Industry Standards
Industry Standards | Electric Panel Upgrades | Electrical | Newcomb
When your home’s power demands have outgrown an aging breaker box, HEP brings industry-standard expertise right to your doorstep in Newcomb. Our licensed electricians assess load requirements, identify hidden hazards, and design seamless electric panel upgrades that give every appliance the steady, safe current it needs. From smart-home integrations to the latest surge protection, we modernize your electrical backbone while honoring local codes and the stringent quality benchmarks that define HEP.
The process is hassle-free: we arrive on time, handle permits, perform precision installation, and leave your space cleaner than we found it—backed by clear communication and transparent pricing. Whether you’re adding a hot tub, finishing a basement, or simply craving peace of mind, our electric panel upgrades deliver the capacity and reliability to power life’s next chapter. Contact HEP today and flip the switch on a safer, more efficient home.
FAQs
Why might I need an electrical panel upgrade for my Newcomb property?
Older switchboards were built for smaller electrical loads—often just a few lighting circuits and basic appliances. Modern homes in Newcomb typically run air-conditioning, induction cooktops, EV chargers, pool pumps and multiple electronics. When an outdated board is forced to carry these loads it can overheat, nuisance-trip or fail to provide adequate protection against electric shock. Upgrading to a higher-capacity, RCD-protected panel ensures your system complies with current safety requirements, reduces fire risk and provides spare capacity for future circuits.
Which industry standards and regulations apply to panel upgrades in Newcomb?
All work must comply with AS/NZS 3000:2018 (the Wiring Rules) as adopted in Victoria, plus any amendments issued by Energy Safe Victoria (ESV). Your electrician must also follow the Victorian Service and Installation Rules, which set requirements for the point of supply, metering and main switchboard layout. If surge protection or solar PV is involved, AS/NZS 4777 and AS/NZS 1768 may also apply. After completion, a Certificate of Electrical Safety (COES) must be lodged with ESV and the work is subject to audit.
How can I tell if my current switchboard is outdated or unsafe?
Warning signs include: (1) plug-in fuse carriers or porcelain rewireable fuses instead of modern circuit-breakers; (2) absence of RCD/RCBO protection on lighting and power circuits; (3) scorch marks, buzzing noises or a noticeable burning smell; (4) frequent tripping when multiple appliances run; (5) visible aluminium or cloth-insulated conductors; and (6) a main switch rated below 63 A for a home with large loads. A licensed electrician can perform a load calculation and insulation resistance test to confirm whether an upgrade is necessary.
What is involved in the panel upgrade process and how long does it take?
A typical domestic upgrade involves: (1) site assessment and load calculation; (2) isolating the supply via the network distributor; (3) removing the old panel and backboard; (4) installing a compliant switchboard enclosure, service fuses, main isolator, RCD/RCBOs and surge protection; (5) labelling circuits and updating the MEN link; (6) reconnecting the consumer mains and testing polarity, earth resistance and RCD trip times; and (7) issuing a COES and scheduling a final inspection. Power is usually off for 3–6 hours, and the entire job—including inspection—can often be completed in one day for a standard home.
Will I need permits or an inspection for a switchboard upgrade in Newcomb?
Yes. In Victoria, any work on the main switchboard is prescribed electrical work. Your electrician must lodge a Certificate of Electrical Safety and book an independent inspection unless they are a Type B inspected contractor. The network distributor (e.g., Powercor) may also require a Service and Installation Rules (SIR) application if the supply capacity or metering configuration changes. Homeowners do not have to organise permits themselves, but should ensure their contractor provides copies of all certificates and inspection reports.
What does an electric panel upgrade cost and what factors influence the price?
For a typical three-bedroom home in Newcomb, expect $1,400–$2,500 including materials, COES and inspection. Costs rise if you need: (1) new consumer mains to increase supply capacity; (2) three-phase upgrade for large HVAC or EV charging; (3) meter panel relocation or asbestos board removal; (4) surge diverters or smart RCBOs; or (5) additional sub-boards in sheds or extensions. A detailed quote should list the enclosure rating (IP rating, fire-retardant), number and type of RCBOs, surge device class and any trenching or network charges.