Are you protected from an electrical fault in your home? Your home needs electrical protection, safety switches can help.
What Are Safety Switches?
A safety switch is a device that is installed in your home’s switchboard. This device instantly switches off the electricity supply if an electrical fault is detected. The purpose of safety switches is to minimise the risk of electricity-related fires, electric shock, injury and death.
How Do They Work?
They protect the individual. These switches turn off the electricity within milliseconds when a current leak is detected. This can happen if a faulty power point, wiring or electrical appliance is being used. They are not to be confused with circuit breakers and fuses. These, on the other hand, protect the circuitry, cutting power when too much current is flowing through the system. This can happen from a power surge or lightning strike.
Circuit breakers and fuses don’t protect people directly, they protect the electrical system. Only safety switches save lives.
Safety switches only protect if they are working and if they are connected to the circuit that is faulty. It’s impossible to know which circuit will fault and when. That’s why it is important to have safety switches installed on all circuits recommended by your electrician. This includes lighting, power points air conditioning, and pool equipment.
If you’re not sure, check with a Sydney electrical contractor. They will be able to tell you which circuits in your home are protected by safety switches.
Do You Have Safety Switches & Have They Been Testing?
If you live in a house that was built in the 1970’s or earlier, you may not have safety switches installed. This poses a serious risk. If you have not had this inspected you should contact a licensed electrician immediately.
When a safety switch has disconnected the power (tripped), it may sometimes be due to nuisance tripping. Resetting the switch should restore the power supply. If you cannot reset a safety switch after it has tripped, you may have a faulty appliance connected to the circuit, or there may be a wiring fault. If this is the case, a licensed electrician must be contacted to identify the issue, make any repairs and restore power.
Safety switches should be tested every 3 months. Most will have a test button. However, if you are unsure, it is always best to contact professionals to carry out testing. Contact our friendly electricians to ensure the safety of your home! Call us 24/7 on 1300 859 383 or book online!
