Fuse Box Replacement Sydney — Upgrade Your Old Fuse Box to a Modern Switchboard
If your home still has an old fuse box with ceramic fuses, it's time for an upgrade. A fuse box replacement protects your family from electrical fires and shocks, brings your property up to current Australian safety standards, and ensures your electrical system can handle the demands of modern living.
Upgrading to a Switchboard
AP Electrical Group specialises in replacing outdated fuse boxes across Sydney. Our licensed electricians will assess your current setup, remove the old fuse box safely, and install a modern switchboard with circuit breakers and safety switches (RCDs) — giving you peace of mind and a safer home.
What Is a Fuse Box?
A fuse box is an older style of electrical switchboard that uses ceramic or rewirable fuses to protect your home's electrical circuits. You'll typically find one near your front door or in your meter box. If your home was built before the 1990s and hasn't had an electrical upgrade, there's a good chance you still have a fuse box rather than a modern switchboard.
Fuse boxes were the standard in Australian homes for decades. They worked by using a thin fuse wire that would melt and break the circuit if too much current flowed through it — essentially sacrificing itself to prevent damage to your wiring. While this was effective for its time, it's a far cry from the protection that modern switchboards offer.
How do you know if you have a fuse box? Open your meter box or electrical panel and look for:
- Ceramic fuse holders: Small white or brown porcelain pieces you can pull out or unscrew
- Rewireable fuse wire: Thin wire threaded through the fuse holder
- No RCD or "Test" button: Modern switchboards have a clearly labelled test button for safety switches
- A generally aged appearance: Cracked housings, discoloured plastic, or exposed wiring
If any of this sounds familiar, your home has an old fuse box that should be assessed by a licensed electrician.
Fuse Box vs Modern Switchboard — What's the Difference?
Many homeowners use the terms "fuse box" and "switchboard" interchangeably, but they're quite different in how they protect your home. Understanding the difference helps explain why replacing your old fuse box is so important.
Old Fuse Box
- Uses ceramic or rewireable fuses that must be manually replaced when they blow
- Provides no protection against electric shock (no RCDs/safety switches)
- Limited number of circuits — wasn't designed for today's electrical demands
- Fuse wire can be replaced with the wrong rating, creating a serious fire risk
- Often contains asbestos backing panels (in homes built before the late 1980s)
- Does not comply with current Australian electrical standards (AS/NZS 3000:2018)
Modern Switchboard
- Uses circuit breakers that automatically trip and can be simply reset
- Includes RCDs (Residual Current Devices) or RCBOs that cut power in milliseconds to prevent electric shock
- Designed with enough circuits and capacity for modern appliances, air conditioning, solar panels, and EV chargers
- Neat, labelled layout that makes it easy to identify and isolate individual circuits
- Built with non-hazardous materials and compliant with all current safety standards
- Can be expanded with additional circuits as your needs grow
The Bottom Line
The bottom line: A fuse box is outdated technology that simply cannot provide the level of protection a modern switchboard offers. Replacing your fuse box isn’t just an upgrade — it’s a safety necessity.
Did you know? In NSW, all rental properties are required to have RCD protection on power outlet circuits and lighting circuits. If your investment property still has an old fuse box without safety switches, you may not be meeting your legal obligations as a landlord.
Why Does Your Fuse Box Need Replacing?
If you’re wondering whether you really need to replace your fuse box, the short answer is: almost certainly yes. Here’s why.
Safety Risks
Old fuse boxes are one of the most common electrical hazards in Australian homes. Without safety switches (RCDs), there's nothing to protect you or your family from electric shock if a fault occurs. Fuse boxes also lack the overload protection of modern circuit breakers, which means overheated wiring can go undetected — a leading cause of house fires. Ceramic fuses can be replaced with fuse wire of the wrong rating, which allows too much current to flow through circuits. This is something we see regularly in older Sydney homes, and it's a serious fire hazard that most homeowners aren't even aware of.
Compliance with Australian Standards
All electrical installations in NSW must comply with AS/NZS 3000:2018 (the Wiring Rules). Old fuse boxes almost certainly don't meet these standards. If you're renovating, selling, or renting out your property, compliance isn't optional — it's a legal requirement. Businesses in NSW are also required by law to have RCD safety switches installed. An outdated fuse box puts you at risk of fines and insurance complications.
