Autumn Electrical Safety Checklist: Smoke Alarms, Heaters, and More

Autumn Electrical Safety Checklist: Smoke Alarms, Heaters, and More

As autumn arrives in Launceston and across Tasmania, many homes begin switching on heaters, electric blankets, and other electrical appliances that may not have been used for several months.

This seasonal change significantly increases the risk of electrical fires, overloaded circuits, and appliance faults.

According to Australian fire authorities, winter and late autumn see a rise in house fires caused by heating appliances, faulty electrical cords, and overloaded power boards.

Performing a seasonal electrical safety checklist before winter helps prevent these risks and ensures your home’s electrical system is operating safely.

This guide explains what to check, why it matters, and when to call a licensed electrician in Launceston.

Why Electrical Safety Checks Are Important Before Winter

Electrical demand increases during colder months because households rely more heavily on heating appliances.

Common winter electrical risks include:

  • Portable heaters drawing high electrical loads
  • Electric blankets with damaged heating elements
  • Multiple appliances plugged into one power board
  • Old smoke alarms with flat batteries
  • Damaged extension cords and plugs
  • Moisture affecting outdoor electrical outlets

These issues can lead to overheating circuits, electrical faults, and fire hazards.

A simple autumn electrical inspection helps identify problems before they become dangerous.

What Should Be Included in an Autumn Electrical Safety Checklist?

A proper home electrical safety check should include:

  • Smoke alarms
  • Heating appliances
  • Power boards and extension leads
  • Electrical cords and plugs
  • Switchboard and safety switches
  • Kitchen appliances
  • Outdoor electrical outlets

Some of these checks can be done visually, while others require a licensed electrician to inspect the electrical system.

Test Your Smoke Alarms and Replace Old Units

Smoke alarms are the first line of defence against house fires.

In Tasmania, smoke alarms must be installed in hallways near bedrooms and on each level of the home.

You should test smoke alarms regularly to ensure they detect smoke quickly during an emergency.

Smoke alarm safety checklist

  • Press the test button to confirm the alarm sounds
  • Replace batteries if needed
  • Clean dust from the alarm vents
  • Check the manufacturing date

Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Older smoke alarms may fail to detect smoke early enough to prevent injury or property damage.

Check Portable Heaters Before Using Them

Portable heaters are one of the most common causes of winter house fires in Australia.

Before turning on a heater that has been stored during summer, inspect it carefully.

Heater safety inspection checklist

Look for:

  • Cracked casing
  • Frayed power cords
  • Loose plugs
  • Dust inside ventilation openings
  • Burning smells when first turned on

Heaters should never be plugged into power boards because they draw high electrical loads.

Heater safety rules

  • Keep heaters at least 1 metre away from furniture, curtains, and bedding
  • Never leave heaters running unattended
  • Always switch heaters off before sleeping

If your home relies on efficient heating systems, professional heat pump installation in Launceston can provide a safer and more energy-efficient alternative to portable heaters.

Learn more about heat pump installation services

Are Electric Blankets Safe to Use in Winter?

Electric blankets are commonly used across Tasmania during cold nights.

However, older electric blankets can become dangerous over time.

Electric blanket inspection checklist

Before using your blanket each winter:

  • Check for exposed wires
  • Look for scorch marks or damaged fabric
  • Ensure the controller works properly
  • Avoid folding heating elements tightly

Electric blankets should typically be replaced every 5 to 10 years. Never use electric blankets with visible damage.

Avoid Overloading Power Boards and Electrical Circuits

Overloaded circuits are one of the most common causes of electrical fires. During colder months, several high-power appliances may run at the same time, including:

  • Portable heaters
  • Electric blankets
  • Clothes dryers
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Heated towel rails

Plugging too many appliances into a single outlet can cause excessive electrical load and overheating.

Power board safety tips

  • Do not plug heaters into power boards
  • Avoid connecting power boards together
  • Use surge-protected power boards where possible
  • Unplug appliances when not in use

If your home frequently runs out of power outlets, a licensed electrician may recommend additional power points or a switchboard upgrade.

Learn more about switchboard upgrades and electrical maintenance.

Inspect Electrical Cords, Plugs, and Appliances

Damaged cords are a major electrical hazard.

When performing your autumn safety check, inspect every visible cord in your home.

