If you plan to expand your home or add new devices and appliances to your house, you might need to upgrade your electrical switchboard. Also, your switchboard may be old and faulty. To avoid this, you should always get a new one. Newer switchboards are constructed of stronger materials and are therefore more durable. In addition to these benefits, you can save money by hiring a licensed electrician. Listed below are some factors to consider when upgrading a switchboard:
If your property was built more than ten years ago, it might be time for a switchboard upgrade. Not only will an upgraded switchboard improve the safety of your premises, but it will also increase its market value. Residual and Miniature Circuit Breakers are safer alternatives to rewireable fuses. Additionally, they are easier to upgrade in the future. When considering a switchboard upgrade, consider the following:
Integrated Facility System (IFS) switchboards
Considering an IFS upgrade, you’re probably wondering how to do it. IFS switchboards combine multiple pieces of electrical equipment into one compact unit. Typically, there are three pieces: transformers, distribution switchboards, and main breaker panels. While each piece has its specific function, all three are designed to work with Integrated Facility Systems (IFS). These switchboards are also engineered to comply with all national electrical codes.
It’s also essential to inspect individual devices. Check all connections on the busbar and structure. These components can be damaged by exposure to moisture and heat, so it’s essential to inspect them visually before performing any repairs. Also, keep them clean and dry to extend their lifespan. Overcurrent devices should be inspected closely and replaced as necessary. You can order replacement leaflets from Mastin Electrical switchboard upgrade if needed.
Miniature circuit breakers
When looking for a way to improve the safety of your switchboard, you may want to consider using miniature circuit breakers. These breakers have an instant trip capability at 10 to 25 times the rated current. As a result, they are suitable for specific commercial or industrial applications and are usually imported from China. In addition, they have a longer life span than other breakers and can be replaced more frequently.
However, these breakers are not very effective at protecting occupants against electrocution. Their design is not good enough to provide electrocution protection for the occupants of the building. In addition, the contacts of these breakers are not serviceable, so it may be necessary to replace them after a limited number of operations. In avoiding this, it is crucial to upgrade your switchboard to comply with IEC 60439.
RCDs
When you get a Mastin Electrical switchboard upgrade, you can choose to include RCDs. An RCD is an electrical device that automatically cuts the power to an appliance when it detects a fault. This device will cut the power before an electric current deposits a large amount of energy into your body. It is crucial because electrical accidents can happen at any time. If you’re not aware of an electrical fault, it can lead to severe injury or death. RCDs can protect you, your family, and your property from electrocution.
Having RCDs on your switchboard is an intelligent way to protect your home. If you don’t have them, the first thing to do is to find out if your existing switchboard is compatible with RCDs. You’ll know if it’s compatible with a switchboard upgrade if the consumer unit you’re replacing has an RCD. A consumer unit with an RCD will have a button marked T that you need to push to activate.
Safety features
Make sure all the circuit breakers are safety-switchable. It means you can switch off the power to any electrical equipment if needed while saving your life in an emergency. Also, ask a qualified electrician to install safety switches. Although these devices are not mandatory, they will provide peace of mind. And if you can afford it, upgrade to a safer switchboard now! But remember to choose the right one.