Top 5 Warning Signs Your Switchboard Is Overloaded

1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

Circuit breakers are designed to protect your electrical system by cutting power when circuits are overloaded. However, if your breakers are tripping frequently, it signals that your switchboard is struggling to handle the electrical load.



Key points to consider:

• Frequent trips may indicate outdated wiring or circuits.
• Overloaded circuits can lead to overheating and long-term damage.
• A professional electrician can assess the system and recommend a modern switchboard to meet current electrical demands.

By upgrading your switchboard, you can improve its capacity to handle multiple appliances and reduce interruptions to your daily life.

2. Flickering or Dimming Lights

Have you noticed your lights flickering or dimming, especially when using high-powered devices like microwaves or air conditioners? This signifies that your switchboard isn’t evenly distributing power across your home or business.

What to look out for:

• Lights dim when other appliances are in use.
• Flickering lights during normal operation.
• Power surges that cause visible disturbances.



A licensed electrician can rebalance your circuits or suggest an upgrade to ensure your system works efficiently, keeping your lights steady and reliable.

3. Unusual Odour Near the Switchboard

A burning or melting smell near your switchboard is a significant cause for concern. These odours are often caused by overheating components, which, if ignored, could lead to electrical fires.

What to do immediately:

• Turn off the power supply if you detect burning smells.
• Contact a professional electrician for an urgent inspection.
• Avoid tampering with the switchboard, as it could worsen the problem.

Quick action can prevent serious damage and ensure the safety of your property.

4. Buzzing or Humming Sounds

A properly functioning switchboard should operate silently. If you hear buzzing or humming sounds, it’s often a sign of loose wiring, damaged circuits, or overloaded components.

Signs to monitor:

• Persistent buzzing or humming noises near the switchboard.
• Sparks or visible damage when inspecting the area.
• Fluctuations in power supply.

Professional inspections can identify the root cause of the issue and prevent future hazards.

5. Appliances Struggling to Operate

When your appliances fail to function correctly or frequently underperform, your switchboard may be unable to manage the power load effectively. This reduces the lifespan of your appliances and increases energy costs.

Common issues include:

• Frequent power interruptions for specific devices.
• Appliances overheating or shutting down unexpectedly.
• Higher energy bills due to inefficient power distribution.



Upgrading to a modern switchboard ensures all appliances receive stable power, enhancing performance and reducing wear and tear.

Upgrade Your Electrical Switchboards in Ballina Today

At Rob Ward Electrical Services, we understand the critical role a reliable switchboard plays in maintaining the safety and efficiency of your property's electrical system. Our comprehensive services are designed to address and prevent issues associated with overloaded switchboards, ensuring uninterrupted power supply for your home or business. Contact us today!