Does your business need an Electrical Distribution Board (EDB) upgrade? Jarlam Electrics specialises in this area and can expertly guide you through the process.

What Are Electrical Distribution Boards?

Electrical Distribution Boards (EDBs), also known as customer units or ceramic fuse boxes, are critical components in any electrical system. They distribute electricity to different circuits within a building, while also controlling and protecting the wiring and equipment connected to those circuits.

Most EDBs are centrally located and can be upgraded to modern switchboards with advanced safety features, improving reliability, safety, and performance.

Types of Electrical Distribution Boards and Circuit Breakers

There are several types of electrical distribution boards, such as:

  • Main distribution boards (MDBs), 
  • Sub-distribution boards (SDBs), 
  • Final distribution boards (FDBs)
  • Motor control centres (MCCs). 

Your electrical system and needs will determine what kind of panel you need to update.

  • MDBs distribute power from the main supply point.
  • SDBs deliver power to specific areas or circuits.
  • FDBs feed power to individual devices.
  • MCCs control and distribute power to large electrical loads like motors.

Why Upgrade your Electrical Distribution Board?

You might need to update your electrical distribution board for a number of reasons. Following are some of the most famous ones:

Age

The average lifespan of an electrical distribution board is 20–30 years. Older units often contain outdated porcelain or ceramic fuses, which are now considered safety risks. Frequent blown fuses may indicate overloads, highlighting the need for an upgrade. If your EDB is nearing or has passed its expected lifespan, it may be time to consider upgrading.

Increased Demand

If you have added new appliances or circuits to your electrical system, your EDB may not be able to keep up with the greater demand on your power supply, power circuits, and power outlets. Upgrading your EDB provides the capacity to handle additional power demands safely.

Changes in Regulations

Electrical rules constantly change, and your EDB may no longer meet the most current requirements, including compliance with Australian Standards and current regulations. By upgrading your EDB, you can ensure that your electrical system is up to date and follows all rules. Failure to comply with these standards may result in receiving an electrical defect notice, which requires prompt action to address safety and compliance issues.

Steps Involved in an Electrical Distribution Board Upgrade

Upgrading an Electrical Distribution Board is a complicated process that must be planned and carried out carefully. Here are the steps in the process of upgrading:

Assessment

Assessing your current system is the first step in upgrading your Electrical distribution board. This involves figuring out the age and quality of you existing EDB and your current electrical needs.

Planning

After your current EDB has been assessed and the appropriate upgrade is chosen, you’ll need to plan your update. It’s important to consult with electrical contractors and/or qualified electricians to ensure your planning meets all safety and compliance requirements. This means figuring out what size and type of EDB upgrade you will need and where the new unit will go.

Installation

You must remove the old EDB and install the new one. Usually this means turning off the primary power source, rewiring the wires, installing the new EDB.

Testing and Certification

Once the installation is complete, comprehensive and thorough tests will need to be carried out to ensure the new EDB functions correctly and complies with all applicable regulations and current regulations.

 Certification may require documentation from professional electrical services. After several tests and checks, the unit is usually given the green light to be used.

Benefits of an Electrical Distribution Board upgrade

Upgrading your EDB can provide several benefits, including:

  • Safety: A defective or obsolete EDB poses a significant safety risk, including the possibility of electrical shock or fire. Upgrading your EDB ensures that your electrical system complies with the most recent safety standards and regulations, reducing the likelihood of electrical hazards including; electrical shocks, fires, and system failures.
  • Compliance: Electrical rules and safety standards are always changing, and an EDB that isn’t up-to-date may not meet the latest codes and regulations. By upgrading your EDB, you can make sure that all of your electrical systems are not only up-to-date but safe.
  • Increased Capacity: An upgraded EDB can handle more electricity, which is especially important if you add new tools or circuits to your home or building. It can also help prevent circuits from overheating and circuit breakers from tripping too often.
  • Efficiency: A new EDB can help ensure that your electrical system works well, lowering your energy bills and saving you money in the long run.
  • Reliability: An old EDB might frequently break down or stop working, which can be not only inconvenient and annoying but expensive. By updating your EDB, you can have an electrical system that works more efficiently and reliably.

Why Do I Need to Do a Switchboard Upgrade?

  • The number of electrical devices in our residences and businesses has increased to the point where old switchboards and outdated electrical distribution boards are no longer sufficient, making upgrades necessary.
  • The level of protection provided by older overcurrent protective devices (circuit breakers) is inferior to that of their modern counterparts. Perhaps a main switchboard upgrade is needed.
  • Contribute to a secure working and/or living environment for all building occupants.
  • Aid in the elimination of one of the most prevalent electrical fire hazards.
  • Help protect your electronic equipment from damage. If your existing switchboard is outdated or you still have a traditional fuse box, switchboard replacement may be required.
  • Enhance energy conservation.
  • “Building regulations” ensure home electrical systems satisfy current health and safety standards. To confirm, a professional must install or test all electrical work; this may necessitate an upgrade.

When you upgrade your switchboard, be aware that you may incur additional costs or face additional costs, especially if rewiring or other compliance work is needed.

When Should I Upgrade Electrical Switchboard?

  • If your facility was constructed before the 1980s, it is likely to have electrical systems that are no longer functional.
  • Even for newer facilities, if you observe electrical issues such as flickering lights, circuit protection devices failing, circuit breakers trip frequently, or problems with electrical circuits, it is crucial to have them inspected.
  • If you are adding to your existing electrical installations or making significant modifications, you must consult a qualified electrician to ensure compliance with building regulations, proper management of electrical current, and that all existing circuits are up to standard.
  • Landlords must conduct regular inspections at least once every five years and whenever a tenant moves out.

If any serious issues are detected, it is important to arrange for urgent repairs or upgrades to prevent further hazards.

Electrical Safety Considerations

A distribution board upgrade is a potentially hazardous task that only a qualified electrician should perform.

 Managing electrical currents safely and ensuring proper circuit protection is critical during upgrades. Before beginning the switchgear upgrade, the electrician must ensure that the power to the panel has been disconnected to avoid the risk of electric shock. They must also wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) throughout the installation process and adhere to stringent safety procedures.

During the upgrade, the electrician will ensure that all wiring and components are correctly installed and that all safety features, such as circuit breakers and surge protectors, are in working order to protect electrical equipment.

 Qualified electricians and licensed electrical contractors play a vital role in ensuring all work meets safety standards and compliance requirements.

Should you need an Electrical Distribution Board Upgrade Jarlam Electrics are here to help 

Upgrading your Electrical Distribution Board is essential to maintain a safe, reliable, and efficient electrical system in your home or building. It is recommended to consult with a licensed electrician, such as Jarlam Electrics, to assess your EDB and determine if an upgrade is necessary. Feel free to contact our team at Jarlam Electrics for more information.