The Job

We recently completed a downlight installation in Miranda, Sutherland Shire, upgrading the home’s lighting with modern LED downlights.

The customer wanted a cleaner and more modern lighting setup, so our electricians installed new 3-colour LED downlights, using the existing lighting infrastructure where suitable and creating new downlight positions where required.

What We Did

Before starting the installation, our electrician isolated the lighting circuits and checked the existing electrical wiring to make sure it was suitable for the new downlights.

The work included:

• Isolation of the existing lighting circuits
• Testing of the lighting circuits before installation
• Removal of existing light fittings/downlights where required
• Measuring and marking the positions for the new downlights
• Creating new ceiling apertures where required
• Installation of new 3-colour LED downlights
• Connection to suitable existing lighting wiring
• Testing each downlight after installation
• Final testing and commissioning of the lighting circuits

Where existing downlights were being replaced, we matched the existing ceiling apertures wherever possible to achieve a clean finish without unnecessary modifications to the ceiling.

3-Colour LED Downlights

We installed modern 3-colour selectable LED downlights, giving the homeowner more flexibility over the colour temperature of their lighting.

Depending on the selected setting, these downlights can provide a warmer light for relaxed living areas, a neutral light for general everyday use or a cooler white light for areas where brighter task lighting is preferred.

LED downlights are also an excellent upgrade for older homes because they provide bright, even lighting while using significantly less energy than many traditional lighting options.

Getting the Downlight Layout Right

When installing new downlights, getting the spacing and positioning right is just as important as the light fitting itself.

Our electricians measured the new downlight positions before cutting the ceiling apertures to provide even light coverage and a clean, consistent appearance throughout the room.

We also checked the existing electrical circuit before connecting the new lights to make sure the wiring was suitable for the installation.

Electrical Safety & Testing

All lighting circuits were safely isolated before any existing fittings were removed or new ceiling penetrations were made.

Once the new LED downlights were installed, our electricians tested the lighting circuit and individual fittings to confirm everything was connected correctly and operating as intended.

The electrical work was completed with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and Australian electrical safety requirements.

The Result

The Miranda home was left with a cleaner and more modern lighting setup using new 3-colour LED downlights.

The carefully positioned downlights provide improved light coverage throughout the space while giving the homeowner the flexibility to select the colour temperature that best suits their home.

The result is a simple but effective lighting upgrade in Miranda, providing a more modern appearance, improved illumination and energy-efficient LED lighting.

The Problem

A customer in Vaucluse contacted Bright Force Electrical after their dryer failed and tripped the circuit breaker. Although the switches at the switchboard had been reset, the lights throughout the affected area of the property would not come back on.

Our electricians attended to investigate the loss of lighting and identified a short circuit/cable fault between existing electrical points. The property also required an upgrade to its existing three-phase switchboard and electrical protection.

Fault Finding & Electrical Repairs

After investigating the electrical fault, our electricians isolated the damaged section of cabling and determined that part of the affected circuit needed to be rewired.

The repair included:

• Locating and isolating the faulty electrical cable causing the short circuit
• Separating the affected circuit from the existing ground floor circuit
• Installing new 1.5mm² electrical cabling
• Creating a new dedicated circuit for the IXL
• Reconfiguring the existing power point onto the appropriate power circuit
• Installing a new 10A RCBO safety switch to protect the dedicated lighting circuit
• Removing redundant wiring where practical
• Testing and commissioning the repaired and newly configured circuits

This allowed the damaged section of the electrical installation to be safely separated and the affected lighting supply restored.

Three-Phase Switchboard Upgrade

As part of the works, Bright Force Electrical also completed a three-phase switchboard upgrade in Vaucluse.

The existing switchboard equipment was disconnected and removed before installation of new protection equipment, including:

• New three-phase main switch
• Individual RCBO safety switches (electrocution protection devices) for the sub-circuits
• Re-termination and organisation of existing circuit cabling
• Looming and tidying of internal switchboard wiring
• Insulated Bramite backing within the switchboard enclosure
• Full testing and commissioning of the upgraded switchboard

Individual RCBO protection means an electrical fault can be isolated to the affected circuit rather than unnecessarily causing multiple circuits throughout the home to lose power.

Three-Phase Mains Disconnection & Reconnection

The property’s three-phase mains power supply was safely disconnected to allow the electrical upgrade works to be completed.

New three-phase service connectors were installed to provide secure connections between the incoming electrical supply and consumer mains.

Once the work was completed, the three-phase supply was reconnected and tested to confirm correct phasing, secure connections and safe operation before power was restored to the property.

Whole-Home Surge Protection

A new surge protection device was installed at the main switchboard to provide additional protection against damaging electrical surges.

Switchboard surge protection helps protect electrical equipment throughout the home, including TVs, computers, refrigerators, appliances, electrical cabling and lighting, from voltage spikes and transient surges.

Much like airbags in a car, surge protection sits quietly in the background but is designed to protect the home’s electrical system when it matters most.

Safety & Compliance

The switchboard, dedicated circuit, three-phase supply and associated electrical work were completed with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, including switchboard protection, RCD requirements and fire-protective measures.

The insulated Bramite backing, individual RCBO protection, new service connectors and surge protection provide the property with a safer and more modern electrical installation.

The Result

What began as a dryer tripping the circuit breaker and leaving the Vaucluse property without working lights led to the discovery of an underlying cable fault.

Bright Force Electrical located and isolated the short circuit, partially rewired the affected electrical circuit and installed a new dedicated IXL circuit. The property also received a new three-phase switchboard with individual RCBO safety switches, Bramite backing, new three-phase service connectors and whole-home surge protection.

The result was restored lighting, improved electrical safety and a significantly upgraded electrical system for the Vaucluse home.

The Problem

We recently attended a home in Woronora, Sutherland Shire, after the customer had Energy Australia attend the property and identify asbestos material within the existing switchboard.

Older switchboards can contain asbestos-based backing panels and other outdated components. Once asbestos is identified, it needs to be treated carefully, particularly when electrical upgrade work is required in or around the affected area.

Our electricians assessed the existing electrical installation and carried out a single-phase switchboard upgrade, replacing the outdated protection equipment and completing additional safety upgrades to the service fuse and earthing system.

