Safety hub
Plain-English electrical safety from Patrick, plus an instant checker for when something doesn't look right.
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This is general guidance only. If you are unsure, treat it as urgent and call.
Safety tips
🧪Test your safety switches every 3 months
Press the TEST button on each RCD. It should trip straight away. If it doesn't, call an electrician.
🔌Don't daisy-chain power boards
Plugging power boards into power boards can overload a single outlet. If you need more points, have them installed.
🚨Smoke alarms on every level
NSW law requires working smoke alarms on every level of a home. Test them monthly and replace alarms about every 10 years.
💧Keep water away from electrics
Never touch switches or appliances with wet hands. After a flood or a leak into light fittings, keep the power off and call a licensed electrician.
🔥Warm or discoloured fittings are a warning
A power point or switch that's warm, buzzing or brown-stained can indicate a loose connection. Stop using it and get it checked.
🧵Check cords and chargers
Replace frayed leads and damaged chargers. Don't run cords under rugs, where heat can build up and damage goes unnoticed.
🛠️DIY wiring is illegal in NSW
Changing a globe is fine. Anything wired in, like power points, lights or switchboards, must be done by a licensed electrician.
🌩️Storms and surges
Unplug sensitive electronics in severe storms, and consider surge protection. If power goes out, check whether neighbours are affected too, and call your network for street outages.
🏡Before you buy or rent
Ask about the switchboard age, safety switches and smoke alarms. An electrical safety inspection is cheap insurance.
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