Electrical maintenance is a difficult thing, and beyond changing a lightbulb or resetting things in your switchbox there's really not much you're allowed to do yourself.
Carrying out any maintenance on your own is likely not only to be extremely dangerous, but also illegal. Likewise, if you're not a qualified electrical contractor and you tamper with any electrical appliances or any of your home's fittings, you're also likely to forfeit your insurance, which could be a very big deal if disaster strikes.
We've listed some basic maintenance advice below, but for anything requiring installations alterations, connections, disconnections or repairs, you should always hire a qualified electrical contractor.
When do I need an electrician?
Installation work? Maintenance work? Need something replaced or upgraded? Find out what kinds of work electricians do, and when you need to call one.
How to choose an electrician
There's not much electrical work you're legally allowed to do for yourself in Australia. Find out when you need to hire an electrician, and how to find the right one.
10 tips to reduce your power usage
Learn the secrets to cutting your bills and improving your energy efficiency. Cutting electricity use is a great way to save both money and the environment.
How to use your switchboard / switch box
Not sure about how your switchboard works? Have the lights or appliances gone out only in one part of the house? Find out how to use your safety switches, circuit breakers or fuses.
What to do when plugs are arcing or sparking
It's not normal - or safe - for your plugs to arc or spark. Find out why this happens, and what you need to do when you notice that your plugs are arcing or sparking.
How to use your switchboard / switch box
Not sure about how your switchboard works? Have the lights or appliances gone out only in one part of the house? Find out how to use your safety switches, circuit breakers or fuses.
What to do in an electrical emergency
Electricity can be very dangerous when things go wrong. Find out what you should do when you have an emergency that involves electricity.