Switchboards come in various shapes, sizes, and voltage capacities to suit the different electrical needs of each household or building. Are you wondering if a switchboard upgrade will break the bank? Or is it a surprisingly affordable way to improve your home’s electrical system? Read on for expert advice from a licensed switchboard electrician to find out more.

What Can Affect My Switchboard Upgrade Cost?
The age of your switchboard can directly impact how much it will cost to upgrade. Modern switchboards come with safety switches and surge protectors, designed to prevent damage to your electrical fittings and appliances during a blackout or power surge.

Many older switchboards don’t have safety switches, so you may only need to have one installed onto your existing switchboard. This is the more affordable option compared to upgrading the entire switchboard. A safety switch typically costs between $20 and $70 at retail price.

However, today’s switchboards are also made from materials that are more fire-resistant than the old ceramic models. Worse still, some older switchboards were built with asbestos. In these cases, it’s better to replace the entire switchboard. The cost of a new switchboard can range from $500 to $1000, depending on its size and electrical capacity.

How Do I Know If I Need a Switchboard Upgrade?
If you’re experiencing flickering lights, power surges, frequent outages, or noticing burn marks on your electrical outlets or switchboard, it’s likely there’s an issue with your switchboard or your home’s electrical wiring. If this happens, you should call a qualified electrician immediately to conduct an electrical safety inspection. You can also ask about upgrading your switchboard to prevent potential damage and safety hazards.

Another reason for power surges and flickering electricity could be that your home’s electrical needs have outgrown the capacity of your old switchboard. If that’s the case, you might need to upgrade to a switchboard capable of handling a larger current or have additional circuits added to your existing switchboard. You shouldn’t have to unplug the toaster just to use the kettle!

Choose a Professional When Upgrading Your Switchboard
When it comes to upgrading or installing a switchboard, always choose a licensed, compliant electrician. At AG-E Solutions, we conduct thorough investigations before providing recommendations, ensuring you get the best price and switchboard options for your home. This way, you can rest assured that your home will be running smoothly and safely once more!

Do You Need Ceiling Fans Installed in Your Home or Office in Melbourne?
Call our fan-tastic Melbourne Electricians! AG-E Solutions is here to handle all your electrical needs, from general power faults and fault finding to smoke alarm installation, powerpoints, switchboard repairs, wiring, rewiring, and lighting installation.

What Our Melbourne Electricians Can Offer You:

• All electrical repairs, maintenance, and installations
• Fault finding
• Fixing power supply issues
• Smoke alarm installation
• Powerpoints
• Switchboards
• Wiring and rewiring
• Ceiling fan installation
• Lighting installation
• Professional electrical advice
• Emergency rescue services
• Strata and commercial electrical repairs, maintenance, and installations

Our Melbourne Electricians also provide expert electrical advice on:

• How to keep your home fire safe
• Testing smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly
• What to do in the event of an electric shock
• How to avoid electrical hazards at work
• Electrical safety tips for households with children
• How to save on your electricity bill
• Ensuring electrical safety in your home
• Energy-saving tips
• Knowing when to call an electrician

Why DIY with Electricity is a Bad Idea
Australians are known for being keen DIYers, and while it’s often fine to take on home projects, electrical work should always be left to the professionals. Electricity can be dangerous, and handling it requires the right qualifications and experience. Always contact licensed professionals for any electrical work.

Types of Jobs Handled by an Electrician in Melbourne
Electrical issues often crop up unexpectedly. While some homeowners attempt to tackle these jobs themselves, it’s not recommended. Electrical work can be hazardous and should always be done by licensed professionals. Because electrical problems can arise without warning, it’s helpful to have the number of a trusted local electrician in Melbourne.

If you’ve just moved to a new area, ask your neighbours for recommendations on reliable, reputable electrical companies. You can also search online, though many companies offer similar services, making it tough to choose the right one. It’s a good idea to call the companies, discuss the services they offer, and see if they provide emergency electrical services.

