Replacing an outdated fuse board with a modern, safe switchboard
A homeowner in Donvale contacted Kenner Electrics to replace their old fuse board and bring their switchboard up to current safety standards. The home’s electrical system was due for an upgrade, and the customer wanted to make sure everything was explained clearly before going ahead. We were more than happy to take the time to walk them through each part of the process, including the Home Electrical Safety Inspection (HSI) and the switchboard upgrade itself.
Why You Should Upgrade Your Switchboard
Outdated fuse boards increase the risk of shock, fire and electrical faults
Old fuse boards — especially those with ceramic fuses — don’t offer the same level of protection as modern safety switches. They often lack proper overcurrent and earth leakage protection, which means faults can go undetected, increasing the risk of electric shock, fire, or appliance damage. Upgrading your switchboard ensures your home meets today’s safety standards and can safely support modern appliances like air conditioning, induction cooktops, and EV chargers. It also improves convenience, as modern RCBOs isolate only the affected circuit in the event of a fault, instead of cutting power to the whole house.
Safe and Compliant Switchboard Installation
New enclosure, RCBOs and surge protection for better safety and reliability
The existing fuse board was replaced with a new surface-mounted switchboard enclosure, providing more space and better protection for the home's circuits. We installed a 63A main switch, as well as seven Hager RCBOs (2x10A, 4x16A, and 1x25A) to give each subcircuit its own combined safety switch and overcurrent protection. This means that if one circuit trips, it doesn’t take the rest of the house with it — improving both safety and convenience.
We also fitted a single-phase surge protector to help safeguard the home’s electronics and appliances from damaging voltage spikes caused by storms or power fluctuations.
Handling Asbestos and Complex Metering Safely
Professional cable extensions and asbestos removal arranged on site
Asbestos was present around the old meter panel, so we arranged for safe removal early in the day. During the upgrade, we ran into a small issue — the neighbouring unit’s meter was housed in the same enclosure, and their mains cable turned out to be too short to refit safely. After trying to work around it, we ultimately extended the neighbour’s cable behind the new panel to ensure everything was safe, compliant, and secure.
Tested, Inspected and Certified to Victorian Standards
Independent inspection and Certificate of Electrical Safety provided
Once the installation was complete, we carried out thorough testing and commissioning, and the system passed its independent electrical inspection. A Certificate of Electrical Safety was issued, confirming the home’s new switchboard was fully compliant with Victorian safety regulations.
Clear Communication and Customer Support
Taking the time to explain every step — even across language barriers
During the visit, the homeowner also requested a Home Electrical Safety Inspection, which we completed and clearly explained. As English wasn’t their first language, we took extra time to go through everything and answer their questions in a way that was easy to understand.
Need a Switchboard Upgrade in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs?
Kenner Electrics delivers safe, compliant upgrades with expert advice
Outdated fuse boards don’t offer the protection that modern homes need. If you’re experiencing frequent tripping, or your switchboard hasn’t been looked at in years, it could be time for an upgrade. At Kenner Electrics, we deliver safe, compliant switchboard upgrades across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs — with friendly service and expert advice from start to finish.
Call us on 📞 9996 0663 to book your switchboard upgrade today.
