Electrical switchboard upgrade

Discussion in 'Repairs & Maintenance' started by mikey7, 10th Sep, 2016.

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  1. mikey7

    mikey7 Well-Known Member

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    Hi all,
    I'm getting quotes to get some work done on an IP that is due to settle in 2 weeks.

    The main item that I want installed is a 5kw reverse cycle split system. I've just received the quote for that as being $2300 all up.

    Accompanied with that quote was another quote for having the switchboard upgraded. The house was built in the 70's and I doubt it's had any upgrade since built.
    I haven't seen the switchboard (I'm asking for photos), but its been described as being in 'average shape (at best)'. It's 'recommended' that I upgrade as a way of 'reducing the amount of unplanned maintenance at the property that can be associated with these old switchboards'.

    Reading up on older switchboards, they can apparently trip fairly easily when using more power hungry items at the same time (like the aircon and washing machine if on same circuit).

    The only other items that I plan on installing are ceiling fans in each of the rooms (x4).

    What would you guys do in this situation? My thoughts are that I wait and see if the tenants are having issues with the switchboard tripping all the time, before I do an upgrade?

    EDIT: The quote for the switchboard upgrade is $800.
     
  2. Scott No Mates

    Scott No Mates Well-Known Member

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    Price sounds reasonable but what is the scope of works? How many circuits are there? Is the ac 3 phase? Is the load being rebalanced? Is a wiring upgrade required too? Has earth leakage been checked?
     
  3. mikey7

    mikey7 Well-Known Member

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    Thanks for reply, @Scott No Mates

    This is what is listed on the quote, if that answers any of your questions? I'm really not sure..

    Scope of Works - Switchboard Upgrade

    Isolate Power Supply (power will be off to the property while these works are completed).
    Disconnect and remove existing metering and aged fuse board.
    Supply and install new Fire Rated Switchboard Backing (in existing housing)
    Supply and install new Switchboard Enclsoure complete with:

    - Main Switch
    - Safety Switches for Power and Light Circuits
    - Circuit Breakers for Oven and Hot Water Circuit
    - Spare capacity as required by wiring rules

    Supply and install new Isolation Link to meet Energex requirements
    Rehang existing Energex Meters

    Item Quantity
    Plastic loadcentre less door surface 1row 12pole full grid 1.00
    METER TEST ISOLATION / DISCONNECT LINK 1.00
    MCB/RCD.RCBO 1P 6KA C-20A 30MA A-CLASS 2.00
    MCB/RCD.RCBO 1P 6KA C-10A 30MA A-CLASS 1.00
    MCB.6KA 40A 1 POLE / 1 MODULE 1.00
    MCB.6KA 20A 1 POLE / 1 MODULE 1.00
    Fire Rated Backing Panel 1.00
    Misc- General 1.00
    Electrical Technician
     
  4. Magnet

    Magnet Well-Known Member

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    If it were me I would do the upgrade. We have a 1960s unit and recently did this. We don't have aircon and the power trips in winter due using heaters, as well as the usual appliances that come with modern life. Ours cost 1000 so your quote is pretty reasonable.
     
  5. Scott No Mates

    Scott No Mates Well-Known Member

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    Quote looks ok only unknown is earth leakage.
     
  6. mikey7

    mikey7 Well-Known Member

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    Are earth leakage switches required? What would be the benefit of having it over not having it?
     
  7. Scott No Mates

    Scott No Mates Well-Known Member

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    Mandatory afaik. Fewer fried tenants.
     
  8. mikey7

    mikey7 Well-Known Member

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    Ahh gotcha! Will make sure that's installed as part of it all then, thanks
     
  9. WattleIdo

    WattleIdo midas touch

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    I was quoted 1K too so 800 see m s pretty good considering.
     
  10. Tools

    Tools Well-Known Member

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    Location:
    In the lounge
    RCD = earth leakage

    Tools
     
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