Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency | Electric Panel Upgrades | Electrical | Mascot
Whether you’re adding a new EV charger, dreaming of a future-proof smart home, or simply tired of tripped breakers, HEP’s electricians in Mascot make it easy to level-up your switchboard. Our electric panel upgrades replace aging, inefficient boards with modern load-balancing technology that delivers clean, steady power and slashes wasted energy. You’ll enjoy faster appliance start-ups, reduced fire risk, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing every circuit is protected by the latest safety devices.
From the first inspection to the final compliance sign-off, we manage the entire upgrade with minimal disruption to your routine. Our team recycles obsolete components, labels every circuit for easy troubleshooting, and shows you how to monitor your new panel’s performance for even greater savings. Choose HEP and discover just how efficient, safe, and future-ready your Mascot home or business can be.
FAQs
Why should I consider upgrading my electric panel for energy-efficiency in Mascot?
Most homes and businesses in Mascot that were wired more than 20 years ago were designed for lower electrical loads. Modern energy-efficient appliances, solar inverters, battery storage and EV chargers all demand more capacity and cleaner power. A panel upgrade increases the available amperage, replaces aging fuse or circuit-breaker technology, and provides safer, lower-resistance connections. Together these improvements minimise voltage drop, reduce standby losses, and allow you to run high-efficiency equipment without tripping breakers or over-heating cables—delivering both safety and measurable power-bill savings.
What warning signs tell me my switchboard or panel needs an upgrade?
Common indicators include: frequent breaker trips or blown fuses; lights dimming when large appliances start; warm or buzzing breakers; scorch marks or rust inside the board; a lack of safety switches (RCDs); visible porcelain fuses; or an electrical installation certificate older than 25 years. If you are planning to add solar PV, an EV charger, ducted air-conditioning or three-phase machinery, the existing panel may also be undersized even if it appears to work fine now.
How much does an electric panel upgrade cost in Mascot and what affects the price?
Residential upgrades typically range from $1,800 to $4,500, while small commercial switchboards can be $4,000 to $10,000+. Key cost drivers are: desired amperage or phase upgrade (single-phase 100 A vs. three-phase 80 A), number of circuits, need for a new service mains or consumer mains, meter board relocation or asbestos backing removal, surge protection, and whether Ausgrid requires a service fuse replacement. After a free site assessment we provide a fixed quote so you know the exact investment before work starts.
Will upgrading my panel actually lower my electricity bills?
Direct savings come from reduced line losses and tighter voltage regulation, typically 1–3 % for most homes. The bigger impact is indirect: a modern panel safely supports energy-saving technologies such as rooftop solar, battery storage, smart load-control relays and high-efficiency heat pumps. Without an upgrade, you may be forced to run older, less efficient equipment or pay higher network charges for unbalanced load issues. Over 5–10 years, customers usually recover the upgrade cost through lower consumption and avoided repairs.
Do I need council or network approval, and will your electricians organise it?
In Mascot (City of Bayside, Ausgrid network), a switchboard upgrade that changes the service mains or metering requires: (1) an Ausgrid Notification of Service Work (NOSW), (2) an Electrical Safety Certificate, and sometimes (3) council permission if the enclosure is moved outdoors. We handle the entire compliance process—lodging NOSW forms, coordinating the Level 2 ASP for mains disconnection/reconnection, arranging the energy retailer’s metering contractor, and issuing all certificates. You only need to sign the retailer consent form we prepare.
How long will the upgrade take and will my power be disconnected?
Most residential panels are completed in one working day: 2–3 hours for safe isolation and removal, 3–4 hours for new board installation, then testing and reconnection. Power is generally off for 4–6 hours. For larger three-phase or commercial boards the job may extend to two days, but we can arrange temporary generators or staged change-overs to keep critical circuits live. We schedule the work at a time that minimises disruption and provide advance notice so you can plan around the outage.