Your Home's Electrical Demands Have Changed
When your fuse box was installed, a typical home ran a few lights, a fridge, a TV, and maybe a washing machine. Today, the average Australian household runs dozens of electrical devices — from air conditioners and dishwashers to home offices, gaming setups, and smart home systems. Your old fuse box wasn't built for this. That's why you experience tripped fuses, flickering lights, and circuits that can't keep up. A fuse box replacement brings your electrical system in line with how you actually use your home today.
Insurance and Property Value
Many insurance policies require your electrical system to meet current standards. An old, non-compliant fuse box could mean your insurer denies a claim in the event of an electrical fire. On the flip side, a modern switchboard adds value to your property and gives potential buyers confidence that the home is safe and well-maintained.
Asbestos Concerns
Many fuse boxes installed in Australian homes before the late 1980s contain asbestos panels or backing boards. Disturbing these during any electrical work can release dangerous asbestos fibres. Our licensed electricians check for asbestos as part of every fuse box replacement and follow strict safety procedures for removal and disposal. For more information, see our asbestos panel replacement section.
Signs Your Fuse Box Needs Replacing
Not sure if your fuse box is due for replacement?
Here are the warning signs our electricians look for — and that you should watch out for at home.
If you’re regularly replacing fuse wire or dealing with blown fuses, your circuits are overloaded. This is your fuse box telling you it can’t cope with your household’s electrical demand. Modern circuit breakers handle overloads far more safely and conveniently — they simply trip and can be reset.
Ceramic fuse holders are a clear indicator that your electrical system is decades out of date. These fuses offer inferior protection compared to modern circuit breakers and don't meet current safety standards.
Even a mild tingle when plugging in an appliance is a sign of an electrical fault. Sparks from power points or switches should never be ignored. These issues often trace back to an inadequate or faulty fuse box.
Flickering or dimming lights when you turn on the kettle, air conditioner, or hair dryer suggest your fuse box has loose connections or circuits that are struggling under load. This isn't just annoying — it can indicate a wiring issue that poses a fire risk.
Look at your fuse box — is there a button labelled “Test” or “RCD”? If not, you have no safety switch protecting you from electric shock. Modern Australian standards require RCDs on all circuits, and they’re essential for your family’s safety.
You've received a defect notice
If an inspector or authority has issued a defect notice for your property's electrical system, you'll need to take action promptly to address the safety hazards and ensure compliance.
If the fuse box or its surroundings feel warm to the touch, or you notice a faint burning smell, this is a serious warning sign. Overheating fuse holders and wiring can lead to electrical fires. If you notice this, contact an electrician immediately.
If your fuse box has a tangle of wires, extra circuits added haphazardly, or exposed connections, it's a fire hazard. This is common in older homes where circuits have been added over the years without a proper upgrade.
Not sure?
We offer free fuse box inspections across Sydney. Our licensed electricians will assess your fuse box and let you know exactly what’s needed — with no obligation.
What's Involved in a Fuse Box Replacement?
Replacing a fuse box is a straightforward process when handled by experienced, licensed electricians. Here’s exactly what happens when you choose AP Electrical Group for your fuse box replacement.
A typical fuse box replacement takes between 3 to 5 hours. There will be a complete power outage during the work, but we work efficiently to get your power back on the same day. We follow proper lockout/tagout procedures and use protective equipment throughout.
For a detailed breakdown of the full switchboard upgrade process, visit our Switchboard Upgrades page.
Step 1 – Assessment and Quote
Our certified electrician visits your property to inspect your current fuse box. We check for issues like undersized cabling, asbestos panels, missing safety switches, and overall compliance. You'll receive a clear, upfront quote with no hidden costs — and no unnecessary work.
Step 2 – Safe Removal of Your Old Fuse Box
On the scheduled day, we safely isolate your power supply and carefully remove the old fuse box. If asbestos panels are present, we follow strict safety procedures for removal and disposal, including sealing the work area and using protective equipment.
Step 3 – Installation of Your New Switchboard
We install a modern switchboard complete with circuit breakers and RCDs (safety switches) for every circuit. All connections are made to Australian standards using quality, Australian-approved components. We also take care of any additional work required, such as mains cabling upgrades or meter panel adjustments.