Replace cords that show

  • Cracks in insulation
  • Exposed wires
  • Loose plug connections
  • Burn marks near plugs

Electrical repairs must always be completed by a licensed electrician under Australian electrical standards (AS/NZS 3000).

Never attempt to repair electrical wiring yourself.

Test Your Safety Switch (RCD) at the Switchboard

Safety switches, also known as Residual Current Devices (RCDs), protect against electric shock by shutting off power when a fault occurs.

Every home should have RCD protection installed in the switchboard.

How to test a safety switch

  1. Locate the switchboard
  2. Press the TEST button on the safety switch
  3. The power should immediately turn off

If the switch does not trip, it may need servicing or replacement.

Professional RCD testing services can ensure safety switches operate correctly.

Check Kitchen Appliances and Cooking Equipment

Kitchen appliances also contribute to electrical hazards if they are faulty.

Common appliances that should be inspected include:

  • Electric ovens
  • Cooktops
  • Microwaves
  • Kettles
  • Toasters

If appliances cause tripped circuits or unusual smells, they may require repair.

Professional stove and oven repair services can resolve electrical faults safely.

Inspect Outdoor Electrical Outlets and Lighting

Autumn in Tasmania often brings increased rain and moisture.

Outdoor electrical fittings should be weatherproof and properly sealed.

Check outdoor electrical equipment for

  • Cracked weatherproof covers
  • Water damage
  • Rusted fittings
  • Loose wiring

Outdoor electrical faults should always be inspected by a licensed electrician.

When Should You Call a Licensed Electrician?

Some electrical issues cannot be detected through a simple visual inspection.

Contact a licensed electrician if you notice:

  • Flickering lights
  • Circuit breakers frequently tripping
  • Power points that feel warm
  • Burning smells near outlets
  • Electric shocks when touching appliances

Electricians can perform thermal imaging inspections to detect hidden electrical faults before they cause fires.

Learn more about thermal imaging electrical inspections

For workplaces and commercial environments, test and tag services in Launceston help ensure electrical equipment remains compliant.

A Simple Autumn Electrical Safety Checklist for Homeowners

Here is a quick checklist you can follow before winter.

Smoke alarms

  • Test alarms monthly
  • Replace batteries
  • Replace alarms older than 10 years

Heating appliances

  • Inspect portable heaters
  • Check electric blankets
  • Clean heater vents

Power boards and outlets

  • Avoid overloaded power boards
  • Never plug heaters into extension leads
  • Replace damaged power boards

Electrical cords

  • Replace frayed cords
  • Check plug connections

Switchboard

  • Test safety switches
  • Inspect circuit breakers

Outdoor electrical fittings

  • Check weatherproof covers
  • Inspect outdoor lighting

Completing this checklist each autumn significantly reduces the risk of electrical fires and appliance failures during winter.

Stay Safe This Autumn in Launceston

Autumn is the perfect time to prepare your home’s electrical system for the colder months ahead.

Testing smoke alarms, inspecting heaters, and checking electrical wiring can help prevent fire hazards, electrical shocks, and appliance damage.

If you are unsure about any electrical issue, a licensed electrician in Launceston can perform a professional electrical safety inspection to ensure your home remains safe throughout winter.

 

Installing an EV Charger at Home in Launceston

Installing an EV Charger at Home in Launceston

Installing an EV charger at home in Tasmania can be a smooth process if you understand the key requirements and safety standards. Launceston homeowners and landlords should know why dedicated wiring, switchboard capacity checks, and professional installation are essential for a safe, compliant EVSE setup. This guide breaks down what the AS/NZS 3000 wiring rules mean in plain English, how to prepare your home’s electrical system, and what makes an EV charger installation both compliant and safe.

A licensed electrician installing a home EV charger in a garage. Professional installation ensures compliance with Australian wiring rules and safety standards.

What’s an EVSE and How Home Charging Works

EVSE stands for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment, essentially the charging station or wall charger that supplies power to your EV. Home EVSE units (often Level 2 AC chargers) connect to your household electricity to charge your car much faster than a standard wall outlet. While a basic portable “granny charger” (Mode 2) can plug into a normal socket for slow charging (~10–15 A), a wall-mounted EVSE is hardwired on a dedicated 240-volt circuit for higher power (typically 32 A). This hardwired Level 2 charger can deliver around 7 kW of power, adding roughly 40–50 km of driving range per hour of charging. In practical terms, that means you can fully recharge most EVs overnight at home. If your home has a three-phase supply, even higher-capacity chargers (11 kW or 22 kW units) are possible, but single-phase 7 kW chargers already offer an excellent balance of speed and cost for daily home charging.