Different Electrical Services
Skilled and experienced electricians in Melbourne can handle all types of electrical issues, including:

• Wiring and rewiring
• Switchboards and powerpoints
• CCTV systems
• Grading and grounding work
• Electric hot water systems
• Smoke alarms
• Circuit breakers
• Fuses and safety switches
• Installation of electrical fixtures and fittings
• Testing electrical installations
• Other electrical services

In short, the electrician you hire should be able to provide the exact solutions you need, when you need them. It’s also important to choose a local electrician to ensure fast service in case of an emergency.

A well-established company will usually have electricians stationed in various locations across Melbourne, and their vehicles are equipped with GPS. This means they can be contacted quickly and will arrive at your location without delay. Their vehicles are fully stocked with the tools, equipment, and materials needed for the job, ensuring that your electrical work is done quickly and efficiently.

Electrical Maintenance Services
Many electrical companies also offer regular maintenance services. By opting for these services, electricians can visit your premises at regular intervals to inspect all your electrical installations and fixtures. This helps prevent issues from arising unexpectedly.

At AG-E Solutions, we’re one of Melbourne’s most trusted electrical companies, with over 30 years of experience providing top-notch services to both residential and commercial customers. With our expertise, we’re able to deliver the right solutions when you need them most.

Do you notice constant power loss on your property whenever you use heavy home appliances such as electric heaters, air conditioners, and the like? Or does the circuit breaker trip every time you run multiple appliances at once? This is a common issue, and many homeowners face problems like these. Typically, it happens when there are older switchboards in the property that aren’t able to supply enough electricity to meet the high demands of modern appliances.

Switchboard Replacement – The Benefits
Not only is the regular power loss frustrating, but it’s also dangerous. Today’s appliances are far more advanced than those used a couple of decades ago, and older wiring and switchboards struggle to cope with the heavy power demand. Upgrading your switchboard has some key benefits, such as:

• The system will keep up with the power demands in your home
• It improves the safety of your electrical system
• It enhances the energy efficiency of your home
• It removes the risk of power outages
• It reduces the risk of electrocution and electrical fires

If your home still has older electrical installations, it’s wise not to delay calling a local electrician in Sydney to check if a switchboard upgrade is needed. The electrician will use specialised detection equipment to assess the age, condition, and efficiency of your switchboard. It’s not uncommon for different appliances to remain plugged in at their respective power points. When there’s a peak in energy usage, a faulty switchboard can result in serious injuries or property damage.

In the past, fuse-style switchboards were common in all electrical systems, but these were not as safe as modern switchboards. Modern switchboards can isolate and control any surges in the electrical circuits of your home in just a fraction of a second, adding an extra layer of safety to your electrical installation.

Switchboard Upgrades – When Do You Need Them?
If your home’s switchboard is 20 years or older, it may still have ceramic fuses rather than the circuit breakers found in modern systems. Today, when you purchase a new high-power appliance for your home, it’s common for a separate circuit breaker to be installed for it, on its own dedicated circuit. A switchboard upgrade helps accommodate the increased power demand. If necessary, you can also add safety switches to the existing switchboard.

When having a switchboard upgrade done, it’s important to hire a reliable and licensed electrician in Sydney. While these are standard services, there may be times when you need 24/7 emergency assistance, so it’s essential to ensure that the electrician you choose can offer this as well.

Children love to explore their surroundings. If you have a young son or daughter, you’ll know that they learn by using their senses – tasting, touching, pulling, pushing, and even climbing on things around your home! But there are some things you need to keep your child safe from. Power points can be a very dangerous hazard in your house; most power points are positioned just at the right height for a crawling baby or toddler, who might be curious to see or touch them.

There are some great ways to childproof potentially hazardous areas and ensure your little ones stay safe from power points, appliances, and wires that could cause electric shocks. AG-E Solutions are experienced electricians in Melbourne who don’t want to see any harm come to your children.

