Upgrading Your Meter Box: What, How, When, and Why?

When was the last time you checked up on your meter box? If it has been a while, then now is the right time to inspect it.

Don’t just assume that different elements of your electrical system, such as explosion-proof enclosures and electrical cables, are working fine as they can be worn out after a few years. 

If you live in an old house or if your current system cannot meet your family’s needs, then it’s time to update your meter box.

3 Ways to Update Your Meter Box and Electrical System

1. Upgrade the Panel

You can upgrade your panel by bringing more power from the utility to your home. Replace your current meter box and circuit breakers so they can handle more power or replace circuit breakers or electrical panels that are obsolete or damaged.

Doing this enables your electrical system to have more power to distribute without affecting the home’s internal wirings.

2. Adding Extra Circuits

Adding extra circuits can distribute power to your appliances and rooms.

3. Replacing Used Cable, Old Cable Wires, and Receptacles and Adding New Electrical Outlets

You can also update the system by replacing obsolete cables and receptacles and adding new electrical outlets.

3 Risks of Malfunctioning Meter Box and Electrical System

There are several reasons why old, faulty, or malfunctioning wiring represents a considerable problem. Some of these include:

1. Create a Fire Hazard

An old meter box and electrical system can create a fire hazard, putting you and your loved ones at risk. Bad wiring is one of the biggest causes of house fires. When the wiring becomes heated or exposed or when sparks are created, materials around it get ignited, leading to a big fire.

2. Risk of Electrocution Increases

The risk of electrocution increases. If the wiring gets old and there are wear and tear signs, then the electrical current won’t be appropriately distributed. In addition, the insulation may have holes in them. The cases will lead to serious electrocution risks.

3. Short the Appliances

The lifespan of the electrical appliances will be cut down significantly. This is because the faulty wiring won’t be able to manage the power safely. If it did, it could short the appliances.

Further, the faulty wiring and electrical system may not support modern appliances, which will cause microwaves, dishwashers, and washing machines to weak out quickly.

The overall efficiency of your home’s energy will be reduced drastically. This will also show up in your electric bills apart from the appliances getting ruined.

7 Signs that You Need to Update Your Meter Box and Electrical Panel

If you observe any one of the following signs, then it’s time to update your meter box and electric system.

1. Fuses are repeatedly blowing.
2. Breakers are frequently tripping.
3. A tingling sensation whenever you touch any electric appliance.
4. Constant dimming or flickering of lights.
5. A persistent burning smell from an appliance or store.
6. Warm, sparking, or discoloured outlets.
7. No GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in various rooms and areas exposed to moisture, e.g., baths and kitchens.

How Can Effective Building & Consultancy Help You with Your Meter Box?

If you think you are good with power tools and can manage to upgrade your meter box, brush that thought away. It is never a good idea to go down the DIY thing when it comes to handling electricity.

Call Effective Building & Consultancy experts and let them deal with the problem professionally. Do not put your life at risk by trying to do things on your own.

One of the major benefits of updating your meter box and electrical system is that your home and family will be protected from fire hazards mostly caused by overloaded circuits. Moreover, all your modern appliances will also be safe and protected from inefficient power distribution and other problems caused by old electrical systems.

You can also increase the resale value of your home by updating the electrical system. So, don’t procrastinate or ignore your meter box.

Effective Building & Consultancy has electrical inspectors that can do the inspection. We are also partnered with companies that offer a wide range of high-quality power cable types, meter boxes, and other components that will help in updating the meter box and electrical system.

For more information about Sydney building inspection, visit our Help Centre.