Prepare Your Orange Home's Electrics for Summer

Summer Electrical Demands

Air conditioning is the dominant summer electrical load. A standard 5kW split system draws 1.5–2kW of power. Running multiple split systems simultaneously on a switchboard that was installed before AC was common creates real overloading risk.

If you're installing a new air conditioner this summer, check your switchboard capacity first. A dedicated circuit from the switchboard is required for all split system units — connecting to an existing circuit isn't compliant and is a safety risk.

RCD Testing Before Summer

RCDs can degrade over time. Testing before the heavy summer electrical season — when pool pumps, outdoor equipment, and extension cords for garden tools all add to the load — is worthwhile. Press the test button on each RCD in your switchboard. If it doesn't trip immediately or doesn't reset cleanly, call an electrician.

Outdoor and Pool Electrical Safety

Pool pumps, outdoor lighting, and outdoor power points all see heavy use in summer. Check that all outdoor power points have weatherproof covers. If your pool has any electrical fittings — lights, pump, salt chlorinator — these should be inspected by a licensed electrician every two years under NSW regulations.