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to prevent a child from accessing a power point and inserting something into it is to buy a plug-in cover. These fit into your power point just like an ordinary plug. They fit snugly into the socket and sit flush against the power point, making them hard for a child to remove. While they might be a bit fiddly for an adult to remove, when it comes to your child’s safety, that’s not a problem.

Alternatively, you could consider outlets with a sliding cover. When you remove a power cord from the socket, the cover slides shut over the outlet, preventing your child from accessing it. If the child pulls the plug out, the cover still slides shut, blocking access. These are more expensive and harder to install, but the electricians at AG-E Solutions in Melbourne can install them for you, ensuring they are properly, safely, and securely fitted.

Your main goal should be to keep your child’s attention away from power points. You could try covering outlets with heavy furniture so your child won’t even notice them. The team are more than happy to help families in the Melbourne area.

In older homes, electricians in Melbourne from AG-E Solutions often find that electrical problems are quite common, but even newer homes can experience electrical issues. Some problems are fairly easy to fix, like changing a light globe or replacing a light fixture, but for more complicated or dangerous jobs, it’s best to leave it to a professional electrician from AG-E Solutions.

Today, the team of electricians in Melbourne from AG-E Solutions want to go over some of the most common electrical issues homeowners may encounter.

Flickering Lights
If you find your lights are flickering or cutting in and out, it could be caused by several different issues, including loose bulbs, loose wiring, the wrong type of light bulb, or broken or frayed wiring. Changing your light globe is simple enough, and most lamps and light fixtures will have the recommended globe listed. However, if the issue is with your wiring, it’s important to have it inspected as soon as possible. Frayed, loose, or broken wires can pose a fire risk, so the team at AG-E Solutions can locate and fix these problems to make your home safe again.

Light Switches That Don’t Work
If you try to turn your lights on and nothing happens, check if the light globe is burnt out and replace it. If the bulb is fine, check that you have power to the light switch by inspecting the fuse box. If everything looks okay in the fuse box, it’s time to contact an electrician in Melbourne, as it could be a potentially serious issue. Don’t ignore problems like this.

Burning Smell
If you smell something burning, turn your power off at the fuse box straight away to cut the power supply and reduce the risk of a fire spreading. Call an electrician immediately as it could indicate frayed wiring, a malfunctioning electrical device, or a power overload.

What Causes a Short Circuit?
A short circuit can sometimes occur in certain electrical appliances plugged into wall sockets, but it could also happen in the wiring concealed in your walls. As these are hidden, they can present a much bigger issue. Here’s how you can identify what’s causing the short circuit.

• If a short circuit occurs, the circuit breaker will trip, stopping the electricity flow in that particular circuit. The first thing you should do is locate your main electrical panel. Once you find it, open the main cover, but avoid touching anything as you could get an electrical shock.
• Check which breaker has tripped; the one that has tripped will be in the “down” position.
• Next, identify which circuit the breaker controls.
• Unplug any appliances or electrical equipment in that room.
• Reset the circuit breaker and check whether the problem has been resolved.

If the breaker trips again, it means the problem is hidden in the walls. However, if it doesn’t trip, the fault likely lies with an appliance or piece of equipment.

To identify the faulty appliance, plug in each appliance one by one and switch on the power to see which one is causing the issue.

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any of these steps, don’t hesitate to call in an expert from AG-E Solutions in Melbourne. They’ll ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and running smoothly.

Power cords use A/C (alternating current), and there are strict specifications regarding the manufacture of these cords, including their size, shape, and the balancing of voltage and current. An A/C power cord has two ends – known as the male and female ends. The female end connects to the electrical appliance, while the male end plugs into the power point. All cords are similar except for the plug end, which determines the type of power cord. A/C power cords come in various types, including polarised, non-polarised, and grounded – just to name a few.