Step 4 – Testing and Certification
Once installed, we rigorously test every circuit and safety device in your new switchboard. We check that power is balanced, connections are secure, and safety switches trip correctly. We then restore your power and provide you with a Certificate of Compliance — proof that your new switchboard meets all NSW safety regulations.
Step 5 – Cleanup and Handover
We leave your property as tidy as we found it. All old equipment and debris are removed. Before we go, we'll walk you through your new switchboard, show you how to test your safety switches, and answer any questions you have.
How Much Does a Fuse Box Replacement Cost in Sydney?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and it’s a fair one. Fuse box replacement costs in Sydney vary depending on a few factors:
- Number of circuits — more circuits means more circuit breakers and RCDs to install
- Condition of existing wiring — if your cabling is undersized or damaged, it may need upgrading
- Asbestos removal — if your old fuse box has asbestos panels, safe removal adds to the cost
- Mains upgrade — some older properties need their mains supply upgraded to support a modern switchboard
- Type of switchboard — a standard single-phase board for a typical home differs from a 3-phase setup for larger properties
As a general guide, a standard fuse box replacement in Sydney typically ranges from $800 to $2,000+ AUD.
We know pricing is a major concern — customers tell us all the time that they don’t want to get ripped off, and we get it. That’s why we provide a firm, transparent quote after our free on-site inspection. No surprises, no hidden fees, and a $0 call-out fee for the quote.
Think of a fuse box replacement as an investment in your family’s safety. It can also increase your property’s value and ensure your insurance coverage remains valid.
Want an accurate quote for your property?
Call us on 0426 235 234 or
Residential and Commercial Fuse Box Replacement
Whether you're a homeowner or managing a business, AP Electrical Group handles fuse box replacements for all property types.
Homes
Many older Sydney homes — particularly in suburbs like Marrickville, Strathfield, Maroubra, and Chatswood — still have original fuse boxes from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. If you’ve recently moved into an older home, are renovating, or are planning to install solar panels or an EV charger, replacing your fuse box is a smart first step.
A modern switchboard will protect your family from electrical hazards, support all your modern appliances without tripping, and include spare capacity for future additions like solar or home automation systems.
For homes with large air conditioners or high-power appliances, a 3-phase switchboard upgrade may be required. We’ll assess your needs during our free inspection.
Businesses and Strata Properties
Commercial properties often have more complex electrical setups with multiple distribution boards, 3-phase power, and heavy-load equipment. If your business premises still has an old fuse box or outdated switchboard, you’re at risk of non-compliance with WorkCover NSW requirements.
We work with offices, restaurants, factories, retail spaces, and strata buildings to ensure electrical systems are safe, compliant, and capable of handling operational demands. We can schedule work after hours or in stages to minimise disruption to your business.
For a more detailed comparison of residential and commercial switchboard upgrades, visit our Switchboard Upgrades page.
Why Choose AP Electrical Group for Your Fuse Box Replacement?
When it comes to replacing your fuse box, you want electricians who know what they're doing and won't overcharge you. Here's why Sydney homeowners and businesses trust us.
Licensed Local Electricians with 10+ Years' Experience
Our team consists of fully licensed electricians — including Level 2 accredited service providers — with extensive experience upgrading fuse boxes and switchboards across Sydney. We know the local wiring systems and regulations inside out.
Honest Pricing with No Hidden Costs
We'll never oversell you. If your fuse box doesn't truly need a full replacement, we'll tell you. And when it does, our pricing is transparent and competitive — $0 call-out fee, no hidden costs, ever. Our reputation for honesty is backed by 5-star Google reviews from real Sydney customers.
Safety and Compliance Guarantee
Every fuse box replacement is tested, certified, and fully compliant with Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3000:2018). We issue a Certificate of Compliance and notify relevant authorities as required. If any issue arises after the work, we'll return and fix it promptly.
Quality Components and Workmanship
We use only high-quality, Australian-approved switchboards and parts from trusted brands. Every installation is neat, organised, and built to last — making future maintenance straightforward.
Free Fuse Box Inspections Across Sydney
Not sure if you need a replacement? We offer free, no-obligation inspections across all Sydney suburbs. Our electricians will assess your fuse box and give you honest advice on what’s needed.