When you plug in, the EVSE communicates with your vehicle to safely deliver AC power to the car’s onboard charger, which then converts it to DC to charge the battery. The EVSE includes built-in safety mechanisms and follows standards to ensure the charging voltage and current are controlled. In short, a home charging station lets you conveniently recharge at home so your EV is always ready, but it must be installed correctly to handle the high electrical load safely.

Safety and Compliance Basics (AS/NZS 3000 Made Simple)

Home EV charger installations in Launceston (and all of Australia) must meet the requirements of the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000:2018). In plain English, these rules are there to make sure any electrical work – especially adding a high-power device like an EV charger – is done safely and correctly. Here are the fundamental safety and compliance points you need to know:

Only a licensed electrician can install an EV charger: By law, all fixed electrical work (including EVSE installation) must be done by a fully qualified, licensed electrician. DIY installation is illegal in Tasmania (as in all states) and can lead to fines or serious hazards. A licensed electrician will also provide a Certificate of Electrical Safety upon completion, proving the work meets standards. This not only keeps you safe but also preserves your EV charger’s warranty and your insurance coverage. If you need urgent help after-hours or you’ve got concerns about electrical safety, it’s best to speak with a local team offering emergency electricians in Launceston.

AS/NZS 3000 wiring rules must be followed: These cover everything from circuit design to protective devices. The rules mandate a dedicated circuit, proper overcurrent protection, and RCD (safety switch) protection for each EV charger. Compliance ensures the installation can handle the load and helps prevent electrical shocks or fires. In Tasmania, the same national standards apply, and electrical regulators expect all EV charger installs to tick these boxes. For property owners who want added assurance around electrical safety, services like thermal imaging inspections for electrical hot spots can help identify overheating components and risk points inside a switchboard before they become a bigger issue.

Why compliance matters? A non-compliant or shoddy installation isn’t just illegal, it’s dangerous. Poor wiring or missing safety devices greatly increase the risk of electric shock, electrical fires, or damage to your EV and home. In fact, if an unlicensed or non-compliant installation causes a fire or damage, your home insurance may be void due to the breach of regulations. Following the rules is essential for safety and peace of mind.

In short, compliance with the wiring rules means your charger will be installed the right way, with the correct circuit, breaker, cabling, and safety devices, so you can charge your car confidently and legally. Next, we’ll look at preparing your home’s electrical system for the new charger.

Does Your Switchboard Have Enough Capacity?

Installing a high-powered EV charger can be like adding a big new appliance to your home, so it’s critical to ensure your electrical switchboard and supply have enough capacity. Your switchboard is the panel that distributes electricity around the home (often where your circuit breakers or fuses are). An EV charger will draw a significant current (e.g. ~30–32 A for a 7 kW unit) directly from the mains via the switchboard. Here’s what to consider to make sure your system is ready:

  • Electrical load and main supply: An electrician will perform a load calculation or assessment of your existing electrical infrastructure and usage. They’ll check the rating of your main switch or fuse and the total load of your household (things like ovens, air-con, heaters running simultaneously). Many older Tasmanian homes might have a 40–63 A main supply; adding an EV charger could approach that limit. If your mains supply is limited or already near capacity, you may need a supply upgrade or load management solutions. Sometimes the charger can be configured to reduce current if other loads are on, or you might charge during off-peak times when other appliances aren’t in use. Charging overnight is a common strategy since other household loads are low and off-peak electricity rates are cheaper.

  • Switchboard physical space and condition: Your switchboard must have space for a new dedicated circuit breaker for the charger. If all slots are full, a minor switchboard upgrade or extension may be required. Additionally, if you have an old fuse box or outdated switchboard (with rewireable fuses, no RCDs, etc.), the electrician might recommend upgrading it to a modern one with circuit breakers and safety switches to meet current standards. This not only makes the EVSE installation possible but also improves overall electrical safety in your home. If your property needs this work, you can explore switchboard upgrades, testing and maintenance in Launceston to understand what’s involved and why it matters before adding an EV charger.