What We Did

The electrical work at the Woronora property included:

• Upgrade of the existing single-phase switchboard
• Installation of a new main switch
• Installation of individual RCBO safety switches (electrocution protection devices)
• Removal and replacement of obsolete switchboard protection equipment
• Installation of new insulated Bramite switchboard backing
• Installation of a new 100A 500VAC service fuse base and holder
• Installation of a new earth stake
• Installation of up to 3 metres of associated earthing cable
• Re-termination and securing of the existing switchboard circuits
• Looming and tidying of internal switchboard wiring
• Testing and commissioning of the upgraded electrical installation

Dealing With the Asbestos Switchboard

The original reason for the customer contacting us was the asbestos identified within the switchboard following EnergyAustralia’s attendance.

With older electrical installations, asbestos-containing switchboard components can be encountered around older fuse panels and backing boards. These materials require appropriate care and cannot simply be drilled, cut or disturbed like a modern switchboard panel.

As part of the electrical upgrade, the switchboard was fitted with new insulated Bramite backing, providing a suitable modern surface for the upgraded electrical equipment.

Upgrading the Switchboard Protection

The existing switchboard internals were upgraded from the older protection equipment to a modern setup incorporating a new main switch and individual RCBO safety switches.

RCBOs provide combined protection against overloads, short circuits and electric shock, giving the home a significantly improved level of electrical protection.

Individual RCBO protection also means that a fault on one protected circuit can be isolated to that particular circuit rather than unnecessarily disconnecting several areas of the home at once.

New Service Fuse Equipment

We also installed a new 100A 500VAC service fuse base and holder as part of the electrical supply upgrade.

The service fuse forms an important part of the incoming electrical supply infrastructure and provides protection between the electricity network and the property’s electrical installation.

Replacing the service fuse equipment alongside the switchboard upgrade gave the property a more complete electrical safety upgrade rather than simply replacing the internal circuit protection.

New Earth Stake & Earthing System

The property’s earthing was also upgraded with the installation of a new earth stake, positioned a safe distance from the home and connected using the required earthing cable.

The earthing system is a critical part of an electrical installation. In the event of certain electrical faults, it provides a path for fault current that assists the property’s protective devices in operating correctly.

For this reason, we don’t just focus on what is visible inside the switchboard when completing an upgrade – the condition and effectiveness of the associated electrical earthing system also needs to be considered.

Fire Protection & Bramite Backing

The new insulated Bramite backing was installed with consideration to the fire-protective requirements of AS/NZS 3000 Clause 2.10.7.

Switchboard wiring and cable entries need to be installed in a way that helps minimise the potential spread of fire should an electrical fault originate within the switchboard.

The associated wiring was therefore properly terminated, organised and tidied as part of the completed installation.

Testing & Electrical Safety

Once the switchboard, service fuse equipment and earth stake were installed, our electricians tested the new protection equipment and associated electrical installation before commissioning the system.

Modern RCBO safety switches are more sensitive than many older protection devices. In some older homes, installing modern protection can expose existing electrical leakage or wiring faults that were previously undetected. If this occurs, further electrical fault finding may be required to locate and rectify the underlying issue.

The completed work was carried out with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and Australian electrical safety requirements.

The Result

What started with EnergyAustralia identifying asbestos in the switchboard at this Woronora home resulted in a broader electrical safety upgrade.

The property received an upgraded single-phase switchboard with a new main switch, individual RCBO safety switches and insulated Bramite backing, along with a new 100A service fuse base and holder and new earth stake.

The completed work left the customer with a safer, cleaner and more modern electrical installation, replacing outdated switchboard equipment and improving both circuit protection and the property’s earthing system.

The Job

We recently attended a home in Cronulla, Sutherland Shire, where the customer wanted a new sauna professionally wired and connected.

The sauna itself was supplied by the customer, and our electricians were engaged to complete the electrical side of the installation, including the required cabling, sauna heater, lighting, switching and a weatherproof isolator.

Because a sauna combines high-powered heating equipment with a hot and potentially humid environment, getting the electrical installation right is particularly important for both safety and reliable operation.

What We Did

Our electricians completed the electrical installation required for the customer’s new sauna, including:

• Running the required electrical cabling for the sauna
• Wiring and installation of the customer-supplied sauna heater/heaters
• Installation and connection of the sauna lighting
• Installation and connection of the required switches
• Installation of a new weatherproof isolating switch
• Checking the electrical supply for suitability
• Checking the integrity of the electrical connections
• Testing and commissioning the completed sauna electrical installation
• Cleaning the work area once the installation was complete

Sauna Heater Installation

The sauna heater is one of the most important parts of the electrical installation and needs to be correctly connected to a suitable electrical supply.

Our electrician ran the required cabling and completed the electrical installation of the customer-supplied sauna heater, ensuring all connections were properly terminated and secured.

The electrical supply was checked as part of the installation before the sauna equipment was tested and commissioned.

Weatherproof Isolator

A new weatherproof isolator switch was installed as part of the sauna electrical works.

The isolator provides a dedicated point where the electrical supply to the sauna equipment can be safely switched off when required, making it easier to isolate the equipment for servicing, maintenance or electrical work.

The mounting location was prepared where necessary before the isolator was securely installed and connected.

Sauna Lighting & Switching

As well as wiring the heating equipment, we completed the electrical installation for the lighting and switching within the sauna.

The required cabling was run to the relevant locations before the lighting and switches were installed and connected, providing the customer with a complete and practical electrical setup for their new sauna.

Electrical Safety & Testing

Saunas operate differently from standard rooms because electrical equipment is exposed to high temperatures and increased moisture levels, making correct equipment selection, positioning and electrical installation particularly important.

Once all cabling, heating equipment, lighting, switching and isolation equipment had been installed, our electricians checked the electrical supply and tested the completed installation to confirm everything was operating correctly.

The electrical work was completed with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and Australian electrical safety requirements.

The Result

The customer-supplied sauna at the Cronulla property was fully wired and electrically connected, including the sauna heater, lighting, switches, electrical cabling and weatherproof isolator.

The customer was left with a professionally completed sauna electrical installation in Cronulla, ready for safe and reliable use.

The Job

We recently completed a bathroom IXL heat, light and fan installation in Beaumont Hills, with the customer looking to improve the ventilation and overall comfort in their bathrooms.

