Power Conversions and Upgrades
Ensuring electrical safety is crucial for homeowners, and the risk increases with aging appliances and wiring. Exceeding the rated capacity of wiring can lead to safety hazards, including electrical fires. Therefore, upgrading the mains power supply may become necessary. Typically, older homes are more prone to requiring this upgrade. While the process is not overly complex, it must be handled by a qualified electrical contractor to ensure safety.
When should you upgrade your mains power?
It is necessary to upgrade the mains power supply when there is a significant increase in electrical usage within the household. This can occur due to various factors:
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The purchase of high-power appliances that draw more electricity into the house.
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Installation of a pool, spa, or an upgrade to air-conditioning systems in older homes that may require a mains power upgrade to accommodate the increased load safely.
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Large-scale renovations, such as adding extra rooms, that result in a higher demand for electricity and thus necessitate a mains upgrade.
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When selling your house, considering a mains upgrade can provide increased load capacity, enabling greater options for air-conditioning and appliances, ultimately adding value to your property.
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The introduction of electric vehicle (EV) chargers, which create an additional load on the electrical system, may also require a mains upgrade.
What's involved in a mains power upgrade?
To upgrade the mains power, the cables connecting the switchboard/meter box to the point of supply, such as a power pole or a green box on the street, need to be replaced. The process typically involves upgrading the power from single phase to three phase, whether underground or overhead. The transition to three phase provides several advantages, including a more stable power supply capable of handling heavier loads, and increased efficiency.
In cases where a new underground power run is necessary, Malta Group offers trenchless technology that minimises disruption to your garden. This technology allows us to drill beneath driveways, paths, ponds, and other areas that would normally be challenging or impossible to access, reducing the mess caused by the upgrade.
After the singe to three phase upgrade, the cables linking your switchboard to the mains power will also be upgraded to support a higher electrical load. Depending on the age of your house, you may need to upgrade your old switchboard as well.