  • Single-phase vs. three-phase: Most homes in Launceston have single-phase power, which can support chargers up to ~7 kW on a dedicated 32 A circuit. If you happen to have a three-phase supply (more common in newer or larger properties), you could install a higher-capacity charger (for example, 11 kW or 22 kW) that uses all three phases for faster charging. However, higher-capacity chargers will further test your system’s capacity and might require approval from the utility (DNSP) if very large. For the average homeowner, a single-phase 7 kW charger is usually sufficient for overnight charging needs, and it can be installed without changing your supply connection. Your electrician will advise what your system can handle and whether any upgrade is needed for the charger you want.

In summary, checking your switchboard capacity is a crucial first step. A reputable installer will inspect your switchboard, meter, and cabling to ensure they can safely accommodate the EV charger’s load, and will undertake any necessary upgrades to make the installation compliant. Don’t skip this assessment, it’s about making sure your home is ready to power your EV reliably and safely.

Dedicated Circuit, RCD, and Circuit Breaker: What They Do

One phrase you’ll hear often is that an EV charger needs a “dedicated circuit” with RCD and circuit breaker protection. These aren’t just technicalities, they are vital safety requirements. Let’s break down each component of a proper EVSE circuit and why it’s needed (according to AS/NZS 3000 and best practice):

A wall-mounted EV charger on its dedicated circuit with an adjacent isolation switch. The charger’s supply is protected by a dedicated breaker and an RCD (often combined as an RCBO) back at the switchboard for safety.

  • Dedicated circuit: This means the EV charger is wired on its own circuit straight from the switchboard, not shared with any other outlets or appliances. No other device (like a dryer or pool pump) should tap into this line. A dedicated circuit ensures the charger has the full electrical capacity it needs and prevents other devices from overloading the line. It also means when the charger is in use, it won’t trip or be affected by other circuits, and any fault with the charger won’t cut power to other appliances. Essentially, it’s a single-purpose highway for electricity going to your EVSE, as required by the wiring rules.

  • Circuit breaker (overcurrent protection): The circuit must include a dedicated circuit breaker at the switchboard, sized for the charger’s current (for example, a 40 A breaker for a 32 A charger circuit). The breaker’s job is to protect against overloads or short circuits. If the EV charger (or its cable) tries to draw more current than it’s rated for, say due to a fault or surge, the breaker will trip (cutting power) before any damage occurs. This prevents overheating of the wiring which could lead to fires. It’s a crucial safety mechanism and also required by law for each charger circuit. (Often, electricians use an RCBO, which is a single device that combines a breaker and RCD in one, as described next.)
  • RCD protection (safety switch): An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a life-saving device that detects any imbalance of current (leakage) that could indicate an electric shock and cuts power almost instantly. In simpler terms, if electricity is straying somewhere it shouldn’t, like through a person or a fault to earth, the RCD will trip and stop the current. RCDs are mandatory on all domestic circuits in Australia, including EV charger circuits. 

    The wiring rules specify that an EV charger’s circuit must be RCD-protected, either by a standalone RCD or an integrated RCBO. Importantly, the type of RCD may depend on the charger: modern EVSE units often have built-in 6mA DC leak detection, which means a standard Type A RCD is acceptable; if not, a special Type B RCD (which can detect DC leakage) must be used. Your electrician will select the correct RCD type for compliance, but rest assured some form of RCD/safety switch is absolutely required to protect you and your family from electric shock.

    Together, the dedicated circuit, breaker, and RCD form a protection trio that keeps your EV charging setup safe. They ensure the charger only draws what it should, and any fault is quickly isolated. When your electrician installs the charger, they will label the new circuit at your switchboard (and sometimes fit an extra isolation switch near the charger for maintenance). These measures all work in unison to deliver power for fast charging while prioritising safety.

    Location, Cable Routing, and Outdoor Installations

    Where and how you mount your EV charger at home can affect both convenience and safety. Here are some key considerations for choosing the location and setting up the physical installation of your EVSE in Launceston:

    • Charger location: Most homeowners install the charger in a garage or carport, or on an exterior wall next to the driveway. Pick a spot close to where you park so the charging cable can easily reach your vehicle’s charging port without stretching. The unit should be mounted on a solid structure (wall or a dedicated pedestal) at a convenient height, typically at least 800 mm off the ground per Australian requirements. This height keeps the charger and cables clear of puddles or minor flooding and makes it easy to plug in. Also consider proximity to your switchboard: a shorter distance means simpler wiring and less voltage drop (which is good for efficiency).

