boards that don’t meet modern safety standards.

5. You’re Adding New Appliances or Renovating

Upgrading kitchens, adding air conditioning, installing EV chargers, or extending your home usually requires extra electrical load - and often a switchboard upgrade.

6. You Notice Heat, Smell Burning, or See Discolouration

Any sign of heat or burning around the fuse box is a serious electrical hazard and needs immediate attention.

7. You Don’t Have an RCD on Every Circuit

Modern standards require safety switch protection on every circuit. Many older homes have only one - or none at all.

Why Switchboard Upgrades Matter

A modern switchboard gives you:

• better protection from electrical fires

• improved safety switch performance

• fewer power interruptions

• compliance with current standards

• peace of mind for your family

Homes in Richmond, Burnley, Hawthorn, Kew and surrounding suburbs often have older wiring and equipment, making switchboard upgrades even more important.

How Blunt’s Electrical Can Help

We specialise in switchboard upgrades across Melbourne, particularly in older terrace homes. You’ll get:

• licensed A-Grade electricians

• clean and professional work

• clear pricing

• circuit labelling

• safety switches on every circuit

Book a Switchboard Assessment

Phone - 9428 6770
Richmond - servicing all Melbourne suburbs
Switchboard upgrades, safety checks, and electrical repairs