Switchboard upgrade
Modernise your home's electrical system with a professional switchboard upgrade that improves safety, capacity, and reliability.
Expert switchboard upgrade services
Professional solutions by fully licensed and insured electricians across Sydney's Northern Beaches.
About our switchboard upgrade services
Our switchboard upgrade services provide Northern Beaches homes with modern, safe, and compliant electrical distribution systems. We specialise in replacing outdated fuse boxes with contemporary circuit breaker panels that meet current safety standards and accommodate your household's growing power demands. From basic upgrades to complete switchboard replacements with smart monitoring capabilities, our licensed electricians ensure your home's electrical foundation is robust, safe, and future-proofed. Every switchboard we install includes safety switches for optimal protection and is designed with capacity for future additions to your electrical system.
What we offer
Our team of licensed electricians specialises in delivering high-quality switchboard upgrade solutions for homes of all sizes. Whether you're building a new home, renovating, or simply upgrading your existing systems, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.
From initial consultation to final installation and ongoing support, our team is committed to excellence at every stage of your project.
Why choose Howitt Powered
- Licensed and insured professionals with extensive experience
- Adherence to all Australian electrical safety standards
- Quality workmanship backed by satisfaction guarantee
- Timely service with respect for your schedule
Benefits and features
Discover why our switchboard upgrade solutions are trusted by homeowners across the Northern Beaches.
Key benefits
- •Enhanced electrical safety with modern circuit breakers and safety switches
- •Increased capacity to handle modern appliances and devices
- •Reduced risk of electrical fires and hazards
- •Compliance with current Australian electrical standards
Key features
- •Complete replacement of outdated fuse boxes with modern circuit breakers
- •Installation of safety switches (RCDs) for all circuits
- •Surge protection options to safeguard sensitive electronics
- •Circuit labeling and documentation for easy maintenance
- •Optional smart monitoring systems for energy management
Common problems we solve
Our expertise addresses these frequent challenges in switchboard upgrade projects:
Our expertise
Specialised knowledge
Our team brings specialised expertise in switchboard upgrade with over 10 years of experience. We've completed hundreds of home installations across the Northern Beaches, giving us deep insights into local requirements and best practices.
We stay at the forefront of industry developments through ongoing training and certification, ensuring we deliver the most current and effective solutions to our clients.
Standards we follow
- •AS/NZS 3000 (Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules)
- •AS/NZS 3008 (Electrical installations - Selection of cables)
- •AS/NZS 3017 (Electrical installations - Verification guidelines)
- •AS/NZS 3190 (Approval and test specification - Residual current devices)
- •AS/NZS 61439 (Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies)
Our approach to quality
Quality is at the heart of everything we do. Our approach to switchboard upgrade is built on:
We only use high-quality, reliable products and materials from trusted suppliers.
Our electricians are seasoned professionals with specialised training in switchboard upgrade.
We follow a detailed, systematic approach to every installation, with multiple quality checks.
We provide maintenance and support long after the installation is complete.
Our process
Initial assessment
We evaluate your current electrical system, assess your household's power requirements, and identify potential safety concerns with your existing switchboard.
Detailed recommendation
Our electricians provide a comprehensive proposal outlining recommended upgrades, safety improvements, and options for future-proofing your electrical system.
Pre-installation planning
We schedule the upgrade at your convenience, notify you of expected power outage duration, and prepare all necessary materials and equipment.
Safe disconnection
On installation day, we safely disconnect power and remove the old switchboard components while protecting surrounding areas from dust and damage.
Professional installation
Our licensed electricians install the new switchboard with circuit breakers, safety switches, and any additional requested features, ensuring all connections are secure.
Testing and certification
We thoroughly test all circuits, verify safety switch operation, and complete all required compliance certification before restoring power to your home.
Our approach
Materials we use
- •High-quality circuit breakers and safety switches
- •Premium switchboard enclosures with IP ratings appropriate for location
- •Industry-standard copper cabling and bus bars
- •Surge protection devices for sensitive electronics
- •Heat-resistant and fire-retardant materials
Project timeline
Standard switchboard upgrades typically take 4-8 hours to complete. More complex installations or three-phase systems may require a full day.