The electricians at AG-E Solutions in Melbourne want to discuss the different types of power cords.

Polarised Cords
Polarised cords have plugs with a specific shape to ensure the electricity flows through the correct wires, acting as a safety feature. The plugs are designed so that the plug can only enter the socket one way. This ensures the electrical poles are safely connected. You’ll notice one of the three prongs is larger than the other two, helping it align properly in the socket.

Non-polarised Cords
All the prongs on a non-polarised cord are the same size, which means the live and neutral wires can connect in a random manner. These cords largely depend on the appliance they are plugged into, so to ensure safety, the appliance must have polarity shut-off and shifting features. Non-polarised cords are more heavily insulated than standard polarised power cords.

Grounded Power Cords
An A/C power cord with either a polarised or non-polarised plug is commonly referred to as a grounded cord. These cords feature plugs with three prongs to divert any stray voltage away from the electrical equipment and users. Grounded power cords offer the highest level of security and safety and should always be used to protect expensive or valuable appliances.

For any concerns about power cords or electrical safety, the team at AG-E Solutions in Melbourne can provide expert advice and assistance.

Most people have a large number of electrical appliances and equipment in their homes and rely heavily on them for various functions. This also means that when something goes wrong with the electrical supply, they want to get it fixed without delay. Unfortunately, electrical issues tend to crop up without warning, and that’s when you’ll start searching for a reliable, local residential electrician.

We at AG-E Solutions have been serving residential and commercial customers across Melbourne for a number of years now, and we know what it takes to provide prompt and reliable services at very reasonable prices. Regardless of your electrical needs, we can cater to them in the best possible way, quickly and efficiently. We always recommend that our customers opt for preventive electrical maintenance services.

It’s one of the best ways to ensure fewer problems arise and avoid dealing with electrical emergencies frequently. By having all electrical installations and fixtures checked regularly, electricians can identify potential issues in the system and address them before they become serious problems.

This can save you a considerable amount of money, time, and trouble. Many electrical installations, such as wiring and circuit boards, are out of sight, meaning people often overlook any issues or may not even realise there’s a problem.

What’s included in preventive electrical maintenance plans?

Apart from the fact that you’ll end up paying a tidy sum to fix issues, some problems like wiring faults can pose fire risks and be a hazard to life and property. With all these aspects in mind, it makes sense to opt for regular electrical maintenance. Here’s what’s typically included in electrical maintenance packages:

• Our electricians will come to your property and check all the main circuit boards.
• They will inspect the wiring in every room of your home.
• Advanced testing equipment will be used to ensure the electrical current is steady.
• We will check whether you’re using the correct type of power points for your appliances and equipment.
• We’ll also check the outdoor lighting installations.
• If you have CCTV installations, the electrician will inspect them to ensure they’re in working order.
• Smoke alarms will be checked thoroughly to ensure they’re functional.
• Data and phone lines will also be tested to make sure they’re in good condition.

High-Grade Solutions

If our electricians find that something is amiss or isn’t functioning properly, they’ll inform you immediately and provide solutions along with a quote for the work. Once you approve the quote, they will carry out the work expertly and efficiently.

For quality preventive electrical maintenance plans, call AG-E Solutions without delay. We provide 24/7 services and offer solutions to both commercial and residential properties. You can reach us on (03) 8729 0771. Alternatively, you can send us your queries via our online form or book a time directly on our website. Check out what our customers are saying [here].

Why You Should Have Your Wiring Checked

Just like getting your car regularly serviced, it’s a good idea to have your home’s wiring checked. Bad electrical wiring, if left unchecked, can be a danger to the safety of your home. That’s why it’s a good idea to have your wiring inspected when moving into an older home. If any renovations have been done, you need to ensure the wiring that may have been changed was done safely and professionally.