The job involved installing two new heat, light and fan units, along with the required switching and electrical protection at the switchboard.

What We Did

Our electricians installed two new bathroom heat, light and exhaust fan units, including the associated switches and new cabling required for the installation.

As part of the electrical work, we also installed:

• 2 new RCBO safety switches (electrocution protection devices) to provide individual protection for the nominated circuits
• A new 3-pole circuit breaker within the electrical enclosure
• New cabling and connections required for the heat, light and fan units
• New switches to operate the bathroom units

All cabling at the switchboard was properly terminated, secured and tidied before the new equipment was tested and commissioned.

Improving the Bathroom Ventilation

Good bathroom ventilation is particularly important in areas where steam and moisture regularly build up.

The new exhaust fan units help remove warm, moisture-filled air from the bathrooms, reducing condensation and helping prevent ongoing moisture issues. The integrated heat lamps and lighting also give the customer a much more practical all-in-one solution for everyday use.

Electrical Safety & RCBO Protection

Because these units combine heating, lighting and ventilation equipment, it was important that the electrical side of the installation was properly protected.

We installed two RCBO safety switches to provide combined overload, short-circuit and electrocution protection for the nominated circuits.

Once everything was connected, our electricians tested the new circuits, RCBO protection and heat, light and fan units to make sure everything was operating correctly before completing the job.

All electrical work was carried out in accordance with applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and Australian electrical safety requirements.

The Result

The Beaumont Hills home now has two new heat, light and exhaust fan units, giving the bathrooms better ventilation, additional heating and improved lighting in one installation.

With the new RCBO safety protection, circuit breaker, cabling and switching installed at the same time, the customer was left with a clean, safe and professionally completed bathroom electrical upgrade.

The Problem

We recently attended a home in St Ives after the customer completely lost power to the property.

The customer had already checked the switchboard, but none of the circuit breakers or safety switches had tripped, indicating the issue wasn’t simply a tripped circuit inside the home.

Our electricians attended to assess the electrical supply and switchboard. Following our inspection, the property required a three-phase switchboard upgrade and Level 2 electrical work to provide a safe and reliable electrical supply.

What We Did

The existing switchboard and outdated protection equipment were disconnected and removed before we installed a new three-phase switchboard and plastic enclosure.

The upgrade included:

• New three-phase switchboard enclosure
• New three-phase main switch
• Individual RCBO safety switches (electrocution protection devices) for the property’s sub-circuits
• 3 × new 100A 500VAC service fuse bases and holders
• New insulated Bramite switchboard backing
• Re-termination of the existing electrical circuits
• Looming and tidying of the internal switchboard wiring
• Testing and commissioning of the new switchboard
• Level 2 disconnect and reconnect of the mains power supply
• Sealing of the new service fuses
• Completion of the required electrical and network documentation for Ausgrid

New Three-Phase Switchboard

As part of the works, we removed the existing switchboard equipment and installed a new three-phase switchboard with modern individual RCBO protection.

RCBOs combine circuit breaker and safety switch protection into one device, providing protection against overloads, short circuits and electric shock.

Having individual RCBOs across the sub-circuits also means that if an electrical fault develops on one protected circuit, that circuit can trip independently rather than unnecessarily shutting down multiple areas of the home.

Circuits such as the stove, hot water and air conditioning can also be individually protected with RCBOs rather than relying on older circuit breakers without RCD protection.

New Service Fuse Equipment & Level 2 Electrical Work

The job also required work on the incoming electrical supply, which was completed by our Level 2 electrician in St Ives.

We installed three new 100A service fuse bases and holders for the three-phase electrical supply.

Our Level 2 electrician safely disconnected the mains power supply to allow the switchboard and service equipment to be replaced.

Once the new switchboard was installed and all electrical testing had been completed, the mains power was safely reconnected, the service fuses were sealed and the electrical supply was returned to service.

Our electrician also completed the required Level 2 electrical and network paperwork for submission to Ausgrid, the electrical distributor servicing the property.

Having our own Level 2 electricians allowed us to manage the switchboard upgrade, service fuse work and mains disconnect/reconnect as part of the same project.

Bramite Backing & Fire Protection

We also installed insulated Bramite backing within the switchboard enclosure as part of the upgrade.

The Bramite backing was installed in accordance with the applicable fire-protective requirements of AS/NZS 3000 Clause 2.10.7, helping minimise the potential spread of fire should a fault originate within the switchboard.

The associated switchboard wiring was also properly terminated, organised and passed through appropriately fitted openings to leave a neat and serviceable installation.

Testing & Electrical Compliance

Once all equipment was installed, our electricians tested the new three-phase switchboard, RCBO safety switches, service fuse equipment and associated circuits before restoring power.

The Level 2 mains connection was then completed, service fuses sealed and the necessary paperwork prepared for Ausgrid.

All electrical work was completed with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, NSW electrical requirements and Ausgrid network requirements.

The Result

What started as a complete power outage at a St Ives home, with nothing visibly tripped at the switchboard, resulted in a comprehensive upgrade of the property’s electrical supply and protection equipment.

We installed a new three-phase switchboard with individual RCBO safety switches, insulated Bramite backing and three new 100A service fuse bases and holders.

Our Level 2 electrician completed the mains disconnect and reconnect, sealed the service fuses and completed the required paperwork for Ausgrid.

The customer was left with power restored and a safer, cleaner and more modern three-phase electrical installation with improved individual circuit protection.

The Problem

We recently attended a property in Bexley where the existing electrical installation still contained old cotton-insulated electrical wiring.

Cotton cabling is commonly found in older Sydney homes and, due to its age, the insulation can become brittle, deteriorated and unsafe. Once the insulation begins breaking down, there is an increased risk of exposed conductors, electrical faults and other safety issues.

After inspecting the installation, we recommended replacing the old cotton wiring with modern PVC-insulated copper electrical cabling. The job also involved removing the old asbestos switchboard panel, installing a new steel meter enclosure, upgrading the property’s earthing and installing a new bathroom heat, light and fan unit.

Removing the Old Cotton Electrical Wiring

A major part of this project was the removal and replacement of the old cotton-insulated wiring.