Fuse Box Replacement Across All Sydney Suburbs
AP Electrical Group provides fuse box replacement services across all Sydney suburbs. No matter where you are, our local team is nearby and ready to help.
- Eastern Suburbs: Bondi, Coogee, Maroubra
- Inner West: Strathfield, Marrickville
- North Sydney & North Shore: Chatswood, North Sydney, Hornsby
- Northern Beaches: Manly, Dee Why
- Western Sydney: Parramatta, Penrith, Blacktown
- Southwest Sydney: Liverpool, Bankstown, Chipping Norton
Wherever you’re located in Sydney, our electricians arrive promptly to ensure your old fuse box is replaced safely and efficiently.
See our service areas.
0426 235 234
Get Your Fuse Box Replaced Today
Don't wait for blown fuses, flickering lights, or worse — an electrical fire — to take action. If your home or business still has an old fuse box, upgrading to a modern switchboard is one of the smartest safety investments you can make.
AP Electrical Group’s licensed Sydney electricians are here to help. We provide free, no-obligation inspections, honest pricing, and certified workmanship — backed by 5-star reviews and a satisfaction guarantee.
Call us on 0426 235 234 or book online to schedule your fuse box replacement today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fuse Box Replacement
Got questions?
Find your answers quickly in our handy FAQ section below.
A fuse box is an older type of switchboard. Both serve the same purpose — they distribute electricity to the circuits in your home and provide protection against electrical faults. The key difference is that a fuse box uses ceramic or rewireable fuses, while a modern switchboard uses circuit breakers and safety switches (RCDs). When electricians talk about a “fuse box replacement” or a “switchboard upgrade,” they’re generally referring to the same job: replacing your outdated fuse box with a modern switchboard.
An old fuse box on its own isn’t necessarily an immediate danger, but it does present significant safety risks. Without RCDs (safety switches), there’s no protection against electric shock. Ceramic fuses can be replaced with the wrong-rated fuse wire, allowing too much current to flow and potentially causing a fire. Old fuse boxes also weren’t designed for the electrical loads of modern homes, which increases the risk of overheating. If your fuse box has any of the warning signs listed above, we recommend having it inspected as soon as possible.
While you can replace individual fuse wires, this doesn’t address the underlying safety issues. Your fuse box still won’t have RCD protection, it still won’t meet current Australian standards, and it still won’t be equipped to handle modern electrical demands. Replacing the whole fuse box with a modern switchboard is the only way to properly upgrade your protection and ensure compliance.
Yes — absolutely. In Australia, all electrical work must be carried out by a licensed electrician. Fuse box replacement involves working with your property’s main power supply, which is extremely dangerous if not handled by a qualified professional. You may also need a Level 2 accredited service provider (ASP) if work on your mains supply or metering is required. AP Electrical Group’s team includes Level 2 ASPs who can handle the entire job.
A standard fuse box replacement typically takes between 3 to 5 hours. Your power will be off for most of this time, but we work efficiently to minimise the outage. In most cases, your power will be restored the same day.
In most cases, yes. Flickering lights and frequently tripping fuses are usually caused by overloaded circuits, loose connections, or inadequate wiring — all of which are addressed during a fuse box replacement. If there are additional wiring issues beyond the fuse box, our electricians will identify these during the inspection and include them in your quote.
A standard fuse box replacement in Sydney typically costs between $800 and $2,000+ AUD, depending on factors like the number of circuits, whether your mains need upgrading, and whether asbestos removal is required. We provide a firm quote after a free on-site inspection — no hidden costs and $0 call-out fee.
If your home was built before the late 1980s, there’s a reasonable chance your fuse box has asbestos panels or backing boards. Our electricians check for asbestos during every inspection and follow strict safety procedures for its removal if found. Never attempt to remove or disturb a suspected asbestos panel yourself.
Upgrading your old fuse box to a compliant modern switchboard can actually benefit your insurance position. Many insurers require electrical systems to meet current standards — an old, non-compliant fuse box could give an insurer grounds to deny a claim. After your replacement, we provide a Certificate of Compliance as proof that your electrical system meets all NSW safety regulations.
Your power will be completely off during the fuse box replacement, typically for 3 to 5 hours. We recommend planning ahead — charge your devices, and let us know if there are any specific timing requirements (such as working from home or medical equipment). We’ll work as efficiently as possible to get your power back on.
