Why Every Safety Switchboard Needs a Check-up
I recently upgraded a switchboard for a client, and it instantly revealed a hidden fault in the wiring to one of their lights. If it weren’t for the new safety switch, we might never have noticed the issue — one that could have caused a serious accident down the line. This is just one example of how safety switches do much more than protect you from immediate shocks; they can uncover potentially dangerous problems lurking in your home’s electrical system.
What Is a Safety Switch?
A safety switch, also known as a residual current device (RCD), monitors the flow of electricity in your circuits. If it detects any leakage or imbalance — like when electricity escapes through a person who’s being shocked — it will trip and cut the power within milliseconds. This prevents the risk of serious injury or even death, which is why safety switches are such an important part of your home's electrical system.
Protecting You and Your Family
The main job of a safety switch is to protect people from electrical shock. Think of it as a safety net — it detects dangerous situations like a faulty appliance or water getting into electrical circuits. Whether it’s your kids plugging in a device or the dog chewing on wires (yes, it happens!), a safety switch could be the difference between a close call and a major tragedy.
Why It’s Important to Keep Your Safety Switches Up to Date
In Australia, all domestic residences must be sold with safety switchboards. However, having a safety switch installed doesn’t mean it will continue to protect you indefinitely. Over time, wiring and electrical components can deteriorate, and safety switches can malfunction — leaving your home at risk. That's why regular checks are key to making sure your safety switches are still in good working order.
At Boys Light Up Electrical, we offer free safety switch checks for all Geelong homes — a gift from our family to yours. We want to ensure that every home is protected, and that your safety switches are up to date and functioning properly.
How We Ensure Your Safety Switches Are Working
When we check your safety switches, we test each one to make sure it trips when it should and that it meets the latest safety standards. We’ll also inspect your switchboard and wiring to ensure everything is in good condition. If there’s a problem, we’ll explain exactly what needs to be fixed and help you take the necessary steps to keep your home safe.
Protecting Your Home’s Electrical System
Safety switches not only protect you from shock but also guard your home’s electrical system. Wear and tear, power surges, and even old wiring can create faults that might not be immediately obvious but could lead to fires or further electrical damage. A working safety switch will alert you to hidden hazards before they can cause real problems.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Safety switches are there to protect you — but only if they’re in good condition. Don’t wait for an emergency to find out your safety switches aren’t working. Book your free safety switch check with us today, and make sure your home is as safe as it should be.