The electricians at AG-E Solutions are fully licensed, skilled, and highly trained. Although some people think hiring professional electricians is expensive, the potential damage to your home if a wiring-related problem occurs will cost far more. In the long run, good maintenance of your home’s electrical system will save you a great deal of money. We recommend having the wiring and fixtures in your home checked by professional electricians at least once a year to ensure everything is functioning as it should. This helps to prevent any electrical hazards or faulty wires that could pose a danger to your home and family.

You may not realise it, but light switches, power points, and light sockets are often the most overused devices in your home. Switches are turned off and on many times every day, and power points frequently have plugs either permanently left in or power cords plugged in and removed regularly. Over time, these switches, sockets, and power points can wear out or get damaged from heavy daily use. Inspections for wear and tear should be carried out to ensure they are still functioning safely.

Maintenance of your electrical system by a qualified Melbourne electrician from AG-E Solutions allows an experienced technician to check for burnt-out, uninsulated, or loose wires. We can also make recommendations and offer the most cost-effective solutions, whether you need maintenance, repairs, or replacements. Most electrical wires are hidden behind walls, so you may not be aware of any problems simply because you can’t see the state of your wiring. The team at AG-E Solutions can inspect your wiring and provide you with a full report before it becomes a problem.

Most importantly, never let rogue traders handle your wiring – or anything electrical in your home, such as ceiling fans, lights, or power points. This will only cost you more money in the long run – or, even worse, it could result in thousands of dollars in damage to your home. With AG-E Solutions, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is being cared for by an experienced, professional electrician who warranties their work for life.

The Melbourne electrician team at AG-E Solutions can’t stress this enough – you can’t take chances with electricity.

A small or minor fault today can become a major issue tomorrow – don’t wait until it’s too late! Here are the signs that it’s time to call an electrician.

Circuit breakers and blown fuses

Circuit breakers do trip and fuses blow from time to time, but if you find you’re frequently replacing a fuse or have to reset a circuit breaker regularly, it’s a sign you have an issue. Call AG-E Solutions to find and fix the source of the problem.

Flickering lights

One flickering light is often just a sign that a bulb needs replacing, and you don’t need an electrician for that. However, if the light continues to flicker after you’ve replaced the bulb, or if flickering is happening with multiple lights, it could indicate an issue with your wiring.

A buzzing sound

If you hear a buzzing sound coming from your light switch or power point, it’s a sign of a serious problem that should be looked at by Melbourne electricians immediately.

Electrical shocks

If you receive an electrical shock when turning on a light switch or plugging in an appliance, something is wrong. It could be frayed wiring. Even minor shocks can lead to more significant shocks or even a fire. DO NOT TRY TO FIX THE PROBLEM YOURSELF. You could make a mistake; always call in the professional Melbourne electricians from AG-E Solutions.

A burning smell

Electrical fires have a very distinctive, acrid burning smell. If you catch a whiff of this, it could be an indication of a small fire. However, if you ignore it, the material around the wire causing the smell could catch fire, potentially leading to a house fire.

Discoloured switches and power points

If you ignore the buzzing sound, a small fire that starts behind the light switch or power point might show up as charring or discolouration. If you find an outlet is discoloured, call AG-E Solutions immediately.

Signs that the Wiring in Your Home is Faulty

If you live in an older property, you need to be extra cautious about the wiring in your home. Since the wiring is often concealed behind walls, you can’t easily spot any issues. Here are some signs that the wiring in your home might be faulty:

Fuses blowing or circuit breakers tripping

Circuit breakers are safety devices that prevent fires and electrocution by cutting off the power supply if there is a disruption in the regular flow of electricity in your home. Older homes tend to have fuses that need replacing when they blow. If you find you need to reset or replace these safety devices too often, it’s time to get the wiring examined by an electrician. This is why it’s important to keep the contact details of a reliable local electrician handy.

Dimming/flickering lights

If excessive power is used by an appliance that’s plugged in and switched on, the lights may briefly dim or flicker. This can indicate faulty wiring. In some cases, it could mean your home has an older circuit breaker that needs replacing.