Our electricians disconnected the affected circuits and removed the redundant cotton cabling wherever it was safely accessible, including the existing cotton wiring terminating within the switchboard.

When working on older homes, rewiring isn’t always as straightforward as pulling out the old cable and installing a new one. Existing wiring can run through old metal conduit, inaccessible ceiling areas and parts of the building that have been altered over the years.

Where the existing metal conduit within the ceiling space was accessible, it was removed carefully to avoid unnecessary damage to the surrounding building structure and other services.

Where sections could not practically be removed due to access or structural restrictions, they were electrically isolated, securely capped and left in a safe condition.

Rewiring With Modern PVC Cabling

The old cotton wiring was replaced with modern PVC-insulated copper electrical cabling, appropriately sized for the circuits being supplied.

New cabling was run neatly through the property, properly supported and protected to provide a much safer and more reliable electrical installation.

Replacing deteriorated cotton wiring is particularly important in older homes because the condition of the insulation can continue to worsen over time. What may initially appear to be intact wiring can become brittle when disturbed during renovations, maintenance or electrical work.

By completing the rewire, we were able to remove the ageing cabling from the nominated circuits and replace it with modern wiring designed for today’s electrical requirements.

Asbestos Switchboard Panel Removal

The existing switchboard also contained an old asbestos backing panel, which required removal as part of the electrical upgrade.

The existing cotton wiring within the switchboard was disconnected and removed before the asbestos panel was taken out using appropriate procedures.

Removing the old asbestos panel allowed the ageing switchboard setup to be replaced with a cleaner and more modern electrical installation.

New Steel Meter Enclosure

As part of the project, we supplied and installed a new steel meter enclosure.

The old equipment was disconnected and removed where required, and the installation area was prepared for the new enclosure.

The steel meter box provides a strong and durable enclosure for the property’s metering and electrical equipment while giving the installation a much cleaner and more serviceable finish.

New Earth Stake

The property’s electrical earthing system was also upgraded with the installation of a new earth stake.

The earth stake was positioned a safe distance from the house and connected using the required earthing conductor.

A properly installed earthing system is an essential part of the home’s electrical safety system. If an electrical fault occurs, the earthing arrangement works together with the protective devices to help disconnect the affected electrical supply.

When we’re rewiring an older property, we look beyond simply replacing the cables and also consider whether important parts of the installation, such as the switchboard and earthing system, require upgrading.

Bathroom Heat, Light & Fan Installation

While completing the electrical upgrades, we also installed a new bathroom heat, light and fan unit.

The installation included the required cabling and switching, providing the bathroom with combined heating, lighting and ventilation.

The exhaust fan helps remove warm, moisture-filled air from the bathroom, while the heat lamps provide additional comfort during colder weather.

Electrical Testing & Compliance

Once the new electrical wiring was installed, our electricians tested the affected circuits before they were returned to service.

Testing included checks for:

• Continuity
• Insulation resistance
• Polarity
• Correct circuit operation

These tests help confirm that the new cabling has been correctly installed and that the circuits are operating safely.

All electrical work was completed by licensed electricians with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and Australian electrical safety requirements.

The Result

This Bexley electrical rewire involved much more than simply replacing a few old cables.

We removed deteriorated cotton-insulated electrical wiring and replaced it with modern PVC-insulated copper cabling, removed the existing asbestos switchboard panel, installed a new steel meter enclosure and earth stake, and completed the installation of a new bathroom heat, light and fan unit.

The result is a significantly improved electrical installation with modern wiring, upgraded electrical infrastructure and improved safety, while removing ageing materials commonly found in older Sydney homes.

The Problem

A customer in Cheltenham contacted Bright Force Electrical after losing power to the property. Our electricians attended to investigate the power outage and identified a burnt fuse, along with an ageing electrical switchboard that required upgrading.

The existing installation required replacement and improvements to the metering cabling and circuit protection to provide a safer and more reliable electrical supply.

Work Completed

Our electricians completed a three-phase switchboard upgrade in Cheltenham, including:

• Disconnection and removal of the old switchboard equipment
• Installation of a new three-phase switchboard enclosure
• Installation of a new three-phase main switch
• Installation of individual RCBO safety switches (electrocution protection devices) across the sub-circuits
• RCBO protection for circuits including the stove, hot water and air conditioning where applicable
• Installation of two new 100A 500VAC service fuse bases and holders
• Rewiring of the metering panel with new 16mm² cabling
• Stripping, terminating, looming and organising the associated switchboard cabling
• Testing and commissioning of the new switchboard and protective devices

Safety & Compliance

The upgraded switchboard provides individual RCBO protection for the sub-circuits, combining overcurrent and electrocution protection while reducing the risk of a single fault causing multiple circuits to lose power.

The metering panel was also rewired using 16mm² cable, with the switchboard cabling arranged to provide a neat, serviceable installation and minimise the potential spread of fire originating at the switchboard.

The electrical work was completed in accordance with applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and electrical safety requirements.

The Result

The burnt fuse and outdated electrical equipment were addressed with a new three-phase switchboard, individual RCBO safety switches, upgraded 16mm² metering cabling and new 100A service fuse equipment, providing the Cheltenham property with a safer, modern and more reliable electrical installation.

The Problem

We recently attended a home in Marrickville after the customer noticed their lights had started flickering.

Flickering lights are something we always recommend getting checked, as they can be a sign of an issue with the electrical supply, switchboard, connections or wiring within the property.

After inspecting the electrical installation, we found the existing switchboard was still fitted with old ceramic fuses, with some of the equipment showing visible signs of burning and damage. Given the age and condition of the existing fuse equipment, we recommended upgrading the switchboard internals to modern RCBO safety switch protection to improve the safety and reliability of the electrical installation.

The existing switchboard enclosure itself was still suitable to use, so rather than replacing the entire board, we were able to retain the enclosure and completely upgrade the protection equipment inside.

What We Did

Our electrician removed the old ceramic fuses and damaged switchboard equipment before upgrading the existing single-phase switchboard.

The new switchboard protection included:

• 1 × 16A RCBO
• 2 × 20A RCBOs
• 1 × 32A RCBO
• 1 × 32A circuit breaker
• 1 × 63A circuit breaker
• 1 × whole-home surge protector
• 1 × new active link

The existing circuits were transferred across to the appropriate new protection devices, with the cabling stripped, re-terminated and securely connected.

We also reorganised and tidied the internal switchboard wiring so the finished installation was neat, accessible and easier to service in the future.

Level 2 Disconnect & Reconnect of Mains Power

As part of the Marrickville switchboard upgrade, our Level 2 electrician carried out a disconnect and reconnect of the mains power supply so the electrical work could be completed safely.

Once the new switchboard equipment had been installed and tested, our Level 2 electrician reconnected the mains power, sealed the service fuses and completed the necessary electrical and network paperwork for submission to Ausgrid, the electrical distributor for the property.

Having our own Level 2 electricians allowed us to manage both the switchboard upgrade and the required work on the incoming mains supply as part of the same job.

Upgrading from Ceramic Fuses to RCBO Protection

Replacing the old ceramic fuses was an important part of this job, particularly because some of the existing equipment was already showing signs of burning and heat damage.

The new RCBOs (Residual Current Circuit Breakers with Overcurrent Protection) provide combined overload, short-circuit and electrocution protection for the nominated circuits.

Individual RCBO protection also means that if a fault develops on one protected circuit, that circuit can trip independently rather than unnecessarily taking out multiple circuits throughout the home.

This gives the customer a much more modern and practical level of electrical protection compared with the old ceramic fuse setup.

Whole-Home Surge Protection

While upgrading the switchboard, we also installed a whole-home surge protection device.

Surge protection at the main switchboard helps protect the home’s electrical system and connected appliances against sudden voltage spikes and electrical surges.

We often explain surge protection as being similar to airbags in your car – you don’t notice it during normal everyday use, but it’s there to provide an additional layer of protection when it matters most.

This can help protect equipment throughout the home, including TVs, computers, refrigerators, appliances, lighting and other sensitive electronics.

Testing, Compliance & Ausgrid Documentation

Once the new switchboard equipment was installed, our electricians tested the RCBO safety switches, circuit breakers and associated electrical circuits before the property was re-energised.

Our Level 2 electrician then completed the mains reconnection, sealed the service fuses and prepared the required paperwork for submission to Ausgrid.

Modern RCBO protection is also more sensitive than older ceramic fuse protection, meaning an upgrade can sometimes uncover existing wiring faults or electrical leakage elsewhere within an older installation. Where this occurs, additional electrical fault finding may be required to identify and repair the underlying problem.

The Result

What started with the customer noticing flickering lights in their Marrickville home led to the discovery of an ageing switchboard containing burnt and damaged ceramic fuse equipment.

We removed the old ceramic fuses and upgraded the switchboard with individual RCBO safety switches, new circuit breakers, an active link and whole-home surge protection.

Our Level 2 electrician also completed the mains disconnect and reconnect, sealed the service fuses and completed the required Ausgrid paperwork.

The customer was left with a safer, cleaner and more modern single-phase switchboard, with improved circuit protection and additional surge protection for the home’s electrical system and appliances.

The Problem

A customer in Earlwood contacted Bright Force Electrical after losing power to their property. Ausgrid had attended the property and advised the customer that they needed a licensed electrician to inspect the existing switchboard.

Our electricians attended to assess the electrical installation and identified that the existing single-phase switchboard protection equipment and consumer mains required upgrading before the property could be left with a safe and reliable electrical supply.

Work Completed

Our electricians completed a single-phase switchboard upgrade in Earlwood, along with replacement of the property’s consumer mains. The work included:

• Isolation and inspection of the existing electrical supply
• Removal of obsolete switchboard protection equipment
• Upgrade of the single-phase switchboard internals within the existing enclosure
• Installation of new individual safety switches (electrocution protection devices) for the existing circuits
• Transfer and termination of the existing circuits onto the new protection devices
• Looming, dressing and organising the internal switchboard cabling
• Supply and installation of new 16mm² XLPE single-phase consumer mains cable
• Installation of insulated Bramite switchboard backing
• Testing of the switchboard, safety switches and associated electrical circuits
• Testing of the new consumer mains, including insulation resistance, polarity and continuity
• Re-energising and commissioning of the electrical installation

New 16mm² Consumer Mains

As part of the electrical upgrade, the existing incoming supply cable was replaced with new 16mm² XLPE single-phase consumer mains.

The new consumer mains were securely installed and correctly terminated between the supply connection and the main switchboard, providing a durable and reliable incoming electrical supply for the property.

Switchboard Safety Upgrade

The existing switchboard enclosure was retained while the internal electrical protection equipment was upgraded.

New individual safety switches were installed to provide improved protection for the property’s electrical circuits. Individual circuit protection also helps isolate an electrical fault to the affected circuit rather than unnecessarily interrupting power to multiple circuits.

An insulated Bramite backing panel was also installed within the switchboard as part of the upgrade to improve the fire-protective characteristics of the installation.

Safety & Compliance

The switchboard and consumer mains upgrade was completed with consideration to the applicable requirements of AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, including requirements relating to switchboard wiring and fire-protective measures.

The new 16mm² XLPE consumer mains, safety switch protection and switchboard equipment were tested before the electrical installation was re-energised and commissioned.

The Result

The Earlwood property received an upgraded single-phase switchboard with individual safety switch protection, insulated Bramite backing and new 16mm² XLPE consumer mains, addressing the electrical supply concerns following Ausgrid’s attendance and providing a safer, modern and more reliable electrical installation.

The Problem

A customer in Kensington contacted Bright Force Electrical after losing power to the powerpoints in their property.

Our electricians attended to assess the electrical supply and existing switchboard. Following the inspection, the property required an upgrade of the existing three-phase switchboard and circuit protection equipment to provide a safer and more reliable electrical installation.

Work Completed

Our electricians completed a three-phase switchboard upgrade in Kensington, including:

• Isolation of the existing electrical supply
• Removal of the old switchboard enclosure and obsolete protection equipment
• Installation of a new plastic switchboard enclosure
• Installation of a new three-phase main switch
• Installation of individual safety switches (electrocution protection devices) for the existing circuits
• Transfer and termination of the existing electrical circuits onto the new protection equipment
• Looming, dressing and organisation of internal switchboard cabling
• Installation of insulated Bramite switchboard backing
• Installation of a surge arrestor/diverter
• Testing of the new switchboard, circuits and protective devices
• Re-energising and commissioning of the electrical installation

Three-Phase Switchboard Upgrade

The existing switchboard equipment was replaced with modern circuit protection, including individual safety switches for the property’s electrical circuits.

Individual circuit protection improves electrical safety while helping ensure that a fault affecting one circuit does not unnecessarily disconnect multiple circuits throughout the property.

An insulated Bramite backing panel was also installed within the switchboard enclosure as part of the upgrade and fire-protective measures.

Whole-Home Surge Protection

A new surge arrestor was installed at the main switchboard to provide additional protection against damaging electrical surges and voltage spikes.

Switchboard surge protection helps protect equipment throughout the property, including TVs, computers, refrigerators, electrical appliances, lighting and electrical cabling.

The surge protection device remains in the background during normal operation but provides an additional layer of protection to the property’s electrical system when a damaging surge occurs.

Safety & Compliance

The three-phase switchboard upgrade was completed with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, including requirements relating to switchboard protection and fire-protective measures.

Following installation, the switchboard circuits, individual safety switches and surge protection equipment were tested before the electrical installation was re-energised and commissioned.

The Result

The Kensington property received a new three-phase switchboard enclosure with individual safety switch protection, insulated Bramite backing and whole-home surge protection, providing a safer, modern and more reliable electrical installation following the customer’s loss of power to their powerpoints.

The Job

We recently attended a home in Hurstville where the customer was preparing to have a home battery system installed, but their existing meter board needed to be upgraded before the new battery installation could go ahead.

With solar and battery systems becoming more common, the existing electrical infrastructure sometimes needs to be upgraded first to ensure the meter board, consumer mains and earthing system are suitable for the new equipment and meet the applicable electrical requirements.

After assessing the existing installation, we completed the required meter board and electrical supply upgrades to prepare the Hurstville property for its new battery system.

What We Did

The electrical upgrade included:

• Removal of the existing meter board equipment where required
• Supply and installation of a new steel meter enclosure
• Preparation of the new enclosure for the required electrical and metering equipment
• Supply and installation of approximately 8 metres of 16mm² XLPE single-phase consumer mains cable
• Termination and testing of the new consumer mains
• Installation of a new earth stake
• Installation of the associated main earthing cabling
• Testing of the upgraded electrical installation
• Preparation of the meter board for the customer’s upcoming home battery installation

New Steel Meter Enclosure

A new steel meter enclosure was installed to replace the existing meter board setup.

The installation area was prepared and the new enclosure securely mounted, providing a strong, durable and serviceable location for the property’s electrical and metering equipment.

Upgrading the meter enclosure was an important part of preparing the property for the battery installation, ensuring the electrical equipment could be arranged in a cleaner and more suitable configuration.

New 16mm² XLPE Consumer Mains

As part of the upgrade, we installed approximately 8 metres of new 16mm² XLPE single-phase consumer mains cable.

Consumer mains carry electricity between the incoming supply and the property’s main switchboard, making them an important part of the electrical infrastructure.

The new XLPE mains cable was installed, correctly terminated and tested to provide a durable and reliable electrical supply suitable for the upgraded installation.

Upgrading the Earthing System

We also installed a new earth stake and associated earthing cable as part of the electrical upgrade.

The earthing system is a critical part of the home’s electrical safety system. In the event of certain electrical faults, it works together with the property’s protective devices to help the electrical supply disconnect safely.

When preparing an older electrical installation for equipment such as a home battery or solar battery system, it’s important to look at the complete electrical installation rather than simply making space for the new equipment.

Preparing the Home for Battery Installation

The customer originally contacted us because their existing meter board needed upgrading before their home battery installation could proceed.

Rather than treating the battery as a standalone piece of equipment, we upgraded the supporting electrical infrastructure so the property would be properly prepared for the next stage of the installation.

The new steel meter enclosure, 16mm² XLPE consumer mains and earthing system provide a much stronger foundation for the customer’s planned battery upgrade.

Electrical Safety & Compliance

The meter board, consumer mains and earthing upgrades were completed with consideration to the applicable requirements of AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and relevant electrical safety requirements.

Once the new mains cabling and earthing equipment had been installed, our electricians completed the required terminations and electrical testing to confirm the upgraded installation was operating correctly.

The Result

The Hurstville property is now prepared for the customer’s planned home battery installation, with the older electrical infrastructure upgraded to provide a safer and more suitable setup.

We installed a new steel meter enclosure, approximately 8 metres of 16mm² XLPE single-phase consumer mains and a new earth stake with associated earthing cabling.

The customer was left with an upgraded meter board and electrical supply infrastructure, ready for the next stage of their home battery installation.

at their Surry Hills property kept tripping at the switchboard, despite the main switch and safety switches having previously been upgraded.

Our electrician returned to investigate the issue and carried out electrical fault finding on the upstairs lighting circuit, checking the switchboard protection and associated wiring and equipment to identify the source of the repeated tripping.

Rather than simply resetting or replacing the safety switch, the focus was on identifying the underlying electrical fault and ensuring the affected lighting circuit could operate safely.

The Project

We recently completed a major commercial and Level 2 electrical upgrade at Pizza Hut in Kogarah, involving the incoming mains supply, metering, point of attachment, switchboards, safety switches and earthing system.

The property contained both the Pizza Hut commercial tenancy and an upstairs residential unit, which made this more involved than a standard switchboard upgrade. The existing electrical infrastructure required significant work to bring the installation up to current requirements and provide safe, accessible electrical protection for both the shop and residential areas.

Our electricians and Level 2 Accredited Service Provider (ASP) electricians completed the upgrade, including coordination and required documentation for Ausgrid.

New 25mm² Consumer Mains

A major part of the project was upgrading the property’s incoming electrical supply.

We supplied and installed new 25mm² consumer mains from the point of attachment through to the main switchboard.

The old consumer mains were disconnected and replaced with new 25mm² XLPE cabling, including:

• New 25mm² consumer mains from the point of attachment to the main switchboard
• New 25mm² XLPE cable to the meter
• New 25mm² XLPE cable from the meter to the main switch
• Disconnection of the existing consumer mains
• Connection and termination of the new electrical supply cabling

The existing associated cabling was also rewired where required to bring the installation in line with applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules.

New Commercial & Residential Switchboards

Because the building supplies both a commercial Pizza Hut tenancy and an upstairs residence, the electrical distribution needed to be properly separated, accessible and protected.

We supplied and installed new commercial and residential switchboard equipment, including a new 600mm x 600mm galvanised main switchboard at the front of the property.

The switchboard work included:

• New commercial electrical board for the Pizza Hut tenancy
• New residential electrical board for the upstairs unit
• New 600mm x 600mm galvanised main switchboard
• 2 new main switches
• New individual RCBO safety switches (electrocution protection devices)
• New neutral links
• New active links
• Current-limiting main switch equipment
• New SPD/MPD equipment
• Rewiring and re-termination of the associated switchboard cabling
• Clear labelling of electrical circuits and outlets

The completed setup provides much clearer separation between the commercial and residential electrical installations while making future servicing and fault isolation easier.

Relocating the Residential Switchboard

One of the major issues we identified was the location of the residential switchboard for the upstairs unit.

The switchboard was located externally on the wall of the neighbouring property, meaning the occupants could not easily access their own electrical protection equipment in an emergency.

This location was not suitable, so we relocated the residential switchboard inside the residential property, providing the upstairs occupants with proper access to their main switch and safety switches.

This was an important part of the project because electrical protection equipment needs to be accessible when power needs to be isolated quickly or a safety switch needs to be reset.

Point of Attachment & Aerial Mains Relocation

The project also involved significant Level 2 electrical work on the overhead supply.

The existing point of attachment (POA) was relocated to a more suitable position, and the aerial electrical mains were moved across to the new point of attachment.

Our Level 2 electrical work included:

• Relocation of the existing point of attachment
• Relocation of the aerial mains to the new POA
• Connection of the new 25mm² consumer mains
• Installation of 3 new 80A service fuses
• Required work on the incoming Ausgrid electrical supply
• Testing and verification before energisation

This provided a properly configured connection between the network supply and the newly upgraded electrical infrastructure.

Metering Upgrade & Relocation

Both the Pizza Hut shop and upstairs flat metering were relocated to the new external main switchboard.

As part of the metering work, the existing older disc-style electricity meters were upgraded to digital metering.

Relocating the meters to the outside main switchboard provides a more practical and accessible location for metering equipment while forming part of the overall electrical supply upgrade.

New Safety Switch Protection

All required circuits were upgraded with new safety switch protection.

Modern RCBOs provide combined overcurrent, short-circuit and electrocution protection, offering a significant safety improvement compared with older electrical protection equipment.

With a mixed-use building containing both a busy commercial kitchen and residential accommodation, having properly separated and protected electrical circuits is particularly important.

New Earthing System

The property’s electrical earthing system was also upgraded.

We supplied and installed a new earth stake and new main earthing cabling, providing the upgraded electrical installation with an appropriate earthing arrangement.

Earthing forms a critical part of the electrical safety system and works together with the circuit protection equipment to help protective devices operate correctly in the event of an electrical fault.

Electrical Testing & Circuit Labelling

Once the new electrical infrastructure had been installed, we carried out comprehensive testing before the installation was commissioned.

This included insulation resistance testing of the electrical circuits, along with the required electrical checks of the upgraded supply and protection equipment.

All relevant circuits and outlets were also clearly labelled, making the commercial and residential switchboards easier to identify, isolate and maintain in the future.

Level 2 Electrical Work & Ausgrid Documentation

Because this project involved the point of attachment, aerial mains, service fuses, consumer mains and metering, a significant portion of the work required a qualified Level 2 electrician.

Our Level 2 electricians were able to manage the required network-side electrical work alongside the switchboard and internal electrical upgrades.

Once the installation was completed, we prepared and submitted the required Ausgrid paperwork associated with the works.

A Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW) was also completed for the applicable electrical work and provided as required to the customer and Ausgrid.

The project was carried out subject to the relevant Ausgrid approval and network requirements.

The Result

This was a substantial electrical infrastructure upgrade that went well beyond a standard commercial switchboard replacement.

The Pizza Hut Kogarah property received new 25mm² XLPE consumer mains, three 80A service fuses, a new 600x600mm galvanised main switchboard, separate commercial and residential switchboards, new RCBO safety switches, upgraded digital metering, a relocated point of attachment and aerial mains, and a new earthing system.

We also relocated the upstairs residential switchboard from an unsuitable location on the neighbouring property to an accessible position within the residence.

The result is a much safer, more accessible and more serviceable electrical installation for both the Pizza Hut commercial tenancy and upstairs residential unit, supported by the required testing, compliance certification and Ausgrid documentation.

The Problem

A customer in Forest Lodge contacted Bright Force Electrical after experiencing a partial power outage at their older terrace home.

Part of the property had unexpectedly lost power, however nothing had tripped at the switchboard, indicating that the problem was not simply a tripped circuit breaker or safety switch.

Our electricians attended the Forest Lodge terrace to assess the electrical supply and existing switchboard. Following the inspection, the ageing electrical infrastructure required upgrading, including the single-phase switchboard and consumer mains.

Work Completed

Our electricians completed a single-phase switchboard and consumer mains upgrade in Forest Lodge, including:

• Isolation of the existing electrical supply
• Removal of the old switchboard and obsolete protection equipment
• Installation of a new single-phase switchboard
• Installation of a new main switch
• Installation of individual RCBO safety switches (electrocution protection devices) for the existing sub-circuits
• Transfer and termination of the existing electrical circuits onto the new protection equipment
• Looming and organisation of the internal switchboard cabling
• Supply and installation of new 16mm² XLPE single-phase consumer mains
• Secure termination of the new consumer mains at the incoming supply and main switchboard
• Electrical testing of the consumer mains and associated circuits
• Testing and commissioning of the new switchboard before restoring supply

Single-Phase Switchboard Upgrade

The existing electrical switchboard was replaced with a modern single-phase switchboard incorporating individual RCBO safety switches.

RCBOs provide combined overcurrent and electrocution protection for individual electrical circuits. This also allows a fault on one circuit to be isolated without unnecessarily disconnecting multiple circuits throughout the home.