Warranty information
5-year warranty on all workmanship, with manufacturer warranties on equipment ranging from 1-5 years depending on components. Extended warranty options available.
After-service support
Complimentary follow-up inspection at 3 months, written electrical safety certification, and priority response for any issues related to the installation.
Our equipment and partners
We establish strategic partnerships with industry-leading manufacturers to offer superior switchboard upgrade solutions with exceptional quality, reliability, and the best warranties and technical support.
Trusted switchboard upgrade partners
Our packages and pricing
Our switchboard upgrade solutions start from $800. We offer several packages to meet different needs and budgets.
Essential safety upgrade
$800 - $1,400
Basic switchboard modernization focused on essential safety improvements.
Includes:
- Replacement of ceramic fuses with circuit breakers
- Installation of safety switches for light and power circuits
- Basic surge protection
- Circuit labeling and testing
- Electrical Compliance Certificate
Standard switchboard replacement
$1,500 - $2,800
Complete switchboard replacement with enhanced safety features and capacity.
Includes:
- Full replacement with modern distribution board
- Safety switches on all circuits
- Dedicated circuits for major appliances
- Comprehensive surge protection
- Increased capacity for future expansion
- Full electrical system testing
Premium switchboard solution
$3,000+
Advanced switchboard with smart monitoring and maximum protection.
Includes:
- High-capacity distribution board with premium components
- Individual circuit protection with selective coordination
- Smart energy monitoring system with app integration
- Three-phase power capability (where available)
- Complete lightning and surge protection package
- Extended warranty options and maintenance plan
Custom solutions available
We understand that every project is unique. Contact us for a personalised quote tailored to your specific requirements and budget.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my switchboard needs upgrading?
Common signs include ceramic fuses, frequent circuit trips, limited capacity for new appliances, lack of safety switches, or a switchboard over 25 years old. If you notice any of these indicators, or if your home still has an older-style fuse box, it's time for an assessment. Our qualified electricians can inspect your existing setup and recommend appropriate upgrades based on your current and future electrical needs.
How long does a switchboard upgrade take?
A standard switchboard upgrade typically takes between 4-8 hours, depending on the complexity and size of your electrical system. For complete replacements or larger homes, it may extend to a full day. We work efficiently to minimise disruption, and most upgrades can be completed in a single visit. Power outage during the upgrade is necessary but we plan carefully to minimise inconvenience.
Will I need council approval for a switchboard upgrade?
Generally, switchboard upgrades don't require council approval as they're considered maintenance or minor works. However, if your upgrade is part of a major renovation or requires significant changes to your electrical supply, additional approvals may be needed. Our team will advise you on any requirements during the initial assessment and handle all necessary compliance paperwork, including providing a Certificate of Compliance upon completion.
What's the difference between circuit breakers and safety switches?
Circuit breakers protect your wiring and appliances from electrical overloads by cutting power when too much current flows through a circuit. Safety switches (RCDs or Residual Current Devices) are designed to protect people from electric shock by detecting tiny current leaks and shutting off power within milliseconds. A modern switchboard should include both: circuit breakers for equipment protection and safety switches for personal protection. Current Australian standards recommend safety switches on all circuits.
Can I upgrade my switchboard in stages to spread out the cost?
While a complete upgrade provides the best safety and functionality benefits, we understand budget constraints and can develop a staged approach. We typically recommend addressing critical safety issues first, such as installing essential safety switches, then progressing to capacity upgrades and additional features. Our electricians can design a multi-phase upgrade plan that prioritises safety while accommodating your budget.
Ready to get started?
Contact our team today to discuss your switchboard upgrade needs and get a free quote.
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Our switchboard upgrade areas
We provide switchboard upgrade services across the entire Northern Beaches and surrounding suburbs.
Find your local area below: