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Tag: Electrician

How to trouble Shoot a Tripped Circuit
RCD Help Guide: The steps to trouble shoot your Tripped Circuit or tripped RCD

As an electrician in Batemans Bay, I often get calls about tripped safety switches (RCDs). This issue is common in many homes. The good news is that you can often fix it yourself. In this guide, I will walk you through the troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Identify the Cause

A tripped RCD could be from a faulty appliance or an overloaded circuit. Unplug all appliances from the affected circuit. Common culprits include kettles, toasters, and washing machines. Water exposure and damaged wiring can also cause the RCD to trip.

A tripped safety switch, circuit, RCD, or circuit breaker all refer to the same issue. People use different names, but they all indicate the same electrical problem. When a safety switch trips, your home signals that something is wrong with the electrical wiring.

Step 2: Reset the Safety Switch

Go to your switchboard and locate the tripped RCD. It will be in the “OFF” position. Push the switch back to “ON.” If it stays on, plug in each appliance one at a time. This will help identify a faulty device.

Step 3: Check for Overloads

If the switch trips again, the circuit may be overloaded. Appliances like dryers and heaters can draw a lot of power. If you use all these appliances at the same time, they may cause the circuit to trip. You could either try to avoid using all the appliances at the same time or ask you electrician for a quote to see if the power could be redistributing to different circuits. on some homes, this adjustment is possible, but in others, the existing electrical setup may not allow for it.

Step 4: Inspect for Faulty Appliances

Plug each appliance into a working power outlet. If one appliance causes the RCD to trip, it is likely faulty. Do not use the appliance until it has been repaired or replaced. Pay close attention to devices with exposed wires or burn marks. Do not use these appliances, they need to be checked by a qualified person or disposed of.

Step 5: Test for a Wiring Fault

If the RCD trips with nothing plugged in, there may be a wiring fault. Water damage, rodent activity, or loose connections can cause issues. Do not attempt to fix wiring issues yourself. It is best left to the experts. Call our licensed electrician who are located in Batemans Bay.

Step 6: Call an Electrician

If you cannot identify the problem, call our licensed electrician in Batemans Bay. Electrical faults can be dangerous if left unchecked. Our Batemans Bay electrician can test your circuits and repair any hidden issues.

What is an RCD?

A tripped RCD is a safety feature that protects you from electrical hazards. Understanding how to troubleshoot the issue can save time and money. If in doubt, always seek professional help. Safety should always come first.

A tripping safety switch (RCD) should never be ignored. It serves as a protective measure, indicating that there is something not right with your electrical system. By following these detailed steps, you can isolate the issue and take corrective action.

South Coast Electrical Solutions, your ‘southcoastsparky’ located in Batemans Bay has detailed guide on what to do if your safety switch trips (RCD has tripped). Here are the steps to diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your home remains safe and your daily routine uninterrupted.

safety-switch-has-tripped-diagnose Download

How to trouble Shoot a Tripped Circuit. The steps to follow when a circuit breaker trips:
Locate where the switchboard is inside or outside the house.

Identify which circuit has been tripped by looking which switch on the breaker has tripped to the ‘off’ position

Turn off all appliances and lights which are connected to the circuit that has tripped. Appliance cords also need to be removed from the power point.

Flip the circuit breaker switch back to the ‘on’ position to restore power to the circuit.

Test the electrical circuit to see if the appliances or lights trip, if they do trip then contact our electricians located in Batemans Bay
The Role of The Safety Switch

The role of the safety switch is to protect you from electric shock. They are designed to disconnect the power quickly (‘trip’) if an electrical fault is detected. This can happen if you have a faulty power point, faulty wiring or the electrical appliance that is being used is faulty. Safety switches are the only devices that will trip in the event of an electric shock to protect humans. Without safety switches, your switchboard has no protection against electric shock.

You may also have RCBO (a ‘Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent’) in your switchboard.

What is an RCBO (a ‘Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent’) This is a combination device that incorporates a safety switch and a circuit breaker. RCBOs provide the greatest level of protection against electric shocks and the prevention of overloading the circuits.

Ensuring Electrical Safety

If you’re experiencing ongoing issues with a tripping switch, don’t hesitate to call our electricians. South Coast Electrical Solutions are trusted experts in the Batemans Bay area. We want to ensuring your electrical Safety and are ready to assist you with your switchboard needs.

Electricians Near Me

South Coast Electrical Solutions are your local electricians in the Batemans Bay area providing top quality, reliable electrical services throughout the Batemans Bay area including:
Batehaven

Batemans Bay

Broulee

Catalina

Denhams Beach
Guerilla Bay

Lilli Pilli

Long Beach

Maloneys Beach

Malua Bay

Mogo
Mossy Point

Nelligen

Rosedale

Sunshine Bay

Surf Beach

Surfside
February 19, 2025
Guide to Understanding Circuit Breakers and RCBOs
Understanding Circuit Breakers, RCBOs and Fuses: Which is best for your home?

Understanding Circuit Breakers and RCBOs and Fuses. Here is our guide to Circuit Breakers and RCBOs and Fuses, their key Differences Explained.

A Guide to Circuit Breakers and RCBOs and Fuses: Key Differences Explained

Understanding Circuit Breakers and RCBOs and Fuses. Here is our guide to Circuit Breakers and RCBOs and Fuses, their key Differences Explained. As a homeowner, ensuring your electrical system is safe and reliable is essential. Fuses, circuit breakers, and RCBOs (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent protection) are all designed to protect your home from electrical faults. While they serve similar functions, each works in a different way. In this blog, We’ll explain the differences to help you choose the right option for your home.

Explain the differences – fuses, MCBs, RCDs, and RCBOs

Fuses: The Traditional Protector

Fuses are one of the oldest methods of electrical protection. A fuse has a metal wire inside a glass or ceramic casing. This wire melts in the fuse when too much current flows through it, disconnecting the circuit and preventing damage. Porcelain fuses are are traditional house wiring method and are no longer used in modern homes or in switchboard upgrades.

For example, if you overload a circuit, like using a toaster, microwave, and kettle on the same circuit, the fuse blows. This stops the electricity flow and prevents overheating. The downside is that fuses need to be replaced every time they blow, which can be inconvenient and costly.

Circuit Breakers: The Modern Solution

Circuit breakers in your switchboard, offer a more modern approach to protection. Like fuses, they disconnect the circuit when the current exceeds a certain limit. However, instead of melting wire, a circuit breaker trips an internal switch to stop the electricity flow.

For example, if you overload a circuit or experience a short circuit, the circuit breaker will trip. Once the issue is fixed, you can reset the circuit breaker. This is more convenient than replacing fuses each time they blow.

RCBOs: Comprehensive Protection

RCBOs provide both overcurrent and earth leakage protection. An RCBO combines the features of a circuit breaker and an RCD (Residual Current Device). It can detect both excessive current and leakage of electricity to the earth.

For example, let’s say there’s a problem with a faulty washing machine that causes a leak of current into the earth. An RCBO will immediately disconnect the circuit, preventing the risk of electric shock while also protecting the wiring from any overcurrent damage.

Which Should You Choose?

Circuit Breakers and RCBOs: The type of protection you need depends on your home. If your home still uses fuses, consider upgrading to circuit breakers for added convenience and safety. For the highest level of protection, especially in homes with sensitive appliances, RCBOs are the best choice.

Circuit Breakers and RCBOs: Key Differences Explained

As a local electrician in Batemans Bay, I recommend ensuring your home is equipped with the right protection. If you’re unsure which option to choose, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Safe electrical protection is crucial for your home and family.

Circuit Breakers and RCBOs: Key Differences Explained, I hope this helps clear up the differences between these important devices. Stay safe, and remember that a well-protected home is a happy home!

Trouble Shooting a Tripped safety switch RCD or (Tripped Circuit)

RCD Help Guide: The steps to fix your Tripped RCD or (Tripped Circuit breaker) HELP! WHAT DO I DO WHEN MY SAFETY SWITCH TRIPS? Step-by Step instructions below.

RCD Help Guide:

South Coast Electrical Solutions, your ‘southcoastsparky’ located in Batemans Bay have detailed guide on what to do if your safety switch trips (RCD has tripped). Here are the steps to diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your home remains safe and your daily routine uninterrupted.

Electricians Near Me

South Coast Electrical Solutions are your local electricians located in the Batemans Bay area providing top quality, reliable electrical services throughout the Batemans Bay area including:
Batehaven

Batemans Bay

Broulee

Catalina

Denhams Beach
Guerilla Bay

Lilli Pilli

Long Beach

Maloneys Beach

Malua Bay

Mogo
Mossy Point

Nelligen

Rosedale

Sunshine Bay

Surf Beach

Surfside
February 10, 2025
Follow these steps to plan a successful kitchen renovation.
Steps to Planning a Successful Kitchen Renovation.

Follow these steps to plan a successful kitchen renovation. Are you planning on installing a new kitchen in your home in Batemans Bay? Here are Steps to Planning a Successful Kitchen Renovation. Planning is the key to running a smooth renovation.

Be sure to call your local Batemans Bay electrician early in the planning of your kitchen design.

Be sure to call the electrician early in the planning of your kitchen design. If you’re planning your kitchen renovation, there is so much to consider. From the layout, to splashbacks to what appliances you would like… the list is endless. South Coast Electrical Solutions, located in Batemans Bay, are expert electricians in powering up new and renovated kitchen. Our electricians take care of the electrical requirements for your new or renovated kitchen. When you decide on renovating the kitchen, have a chat with one of our friendly licensed electricians. They will help to make your new kitchen dream take shape

Be sure to call our electricians early in the planning of your kitchen design. Early plans in discussion of your renovation and the electrical requirements will help with the planning. This will enable the electrician to design of an electrical plan that is functional, affordable, and complements your dream kitchen renovation in Batemans Bay.

Everyone wants their kitchen needs to look great, so do we! We know that the kitchen is the heart of the home and our electricians can wire up your new kitchen with safety and function in mind to make sure you can enjoy your new kitchen now and into the future. We look forward to helping you achieve the the perfect balance of looking great with the electrical function of your new kitchen.

Steps to Planning a Successful Kitchen Renovation
- Step 1: Plan and research. Understand your needs. Make your wish list. Gather your ideas. Draft a layout.
- Step 2: Set Your Budget. .
- Step 3: Plan your kitchen layout. Call your qualified and licensed trades people. Ask for quotes.
- Step 4: Choose your finishes, appliances, lighting, power points, plumbing fittings, cabinets, benchtops etc
- Step 5: Demolition and construction.
Our electricians in Batemans Bay provide installation of all types of ovens, cooktops and stoves:
Built-in Microwave Ovens

Electric Ovens

Double Ovens

Freestanding Stoves

Warming Drawers

Pyrolytic Self-Cleaning Ovens
Steam Ovens

Benchtop and Convection Ovens

Electric cooktops

Induction cooktops (if upgrading from a standard cooktop, the incoming circuit may needed to be upgraded, call us to check if you are not sure)
Our electricians in Batemans Bay provide installation of all types of ovens, cooktops and stoves. If you’re renovating your kitchen, you may wish to move the position of your kitchen appliances to another area of the room. If you are moving an electric freestanding stove or cooktop and oven to another location in your kitchen, we have the electricians to move or replace wiring to the new location.

Any renovation requiring plumbing or electrical work needs a licensed and qualified professional.

What to Consider with a new Kitchen Renovation Installation

As with any electrical installation, when you’re dealing with electricity. It is recommended to use a licensed electrician who is qualified to perform the installation. When you call South Coast Electrical Solutions, you are calling a company experienced with the right qualifications and licenses. You know you can trust us with your electrical power point and lighting installation. South Coast Electrical Solutions are able to replace and install new power points inside and outside your property in Batemans Bay. Call us today to make an appointment.

An Electrical switchboard upgrade may be required?

An Electrical switchboard upgrade may be required particularly if you live in an older home. The electrician will need to check the current switchboard can accommodate new power points. If several new power points are installed your electrical system will need to be able to cope with the load placed on it. If the switchboard is out of date it could become overloaded. An out of date switchboard could possibly lead to your power tripping and possibly even a fire.

We recommend only using an licensed electrician to assess your homes switchboard and installing your new power points. Our electricians will be able to tell you whether your current switchboard can support the new kitchen power points you wish to have installed. Our electricians can also let you know if you need to have your switchboard upgraded.

Pre – planning the electrical layout in your kitchen renovation with your electrician

After you have picked your kitchen installation company. Call our electricians early in the planning of your kitchen renovation design. We will discuss your kitchen layout plans and the electrical requirements. This will enable our electricians to help you to design an electrical plan that is functional, affordable, and compliments your kitchen renovation. If you’re considering a kitchen renovation, then it’s important to prep-plan the electrical requirements to maximise functionality while ensuring safety.

You may wish to move the position of some of your kitchen appliances to another area of the room. If you are moving an electric freestanding stove or cooktop and oven to another location in your kitchen, we have the electricians to move or replace wiring to the new location.

Plan your kitchen lighting with our electricians

Plan your kitchen lighting with our electrician, is the key to great lighting. The kitchen is often the focal point of your entertaining. Lighting makes a big difference in a kitchen space. It is a place where family and friends gather to eat, drink and enjoy one another’s company.

Your kitchen renovation needs to look great and we would like to make sure we help you strike the perfect balance to make your kitchen a true joy to cook and entertain from.

Electrician for your Kitchen Renovation in Batemans Bay. Plan your lighting layout with us.

Planning how many Power points should be in your kitchen renovation.

Plan how many power points you should need in your kitchen renovation. What appliances you will leave on the bench and what you will bring out when needed. Our electrician will help with the placement of the power points. Our electricians know the legal requirements for the distance from things such as the kitchen sink.

There are many modern power points you can choose from to compliment your kitchen renovation.

Use our licensed electricians in Batemans Bay for your kitchen renovation

As with any electrical installation, when you’re dealing with electricity. You should use a licensed electrician who is qualified to perform the installation. When you call South Coast Electrical Solutions, you know you’re calling a company experienced with the right qualifications and licenses. You know you can trust us with your kitchen renovation. We are able to install power points, lights, ovens, cooktops and stoves in your new kitchen. Call us today to make an appointment.

Our electricians service the following areas:
Batehaven

Batemans Bay

Broulee

Catalina

Denhams Beach
Guerilla Bay

Lilli Pilli

Long Beach

Maloneys Beach

Malua Bay
Mossy Point

Nelligen

Rosedale

Sunshine Bay

Surf Beach

Surfside
May 28, 2024
Outdoor Power Point Installation what you need to know
Outdoor power point installation, what you need to know.

Do you need an outdoor weather proof power point for your pool equipment, spa or electric mower in Batemans Bay? Our fully licensed electricians are here to help. Make the most of your outdoor spaces by installing weather-proof rated outdoor power points and switches.

Weather-proof outdoor power points

South Coast Electrical Solutions , located in Batemans bay, install weatherproof outdoor power points. There are many different reasons our customers have outdoor power points installed. Have one installed for vacuuming your vehicle. Or for your gas hot water service to plug into. If you like to use power tools outside. Outdoor power points can safely be installed and are easy to use and convenient. They come in a range of colours and styles for different uses.

South Coast Electrical Solutions always happily provide information to our customers when they ask us to install outdoor power points.

Outdoor power points, what you need to know.

As home owners we might underestimate the convenience of having an outdoor power points. Outdoor power points can be incredibly useful. They will allow you to run equipment or tools in your yard without using extension cords. If you like to keep your car clean and you may find it more convenient to have an outdoor power point installed.

What to consider Before Installing Outdoor Power Points

The weather elements generally expose outdoor areas of the home. We do not recommend installing regular power points in outdoor areas. Clipsal make weatherproof products ultra-durable. Clipsal construct outdoor powerpoints that are constructed from Heavy-Duty Plastics and Temperature Resistant technology. Weathershield® can withstand the frozen Snowfields of Thredbo, through to the heat of the Simpson Desert.

Rain, hail or shine, safely enjoy reliable power all year round:
Water and Dust Protection

Sunlight and Colour Fade Resistance
Impact and Corrosion Resistance

Black, Grey and White Colour Options
Always use a licensed electrician to install new or replace outdoor power points.

Why do electricians not recommend installing standard power points on the outside of your home?

Indoor power point outlets cannot withstand harsh weather conditions. Property owners and electricians must ensure that a licensed electrician completes their electrical wiring work. Using a non IP rated fitting outside increases the likelihood of moisture or water entering the fitting. This causes nuisance tripping of circuit breakers or damage to the outlet. Standard power points cannot be installed on the outdoor areas of your property and it is recommended only weather-resistant power points to be installed by an licensed Electrician. This is includes all power points installed outdoors, including those around patios, spas, pools, and decks.

Installation of Quality weatherproof outdoor power points

The key differentiator between indoor and outdoor power points lies in their construction. At South Coast Electrical Solutions, located in Batemans Bay, we supply and install quality outdoor power points that best suit the environment in which we install them.

From outdoor power points and EV chargers, to deck and pool lighting. Give South Coast Electrical Solutions a call to install your new outdoor power point in Batemans Bay.

What to Consider with a new outdoor Power Point Installation

As with any electrical installation, when you’re dealing with electricity, you should use a licensed electrician who is qualified to perform the installation. When you call South Coast Electrical Solutions, you are contacting a company in Batemans Bay, that has the right qualifications and licenses and is experienced. You know you can trust us with your electrical power point installation. South Coast Electrical Solutions are able to replace and install new power points inside and outside your property in Batemans Bay. Call us today to make an appointment.

Upgrade the Electrical switchboard?

You may need to consider an electrical switchboard upgrade. Especially if you live in an older home where the switchboard has not been upgraded. Our electrician will need to check the current switchboard can accommodate more power points. If several new power points are installed your system will need to be able to cope with the load placed on it. If the switchboard is out of date it could become overloaded. This could possibly lead to your power tripping and possibly even a fire.

We recommend only using an licensed electrician to assess your homes switchboard and installing your new power points. Our electricians located in Batemans Bay, will be able to tell you whether your current switchboard can support the new outdoor power points you wish to have installed. They can also let you know if you need to have your switchboard upgraded.

Ask your Electrician Check Your Switchboard

Your professional Batemans Bay electrician will also need to check your switchboard before they begin the power point installation. If you overload the switchboard, it may overheat. This can cause an electrical fire hazard. If you’re adding electrical power points and using many more appliances, your electrician will need to check if your switchboard can handle the extra electricity you will draw.

Our electricians service the following areas:
Batehaven

Batemans Bay

Broulee

Catalina

Denhams Beach
Guerilla Bay

Lilli Pilli

Long Beach

Maloneys Beach

Malua Bay
Mossy Point

Nelligen

Rosedale

Sunshine Bay

Surf Beach

Surfside
March 19, 2024
Do you need an electrician for your bathroom renovation?
Do you need an electrician for your bathroom renovation in Batemans Bay? Here are some things to consider when choosing exhaust fans, power points, lights and LED mirrors for your bathroom renovation. South Coast Electrical Solutions electricians located in Batemans Bay and are here to provide you with advice on anything electrical for your bathroom renovation.

Power Points in your Bathroom renovation around Hand Basin and Vanities

Installing power points next to the vanity requires strict safety standards to be adhered to. Power points near water supplies are dangerous and Australian wiring rules must be followed by electricians for safety when power points are installed in the bathroom. Our electricians in Batemans Bay know the rules and regulations in the Australian standards and will ensure that the power points are installed at a safe distance from taps and water sources. Book our licensed electrician for your bathroom renovation in Batemans Bay, Call us today.

Things to consider around baths and Power Point installation in your bathroom renovation.

When installing a bath you should consider the placement of power points relative to the bath tub location. There are limits to how close a power point can be to a water source like a bath or hand basin. Check with our electricians on the legal distance from the closest power point. Do you need an electrician for your bathroom renovation in Batemans Bay? Call us to make an appointment today.

When renovating your bathroom, consider the Bathroom Lighting you would like.

Lighting in the bathroom sets the tone. Getting the tone of the bathroom lighting right is important. When considering the lighting for the bathroom, good quality lighting can transform the overall appearance and ambience. Keep in mind when choosing the bathroom lights the functional space of the area. People need to be able to see clearly in the mirror when doing makeup, hair or shaving. Our electrician can provide ideas for choosing suitable light fittings to suit your bathroom renovation. Do you need an electrician for your bathroom renovation in Batemans Bay? Call us to make an appointment today.

Do you need an electrician for your bathroom renovation in Batemans Bay?

Bathroom Exhaust Fans, which fan to install when renovating your bathroom.

Whether your room requires a ceiling, wall, window, or inline exhaust fan, South Coast Electrical Solutions in Batemans Bay are here to provide you with advice and recommendations when making the choice.

Which type of Bathroom Exhaust Fan will suit your home?

The exhaust fan positioned correctly, will extract steam, heat and odour from the bathroom and it will also help reduce mould and mildew growth. There are many options for exhaust fans on the market and choice of the exhaust fan depends on the space available in the roof area above the bathroom. Installing an exhaust fan in your bathroom will require a licensed electrician. Do you need an electrician for your bathroom ceiling exhaust fan installation or replacement in Batemans Bay? Call us to make an appointment today.

Ceiling vented exhaust fan

Ceiling vented exhaust fans are the most popular choice for bathroom and toilet ventilation in Australia. They are very cost effective and do the job effectively. They work well when the roof is tiled as there are small gaps in the tiles to allow proper ventilation. They are usually not suitable for flat roofs or corrugated iron roofs as there may not be enough airflow in the roof space and moisture will build up.

Heat/Light/Fan Exhausts Units

A great option if you want a bit of warmth in the winter months are the 3 in 1 heat/light/fan units. They include light, exhaust fan and heat lamps. They are able to be switched independently. A few things to consider if you are installing heat/light/fan exhaust units are the running costs of the heat lamps.

Wall exhaust fan

If your home has a solid concrete ceiling or no ceiling cavity a wall exhaust fan might be the best option for the room. Wall exhaust fans can come with a pull switch or can be wired to a regular switch.

Window exhaust fan

These fans are installed in glass window panel and are vented directly outside. If the bathroom doesn’t suit a ceiling exhaust fan, these are a great alternative option. Please note that the glass window will require a glazier to cut a hole for the exhaust fan.

*Other exhaust fan options are inline exhaust fans, roof mounted exhaust fans.

Bathroom Mirrors with lighting

The mirror you install in your bathroom should complement the size of the room. Mirrors come in all different shapes and sizes. Some mirrors come with built in LED lighting and will require a licensed electrician to install power behind the mirror. Ask our electricians to install the wiring whilst the bathroom is in renovation stage.

You may need your switchboard upgraded when you renovate your bathroom

An upgraded switchboard will mean you will have a switchboard that meets the current Australia standard. These have safety switches and circuit breakers installed throughout the board as well as labelled. RCDs (Safety switches) installed in your switchboard may not appear like much, but these devices save lives.

It is important that your home is electrically sound. Make sure your family is safe and ask for a free quote for a switchboard upgrade from one of our licensed electricians at South Coast Electrical Solutions in Batemans Bay.

Choose a licensed electrician to do your electrical work for your bathroom renovation to keep you, your family safe.

Electricians to call for your bathroom renovation in the following Batemans Bay Suburbs:
Batehaven

Batemans Bay

Broulee

Catalina

Denhams Beach

Guerilla Bay
Lilli Pilli

Long Beach

Maloneys Beach

Malua Bay

Mossy Point
Nelligen

Rosedale

Sunshine Bay

Surf Beach

Surfside

Tomakin
Do you need an electrician for your bathroom renovation in Batemans Bay? Call us to make an appointment today.
June 18, 2020
Christmas light safety tips for your home.
Tips to be safe when you put up Christmas Lights

Tips to be safe when you put up Christmas Lights. It’s that time of the year when Christmas lights light up our homes both inside and out. During this time it’s important to remember to be electrically safe when putting up the lights and decorations (and taking them down).

Christmas light safety tips for you and your home.

Below are some simple electrical safety guidelines and tips that should be followed to help keep you and your family electrically safe this Christmas.

South Coast Electrical Solutions urges everyone installing Christmas lights to use common sense with any electrical equipment you use. If you are not experience or not sure, contact a licensed electrician

What to check when buying new Christmas lights.

As with all electrical products, Christmas lights must meet Australian Safety standards and are required to have an Australian certificate of approval.
- Beware of buying Christmas lights over the internet from overseas,
- Always buy Australian compliant Christmas lights
- If you are not sure what to look for NSW Fair Trading website has information
- Buy your Christmas lights from a reputable dealer who will know the electrical safety requirements for selling Christmas lights in Australia
- Outdoor Christmas lights will have an IP rating (e.g. IPX3, IP23, IP44), this number shows how weatherproof the light is – the higher the numbers, the better the weatherproof rating. Outdoor equipment must have at rating of least IP23. It’s not safe to use indoor lights outdoors as they don’t have the additional weatherproof ratings
- Use extra-low voltage outside, such as LED lights. Selecting energy-efficiency Christmas lights will significantly reduce your power bill
- Use solar Christmas lights if you can – it’s safer for you and better for the environment
A few checks before you put up your Christmas lights
Inspect your Christmas lights for any signs of wear and check there is no damage to the electrical wires

It is not advisable to use sets of Christmas lights that have any broken globes or missing globes
Do not alter or modify lights

Use indoor lights indoors and outdoors light outdoors

Make electrical safety a high priority

Make sure all the globes are fitted correctly
Are you installing Christmas lights outdoors?
Only use outdoor lights for outside your home

Make sure plugs are fully inserted into sockets and are tight fitting

Check the manufactures safety instructions before you put them up

Do not install lights near any flammable materials

Do not overload power boards or power points

If you intend to put the lights on the outside of your property, make sure that they are manufactured for outdoor use

Do not attach Christmas lights to overhead powerlines that connect to your house

Be aware of the location and height of powerlines when carrying ladders and setting up the Christmas lights

Always unwind extension leads to avoid possible overheating
Wear non slip footwear and use safety equipment and common sense when using ladders

Do not install, adjust or move Christmas lights while they are on or plugged in

Test your safety switches in your switchboard and make sure they are working

Don’t wrap Christmas lights around anything sharp that may damage the wires

Don’t put Christmas lighting around swimming pools or wet areas

Make sure the connections for outdoor use are weatherproof

Avoid using double adaptors or piggy back plugs

If you use power boards, make sure they are fitted with over-load protection
Putting up indoor Christmas lights
Lights suitable for indoor use should only be used indoors, this will be written on the packaging or on the lights near the plug

Test your safety switch and smoke alarms before setting up your lights

Keep the lights away from Children

Turn off your Christmas lights before you go to bed

Do not leave your Christmas lights on if you are not at home
Everyday Safety tips for putting up Christmas lights
- Always unplug the Christmas lights before you go to bed or leaving your house
- Make sure your smoke alarms are in working order
- Ensure extension cords or the cords on the Christmas lights don’t become a trip hazard or become damaged
- Switch off the power before plugging in or pulling out the plug and hold the plug not the cord
- Avoid using double adaptors
- Always unwind extension leads to avoid possible overheating
- Check the Government website http://www.recalls.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/952401 for any safety recalls on Christmas lights
What to do with the Christmas lights after the Christmas Season

Packing away Christmas lights can be a tiring job, especially as the January weather is usually the hottest time of year. If you look after your Christmas lights you will get a longer life from them. Christmas lights are designed for temporary use, leaving the lights up for extended periods will deteriorate the life of the lights and also create a higher risk of electrical hazard.

