Needing an Electrical Distribution Board Upgrade? Jarlam Electrics are the experts in this area and can guide you through this process.
What Are Electrical Distribution Boards?
Our team at Jarlam Electrics have a vast amount of experience with Electrical Distribution Boards. They are also called customer units or ceramic fuse boxes and are an important part of any electrical system. They send electricity to different circuits in a building and control and protect the wiring and equipment that uses electricity. Most electrical distribution boards are in a central position and can be upgraded to make them safer, more efficient, and less likely to break down.
Types of Electrical Distribution Boards
There are several types of electrical distribution boards, such as:
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Main distribution boards (MDBs),
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Sub-distribution boards (SDBs),
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Final distribution boards (FDBs)
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Motor control centres (MCCs).
Your electrical system and needs will determine what kind of panel you need to update.
MDBs are the main place where electricity is distributed, and they are generally close to where the electricity comes from. SDBs are used to send power to specific places or circuits in a building, while FDBs are used to send power to individual electrical devices. MCCs are used to control and send power to big electrical loads like motors.
Reasons for Upgrading an 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 between 20 and 30 years. If your EDB is getting close to or has reached the end of its projected life, it may be time to upgrade.
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. Your machine will be able to handle the extra work if you upgrade it.
Changes in Regulations
Electrical rules constantly change, and your EDB may no longer meet the most current requirements. By upgrading your EDB, you can ensure that your electrical system is up to date and follows all rules.
Steps Involved in an Electrical Distribution Board Upgrade
Upgrading an EDB 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 improving your EDB. This means figuring out how old and good your present EDB is and your current electrical needs.
Planning
After you’ve looked at your system and decided what to do, you’ll need to plan your update. This means figuring out what size and type of new EDB you will need and where the new unit will go.
Installation
You must remove the old EDB and put in the new one to set it up. Usually, this means turning off the primary power source, rewiring the wires, and putting in the new EDB.
Testing and Certification
Once the installation is complete, it will be necessary to test the new EDB to ensure it functions correctly and complies with all applicable regulations. After several tests and checks, the unit is usually given the green light to be used.
Benefits of Upgrading an Electrical Distribution Board
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.
- Compliance: Electrical rules and safety standards are always changing, and an EDB that isn’t up-to-date might not meet the latest codes and regulations. By upgrading your EDB, you can make sure that all of your electrical systems are up-to-date and follow all rules.
- 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 stop circuits from getting too hot 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 break down or stop working often, which can be inconvenient and expensive. By updating your EDB, you can have an electrical system that works better and is less likely to break down.
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 more than outdated distribution boards are needed.
- 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.
- 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 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 or tripping safety switches, 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.
- Landlords must conduct regular inspections at least once every five years and whenever a tenant moves out.
Safety Considerations
A distribution board upgrade is a potentially hazardous task that a qualified electrician should only perform. 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 don 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.
Should you need an Electrical Distribution Board Upgrade Jarlam Electrics are here to help
In conclusion, 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.