Discolouration of switches and sockets

If a power outlet has a charred surface, this is a very bad sign and needs to be replaced immediately. Faulty wiring or a loose connection can cause arcing in the socket, which may lead to a small fire. This is what causes discolouration in the fitting.

Burning smell

If you smell something burning in your home, don’t ignore it. A short circuit or electrical fire can produce a brief burn and an acrid smell. If you’ve noticed a burning smell but can’t identify the source, it’s important to call in a skilled local residential electrician.

Switches or sockets that give an electrical shock

These are a clear indication that there’s a fault in the wiring at some point. The issue could be in the wiring, the actual outlet, or even in the electrical wiring of a particular appliance.

If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait until it’s too late. Call AG-E Solutions today for a thorough inspection and expert repairs.

Due to the rise of popular TV programs and online DIY shows, many people are now taking matters into their own hands when it comes to home repairs and maintenance. Whether it’s patching a hole in the wall or hanging a door in the bedroom, these tasks often give people a sense of accomplishment and pride. However, when it comes to electrical repairs, DIY should never be attempted!

Without the right training, equipment, and knowledge, it’s extremely dangerous to attempt anything involving electricity. A small mistake can lead to devastating results, from damaging or losing your home to even losing your life. Without a doubt, electrical repairs or installations are best left to the professional Melbourne electricians at AG-E Solutions. Too many people are injured or killed each year due to electrical accidents around the home, with the majority of these incidents being caused by rogue traders or DIY projects. Most of these accidents are relatively minor but still serious, including shocks and burns from touching live contacts and wires.

In most states of Australia – even a simple electrical job must be carried out by a licensed electrician, including:

• Moving existing powerpoints
• Repairing an appliance
• Replacing the plug on the end of a power lead
• Replacing a power point or lighting switch

Electricians in Melbourne are licensed for a reason – to ensure they are fully trained and qualified to carry out work in your home or business. Always hire AG-E Solutions to install powerpoints, ceiling fans, smoke alarms, for any rewiring, fault finding, installing safety switches, and so much more.

If you attempt to deal with an electrical issue yourself and don’t know what you’re doing, you risk endangering your life and the lives of those around you. Electrical problems can be complex, and professional electricians in Melbourne have the skills to analyse each situation and act accordingly.

Letting the technicians from AG-E Solutions handle electrical problems around your home or business ensures the safety of the building, staff, or your family. Trying to fix an electrical appliance yourself might result in damaging it – a qualified electrician from AG-E Solutions can resolve the issue far more efficiently.

The Melbourne electricians at AG-E Solutions are equipped to tackle any electrical repair or installation, from ceiling fans to outdoor lighting. Leaving electrical repairs to the professionals is always the safer option. The technicians from AG-E Solutions can also check the wear and tear on your wiring and identify any potential issues before they become major problems.

While you might think it’s cheaper to tackle the job yourself, the electricians at AG-E Solutions charge a flat fee for the job, not by the hour, saving you a lot of money. AG-E Solutions also provides an upfront written quote, so when you receive your bill, there are no nasty surprises.

By calling in the team from AG-E Solutions, you’re saving yourself time, money, and a lot of hassle. These certified Melbourne electricians offer award-winning service, provide you with a 100% lifetime guarantee on workmanship, and there are no hidden costs.

A lot of people ask our friendly Melbourne electrician team at AG-E Solutions why they should use LED lighting when there are other forms of lighting that are less expensive. We believe the benefits of using LED lighting far outweigh the initial costs in the long run.

So – why should you use LED lighting?

Halogen and incandescent lights generate a lot of heat, with around 80% of the energy they use going towards producing heat. LED lights, on the other hand, are cool to the touch, and most of the energy they use is directed towards lighting. When you use LED lights, you’re not wasting money on the heat generated by the bulb. You’ll also notice the heat in the room stays lower, which helps reduce the costs associated with air conditioning.