Use correct safety equipment when setting up Christmas Lights
Unplug the Christmas lights before you start taking them down

Store and pack Christmas lights in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions

Remove batteries from solar Christmas lights and store them separately

Always store Christmas lights so that the wires and lights do not become damaged
As you take down the lights, inspect the lights and wiring and dispose of any that are damaged

Store the lights in the original packaging

Keep the sets together, the lights with the correct power transformer

Store Christmas lights in a dry area
To get any further advise on safe Christmas lighting contact a licensed electrician. South Coast Electrical Solutions would like you to stay safe this Christmas season and have a Merry Christmas.
December 11, 2017
Will LED panel lights save my business money?
Why LED panel lights will save your business money.

How can my business safe money on on electricity bill?

Is your business looking for ways to save money? Many businesses, commercial shops and offices are now considering changing to LED panel lights. LED lighting benefits are too good to ignore.

Here are the top four reasons to change to LED panel lights for your business.

Energy cost savings:

Rising electricity costs are a big cost to businesses. With no decreases from electricity companies on the horizon, businesses continually need to look for ways to cut costs. When businesses change their fluorescent lights to LED panel lights they will instantly benefit from lower energy costs. Therefore your business will be benefiting from lower electricity bills. What are the cost benefits to your business when changing to LED lighting? LED panel lights use approximately 30% to 50% more power than that of a fluorescent light.

Sophisticated look:

LED panel lights have a very sleek design and are aesthetically pleasing to the eye. They emit pleasant uniform lighting colours. The shape of the LED panel light is ultra-thin and there is a great range of lighting colours to choose from to suit your work space. The use of LED panel lights in your office will create the professional appearance. LED panel lights will compliment your professional appearance.

Long-Life Span:

Many businesses have Fluorescent lighting already however if you are considering new lighting, changing to LED panel lighting. LED panel lighting are a great way to reduce your energy costs. A typical fluorescent tube has a lifespan of approximately 9,000 hours. LED panel lights have a lifespan of approximately 50,000 hours which is five times longer than the old fluorescent fittings.

The lifespan of the fluorescent tube is affected by the turning on and off of the light. The more that they are turned on and off the shorter the life span of the tube. LED bulbs do not have this limitation.

No tubes or starters to replace:

Given the design of the LED panel light, it is relatively easy for our electricians to install LED panel lights into existing buildings. LED blubs generate bright, directional lighting, without the extra heat, which means that you can have the light you need exactly where you need it. Compared to fluorescent lights that are not as bright and the light that is produced dissipates easily. The benefits of having the directional lighting can significantly improve productivity and make it easier to see paperwork, computer screens or your stock.

How can South Coast Electrical Solutions Help?

We have helped a wide range of offices and retail outlets to create more productive environments and lower electricity bills. Business that we have helped already that are now benefiting from lower electricity bills are the following: solicitors offices; a furniture stores; real estate offices; medical clinics; and accountants offices.

Ask for a Quote

Get great advice on energy efficient lighting with the use of LED panel lights, call South Coast Electrical Solutions today to discuss the possibilities and get a quote

As well as saving
you money through
reduced electricity
usage, energy efficient
lighting will require far
less maintenance as
operating life is longer.

Energy efficient
lighting uses less
energy without
compromising
on brightness
and quality.

Our commercial electrician services include:
Complete electrical and data fit outs

Building maintenance, compliance RCD testing

Test and tag of electrical equipment

Emergency and Exit lighting

Globe replacement maintenance
Extra circuits and power points

Fault finding and breakdown service

Office fit outs, wiring, data, lighting and power

Switchboard upgrades

Safety checks

Surge protection

Smoke alarms
UPS installation

Energy saving LED and Induction lighting

Shop lighting illumination

Sign lighting

Wiring and maintenance

Cabinet and pendant lighting

Business relocation or renovation
Our electricians service the following areas:
Batehaven

Batemans Bay

Broulee

Catalina

Denhams Beach
Guerilla Bay

Lilli Pilli

Long Beach

Maloneys Beach

Malua Bay

Mossy Point
Nelligen

Rosedale

Sunshine Bay

Surf Beach

Surfside

Tomakin
February 7, 2017