This is particularly important in older terrace homes, where electrical installations may have undergone numerous additions and alterations over many years.

New 16mm² Consumer Mains

The property’s incoming electrical supply cabling was also upgraded with new 16mm² XLPE single-phase consumer mains.

The new consumer mains were installed between the incoming supply connection and the main switchboard using appropriate mechanical protection and secure electrical terminations.

Following installation, the mains were tested for insulation resistance, polarity and continuity to verify the integrity and safe operation of the new electrical supply.

Electrical Safety & Compliance

The new switchboard, individual RCBO protection and consumer mains were installed with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, electrical safety requirements and local network requirements.

The new protection equipment and associated circuits were tested before the installation was re-energised and commissioned.

The Result

The Forest Lodge terrace home received a new single-phase switchboard with individual RCBO safety switches and new 16mm² XLPE consumer mains, upgrading the ageing electrical infrastructure following the unexplained partial power outage.

The completed work provides the older Inner West property with a safer, more reliable and modern electrical supply and circuit protection system.

The Problem

A customer in Hornsby contacted Bright Force Electrical after experiencing ongoing power tripping at their property.

Our electricians attended to assess the electrical installation and existing switchboard. Following the inspection, the existing switchboard equipment required upgrading to provide modern circuit protection and improve the safety and reliability of the home’s electrical system.

Work Completed

Our electricians completed a three-phase switchboard upgrade in Hornsby, including:

• Isolation of the existing electrical supply
• Removal and safe disposal of the old switchboard equipment
• Installation of a new three-phase switchboard
• Installation of a new plastic switchboard enclosure
• Installation of a new three-phase main switch
• Installation of individual RCBO safety switches (electrocution protection devices) for the existing sub-circuits
• Transfer and termination of the existing circuits onto the new protection equipment
• Looming, dressing and tidying of internal switchboard cabling
• Labelling of the new electrical protection equipment
• Testing and commissioning of the new switchboard and safety devices

Three-Phase Switchboard & RCBO Protection

The outdated switchboard equipment was replaced with modern individual RCBO safety switch protection.

RCBOs provide combined protection against overcurrent and electric shock, with each sub-circuit individually protected. This means a fault affecting one electrical circuit can be isolated without unnecessarily causing multiple circuits throughout the property to lose power.

Circuits such as the stove, hot water and air conditioning can also receive RCBO protection rather than relying on older circuit breakers without RCD protection.

Safety & Compliance

The three-phase switchboard upgrade was completed with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and electrical safety requirements, including requirements for RCD protection when switchboards and final sub-circuits are upgraded or altered.

Following installation, the switchboard and associated protective devices were tested to confirm correct operation before the electrical installation was re-energised and commissioned.

The Result

The Hornsby property received a new three-phase switchboard with a new main switch and individual RCBO safety switches, replacing the outdated protection equipment following the customer’s power-tripping issues.

The completed Hornsby switchboard upgrade provides the property with modern circuit protection and a safer, more serviceable electrical installation.

The Problem

A customer in Annandale contacted Bright Force Electrical after arcing occurred at the point of attachment, creating a serious electrical safety issue. Ausgrid disconnected power to the property until the electrical fault and damaged supply infrastructure could be rectified.

Work Completed

Our Level 2 electricians attended the Annandale property and completed the required electrical upgrades, including:

• Supply and installation of new three-phase 16mm XLPE consumer mains cable
• Replacement of the incoming mains supply between the connection point and main switchboard
• Installation of appropriate mechanical protection and secure cable supports
• Installation of a new three-phase switchboard
• Removal of the old switchboard equipment
• Installation of a new main switch
• Installation of individual RCBO safety switch protection to all sub-circuits
• Testing of insulation resistance, polarity and continuity
• Testing and commissioning of the new consumer mains and switchboard

The new switchboard provides individual RCBO protection to each circuit, improving electrical safety while reducing the risk of multiple circuits losing power from a single electrical fault.

The Result

The Ausgrid electrical defect and arcing point of attachment were rectified, with new 16mm XLPE consumer mains and a modern RCBO-protected switchboard installed in accordance with applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules.

The installation was tested and commissioned, power was restored to the property, and a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW) was completed.

The Problem

Bright Force Electrical attended a property on Tunbridge Street, Busby NSW 2168, after the property’s private power pole had fallen down, affecting the overhead electrical supply to the home.

With the pole no longer able to safely support the incoming electrical service, the property required a new private pole along with replacement consumer mains and overhead service mains to restore a safe and reliable electrical connection.

Work Completed

Our electricians completed the private power pole and electrical mains replacement in Busby, including:

• Removal and replacement of the fallen private power pole
• Supply and installation of a new 6.5-metre private power pole
• Excavation and preparation of the new pole footing
• Positioning, securing and stabilising the new pole
• Installation of new single-phase 16mm² XLPE consumer mains cable
• Installation of new single-phase 25mm² aluminium overhead service mains from the street pole to the property’s point of attachment
• Installation of appropriate aerial fittings, supports and connections
• Termination of the new consumer mains at the supply connection and main switchboard
• Electrical testing including insulation resistance, polarity and continuity checks
• Final inspection and commissioning of the new electrical supply infrastructure

Private Power Pole Installation

A new 6.5-metre private power pole was installed to provide the correct support, height and clearance for the property’s incoming overhead electrical supply.

The pole was securely positioned and anchored to provide a stable, long-term solution capable of supporting the new overhead electrical service.

New Consumer & Overhead Mains

The property’s electrical supply infrastructure was also upgraded with new 16mm² XLPE single-phase consumer mains, providing a durable connection between the incoming supply and the main switchboard.

New 25mm² aluminium single-phase overhead service mains were installed from the street supply pole to the property’s point of attachment, with the conductors correctly supported and terminated for a secure overhead connection.

Safety & Compliance

The new private pole, consumer mains and overhead service mains were installed with consideration to applicable AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, electrical safety requirements and network authority requirements.

Correct clearances, mechanical support and electrical connections were checked before the installation was tested and returned to service.

The Result

The fallen private power pole was replaced with a new 6.5-metre private pole, along with new 16mm² XLPE consumer mains and 25mm² aluminium overhead service mains, restoring a secure and reliable electrical supply to the Busby property.