LED lights are long-lasting – LED lights can last anywhere between 60,000 and 80,000 hours, while an incandescent bulb typically lasts only about 1,500 hours. LED lights last up to 10 times longer than halogen or fluorescent lights. While the initial costs may be higher, you can expect an LED light to last up to 6 years if left on 24 hours a day, or up to 34 years if used just 4 hours a day.

LED lights are also more environmentally friendly than any other type of lighting. They are 100% recyclable, and no toxic materials are used to make them. Combined with their energy efficiency, they are the environmentally conscious choice for homeowners.

LED lights are very compact and can be as small as just 2mm in diameter. Due to their size, they’re perfect for many stylish lighting designs, and because they’re cool to the touch, they’re ideal for use in small spaces.

LED lights can emit a wide range of colours – meaning you can mimic natural light, choose white LED lights for reading, or opt for a cooler shade to set the mood. You can even arrange small LED lights to create a spotlight effect or a broader, ambient spread.

If you need help with installing or switching over to LED lighting, our Melbourne electrician team at AG-E Solutions is here to help. Contact us today!

We’ve all had to deal with power outages at some point. Sometimes, the issue is caused by an overload on the electrical system, like plugging too many appliances into a multi-socket. Other times, a storm might be the culprit. However, there may be times when you’re left in the dark without any obvious reason, and your electrical appliances won’t work either.

This situation can be incredibly frustrating, especially since we rely on electricity for so many everyday tasks. During these times, you’ll need the services of a reliable local residential electrician. Ideally, it’s best not to wait until something goes wrong before you look up the contact details of a good professional. It’s a good idea to do a bit of research in advance and have the contact information of a reputable company that’s been around for a number of years. Look for one that provides prompt service at cost-effective prices.

Some checks you can conduct

It’s important to remember that all electrical issues should be handled by licensed and insured professionals. Electricity can be extremely dangerous if not dealt with properly. However, there are a couple of quick checks you can try:

• Circuit breaker check: Tripped circuit breakers are one of the most common causes of power loss. Most homes have separate circuit breakers for different areas of the house. If there’s an overload in a particular room or section, the circuit breaker for that area will trip. Simply reset it to restore the power.

• GFCI receptacle: If resetting the circuit breaker doesn’t bring the power back on, try locating the GFCI receptacle (often found in bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor areas). This device is directly connected to the circuits and has a button you can press to see if it restores power.

Other reasons for power loss

Once you’ve gone through these basic steps, the power should come back on. However, if you still find yourself without power, other factors could be at play, such as:

• Faulty wiring

• Termite damage

• Defective circuit breaker

In these cases, it’s best to call the experts at AG-E Solutions to safely and efficiently resolve the issue.

For many years, when it came to your home’s electrical system, it was pretty straightforward. You simply needed Melbourne electricians to install light switches and power points in the right places throughout the house. In many cases, electricians just knew where to place them without being told. But times have changed! With so many new and different electrical devices to consider, a fresh approach to your home’s electrical system is now essential.

If you’re renovating or building, AG-E Solutions has some advice.

If you take a walk through any older house, you’ll quickly recognise where the electrical supply is – even if you’ve never been there before. You’ll find a light switch next to every doorway, and power points are strategically placed around the house. The lighting is usually well-positioned, and you’ll likely find a power point near the TV and fridge.

However, things changed when the internet arrived. The traditional electrical layout was stretched to its limits, and many older homes don’t have enough power points to accommodate all their computers, printers, and other devices. Today, the traditional electrical system is outdated, and many homeowners find they lack the outlets for:

• Printers
• Modems
• USB power points
• Computers
• And, of course, somewhere to charge mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and more.

Throw in a home theatre system, security cameras, or a home automation system, and you have a huge problem. This is where AG-E Solutions can help. If you want to maximise the convenience of all your electronic devices, carefully configuring your home’s electrical system will take some planning.

