Consumer Main Upgrades & Repairs

Identifying damage to consumer mains is extremely important as it is the key component in your electrical system that connects your property to the electricity network and is crucial for safety and functionality.

Here are some signs that your consumer mains might be damaged:

1. Frequent Power Outages: If you experience unexplained or frequent power outages, it might be due to damaged consumer mains.
2. Flickering or Dimming Lights: Lights that flicker or dim unexpectedly can indicate an issue with your consumer mains, especially if this happens across multiple circuits & consistently.
3. Electrical Surges: Surges can be caused by issues in the consumer mains, particularly if they are frequent and not related to external factors like storms.
4. Burning Smells or Smoke: A burning smell or visible smoke near your electrical panel or at the point where the electricity enters your building is a clear sign of danger.
5. Visible Damage: Any visible damage such as frayed wires, burn marks, or corrosion around the main switchboard or incoming cables is a serious concern.
6. Tripped Circuit Breakers or Blown Fuses: While these can be caused by problems with internal wiring or devices, they can also indicate an issue with the consumer mains.
7. Old or Outdated Systems: Older electrical systems may not be up to current standards and could be more susceptible to damage. So if you are living in an older home this could be the case.
8. Electricity Bill Spikes: An unexplained increase in your electricity bill might indicate an issue with your electrical system
9. Noises from the Switchboard: Buzzing, humming, or crackling sounds from the switchboard could suggest a problem with the consumer mains.

If you suspect that your consumer mains are damaged, it’s important to contact a qualified electrician immediately. Handling electrical systems can be dangerous, and a professional will be able to safely assess and repair any damage. Remember, regular maintenance and inspections by a qualified electrician can help prevent such issues

Installing consumer mains is a complex and critical process that should only be carried out by licensed and qualified electricians. Our Electritians at RENELEC Electrical Services have the experience & qualifications to complete such a complex process.

The installation involves several steps and adherence to local electrical codes, safety standards & council regulations.. Here’s a general overview of how consumer mains are typically installed in Adelaide:

1. Planning and Permits: Before any work begins, a thorough plan is made. This includes determining the route of the cables, the type of cables needed, and the load capacity required. Necessary permits are obtained from local authorities (councils) or utility companies.
2. Choosing the Right Cable: The type and size of the cable used for consumer mains depend on the expected electrical load and the distance from the power source to the main switchboard. The cable must be appropriately rated for the current it will carry. So a cable for a home and commercial property is different. We have had clients who require more power usage at residential homes since moving to a work-from-home style of living.
3. Trenching and Conduit Installation: If the cables need to run underground, trenches are dug, and conduits are laid. Conduits protect the cables from physical damage and environmental factors. (these are just safer in general)
4. Running the Cables: The cables are then run through the conduits from the point of attachment (such as a pole, transformer, or underground service) to the building’s main switchboard. In overhead installations, cables are run along poles.
5. Connecting to the Switchboard: At the building, the consumer mains are connected to the main switchboard. This involves intricate wiring work to ensure that the connection is secure and meets all safety standards.
6. Earthing and Bonding: Proper earthing (grounding) is crucial for safety. This step involves connecting the system to the earth to prevent electric shock in case of a fault.
7. Safety Checks and Testing: Once installed, the entire system is thoroughly tested. This includes checking for correct polarity, testing circuit breakers, and ensuring there are no short circuits.
8. Inspection and Approval: After the installation, an inspection by a certified electrical inspector is often required. The inspector checks the installation against safety standards and regulations.
9. Meter Installation: The utility company may install a new meter to measure electricity consumption. This is usually done after the installation has been approved.
10. Power Activation: Finally, once everything is approved and in place, the power is turned on, and the consumer mains become operational.

The process can vary depending on local regulations, the type of property, and the specific requirements of the electrical system. Safety is a paramount concern during the entire process, and all work must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) or local regulations. Regular maintenance and inspections are also important after installation to ensure ongoing safety and efficiency.