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If you’ve just moved into an older home or are looking to renovate one, you’ve probably got a lot on your plate—restoring timber floors, updating the kitchen, maybe even adding some modern conveniences. But one thing that might not be on your radar (but absolutely should be) is the state of your electrical system.
Older homes have a certain charm, but they often come with outdated wiring and electrical systems that aren’t just inefficient but can also be unsafe. Keeping your home’s electrical system up to modern standards is essential for safety, energy efficiency, and making sure you stay on the right side of Australian laws and regulations.
Here’s a guide to the essential electrical upgrades every homeowner should consider for an older property, and why it’s always best to bring in a licensed electrician to handle the work.
The switchboard is the heart of your home’s electrical system. If you’ve got an older home, there’s a good chance your switchboard could use an upgrade. Older switchboards often weren’t designed to handle the electrical loads we demand today with our modern appliances, air conditioning, and technology. Worse, outdated switchboards might not have safety switches, which are now mandatory under Australian law.
Safety switches, or RCDs (Residual Current Devices), protect you from electric shock by cutting off the power in the event of a fault. If your home doesn’t have them, it’s definitely time to upgrade your switchboard. Not only will this protect your family, but it will also ensure your home is compliant with Australian safety regulations.
A qualified electrician can assess your current setup and recommend the right upgrades. It’s a critical investment in your home’s safety, and one that should always be handled by a licensed professional.
Homes built before the 1970s often have wiring that’s not up to modern standards. You may have aluminium or rubber-insulated wiring, which over time can become brittle, increasing the risk of electrical fires. Outdated wiring might not be able to handle the power load of modern homes, and old insulation can pose significant safety risks.
Signs that your wiring needs replacing include flickering lights, outlets that feel warm to the touch, or circuit breakers that trip frequently. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, or if you’re planning a renovation, it’s a good idea to have an electrician inspect your wiring. They can advise on whether a full rewire is necessary or if sections of the house can be updated.
If you’ve ever lived in an older home, you’ll know the struggle of not having enough power points. Decades ago, homes were designed with far fewer electrical devices in mind. These days, we’ve got TVs, computers, kitchen appliances, phone chargers, and more all competing for power.
Overloading power boards or using too many extension leads can be dangerous, as they increase the risk of electrical faults and fires. The best solution is to install additional power points in areas where you need them. A licensed electrician can add extra outlets in your home while ensuring everything is safely connected and compliant with Australian standards.
Lighting has come a long way in recent years, both in terms of energy efficiency and design. If your home still has outdated incandescent or halogen lights, you’re missing out on the benefits of modern LED lighting. Not only do LEDs use up to 85% less energy, but they also last much longer—saving you money on both your electricity bill and replacement costs.
Upgrading your lighting is a simple but effective way to modernise your home. Whether you’re after functional, task-specific lighting for your kitchen or ambient lighting for your living room, an electrician can help design a system that fits your needs while improving energy efficiency.
Another essential electrical upgrade for older homes is ensuring that your smoke alarms are up to code. According to Australian regulations, smoke alarms must be hardwired to your home’s power supply (with battery backup) and interconnected if you’re building, renovating, or selling a home.
If your home still relies on older battery-operated smoke alarms, it’s worth having an electrician install new hardwired units. This will ensure you’re compliant with Australian law and give you peace of mind that your family is better protected in case of fire.
While you’re upgrading your home’s electrical system, it might be worth thinking ahead and incorporating some smart technology. From smart lighting and thermostats to voice-activated devices, these systems can increase your home’s energy efficiency and convenience. An electrician can help install these systems so they integrate seamlessly with your existing wiring.
Upgrading the electrical system in an older home is not a DIY job—it’s something that requires the expertise of a licensed electrician. Not only will they ensure all work complies with Australian standards, but they’ll also handle the necessary safety checks to protect your home and family.
If you’re in need of an electrician to inspect or upgrade your home’s electrical system, head over to ServiceSeeking.com.au. You can find trusted, qualified electricians who are experienced with everything from rewiring and switchboard upgrades to installing new power points and lighting. Get quotes from top-rated tradies in your area and ensure your home is in safe hands.
Don’t put off essential electrical upgrades. Keep your home safe, energy-efficient, and up to code with help from a licensed electrician today!