You’ll need to consider:

• The placement of power points and light switches
• Whether you have a home office or study
• If you’re installing a home theatre or home automation system
• If you need a home security system
• And your lighting needs

For a modern and well-designed electrical setup that meets all your needs, call AG-E Solutions today!

Not many people realise this, but electrical fires are actually quite common and can be extremely devastating. They cause significant damage to property and can even lead to loss of life. There are many causes of electrical fires, and short circuits or power surges in the wiring are among the most common. If there is a damaged power point in your home, it’s important that it be replaced as soon as possible, as these can be a major fire hazard. In most cases, it’s possible to prevent electrical issues from becoming a problem if they are attended to promptly.

What is even more important is that regular electrical maintenance should be carried out on all the electrical fixtures and installations in your home. At AG-E Solutions, we believe that preventive electrical maintenance is something every property owner should consider. As part of these services, we use the latest electrical equipment to inspect every electrical feature in your property and address any issues that may pose a future hazard.

Things to keep in mind

A lack of maintenance and improper use of powerpoints can lead to electrical accidents, which can cause both property damage and serious harm. It’s important that you hire an experienced local residential electrician for the job. Here are some preventive measures you should take to avoid problems with powerpoints:

• Don’t overload powerpoints or connect multiple double adaptors together.

• If you notice any discoloration or damage around the powerpoints or wiring, these should be addressed immediately. Timely inspection is key in these cases.

• Ensure there is proper ventilation around the power boards.

• Make sure there are no loose fittings, as regular use can lead to damage.

• In most cases, constant and rigorous use causes wear and tear on powerpoints, so it’s crucial to handle plugs carefully when removing or inserting them. Always make sure plugs are securely inserted into the powerpoints to avoid loose connections and potential sparking.

• To keep your appliances running smoothly, avoid using excessive adapters or extension cords.

• Powerpoints should be positioned at a safe height to protect children from electrical hazards.

• Ensure that your electrician is installing high-quality power points, power boards, and overload protection devices.

Range of services

It’s important to have the contact details of a reliable and experienced electrician who offers 24/7 services. In addition to power point upgrades, AG-E Solutions handles a wide range of electrical jobs, including:

• LED downlight installations

• Electric hot water system repairs

• Kitchen appliance repairs

• Electrical re-wiring

• Switchboard upgrades

• C-Bus lighting and wiring systems

For any electrical issue, no matter how big or small, trust the experts at AG-E Solutions to keep your home safe and running smoothly.

The answer is simple: if you want that extra security to protect yourself against the possibility of being electrocuted, you need to have a safety switch installed. Safety switches monitor the flow of electricity through the circuit they’re connected to and shut down in a split second if there’s a sudden surge of power. The technicians at AG-E Solutions are fully licensed and can install a safety switch in your home or office.

There are 3 main types of safety switches available:

Switchboard Mounted – These are attached to your switchboard and protect any circuit they’re connected to, along with any appliances plugged into that circuit.

Power Point Safety Switches – These plug into your power points and protect any device plugged into them. For safety, Melbourne electricians recommend that power point safety switches be installed on the first power point after the circuit breaker and are best placed in areas with higher risk, such as the bathroom or a work shed.

Portable Switches – These are used outdoors when working with power tools. They work like a power cord, connecting to the power point at one end and the device at the other.

Older or faulty appliances and tools can trip a safety switch, especially if they are dirty or in poor condition.

How do they work?

If you come into contact with a faulty circuit, you may be at risk of an electrical shock. A safety switch acts as the ‘man in the middle’, standing between you, your appliance, and the power source. It monitors the flow of current, and if a shock current is detected, it will shut down within 300 milliseconds, ensuring your safety.

For peace of mind and extra protection, trust AG-E Solutions to install the right safety switches in your home or business.