    • Cable routing and length: Your electrician will route the supply cable from the switchboard to the charger. They might run it through the roof space, along walls in conduit, or underground if needed. The goal is a neat, safe installation with no exposed wiring that could be damaged. If the run is long, they will use appropriately sized cable to handle the load without voltage drop or overheating. Many quality chargers come with tethered cables of various lengths (commonly 5m or 7m). Choose a cable length that suits your parking arrangement – longer cables give flexibility but are heavier to handle. You’ll want enough length to comfortably reach your car’s port, but avoid excessive slack lying on the ground. A tidy cable management (hooks or reels) can keep the charging lead off the floor to prevent tripping or drive-overs.

    • Indoor vs outdoor: In Tasmania, weather can be wet and cold, so if your charger is outdoors or in a semi-open carport, make sure to use an outdoor-rated unit. Look for a charger with a sufficient IP rating (Ingress Protection), e.g. IP54 or IP65, meaning it’s built to withstand rain and dust. The installation itself should also account for weather – for instance, using UV-stabilised conduit for outdoor cabling and properly sealing any wall penetrations. If installed outdoors, the charger should be in a spot protected from mechanical damage (like not in the path of car bumpers or where garden tools might hit it). Placing it under some eave or shelter is ideal, though quality units can handle direct exposure if needed.

    • Space and access: Ensure there is adequate space around the charger to walk and move safely. It shouldn’t block any doorways or pathways. Also consider ventilation, while EV chargers don’t typically get extremely hot, a bit of airflow around the unit is good (don’t box it into a tiny sealed cabinet). If you’re installing in a garage, mount the charger where the cable can reach the car without the car having to be perfectly positioned each time. Marking a consistent parking spot or adding wheel stops can help line up the car to the charger cable easily.

      By thoughtfully choosing the location and planning the installation layout, you’ll end up with a convenient charging station that is safe and user-friendly. Whether on an inside wall or outdoors, follow the guidelines (height, protection, reach, etc.) to get the most out of your home EVSE setup.

      Ready to install your EV Charger?

      Installing an EV charger at home in Launceston is a fantastic upgrade that adds convenience and value to your property. By following the guidelines above, checking your electrical capacity, using a dedicated circuit with proper RCD and breaker protection, and always hiring a licensed electrician for a compliant, safe installation, you’ll ensure your EV charging is trouble-free. A well-planned installation not only keeps everything up to code (AS/NZS 3000) but also optimises charging performance for your electric vehicle. With the right setup, you can plug in your car each day with confidence, knowing your home charger is safe, efficient, and built to Australian standards.

      If you manage rental properties, workshops, or commercial sites where portable tools and appliances are used alongside EV charging infrastructure, ongoing compliance checks like Test and Tag services in Launceston can support broader electrical safety programs. And if your charger installation sits near other high-load appliances, keeping them in safe working order with specialist stove and oven repairs for Tasmanian homes can help reduce unnecessary electrical strain on older household circuits.

      Summer Electrical Safety Tips for Launceston Homes

      Summer Electrical Safety Tips for Launceston Homes

      Summer in Launceston brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and more time spent at home or entertaining outdoors. It also places extra demand on your home’s electrical system. Increased use of air conditioners, heat pumps in cooling mode, ceiling fans, and outdoor power can significantly raise household electrical load. Combined with summer storms and lightning activity, this creates a higher risk of overloads, outages, and electrical hazards if systems aren’t prepared.

      As a long-established, family-owned electrical business with deep roots in Northern Tasmania, read the Mance Electrical story and local history, the team at Mance Electrical has spent generations helping local homes stay safe through every season. These summer electrical safety tips are designed to help Launceston homeowners reduce risk, improve efficiency, and know when to call a licensed electrician.

      If you’re looking for practical guidance year-round, you can also browse our latest articles in the electrical safety and home advice hub.

      What changes in summer that affects your electrics?

      Heatwaves increase household electrical load.
      During summer, cooling appliances often run for extended periods. Air conditioners and heat pumps draw high startup current, especially during peak heat. When multiple high-wattage appliances operate on the same circuit, the risk of circuit overload increases. This is why many homeowners experience breakers tripping more often during heatwaves.

      You may also notice lights flickering when the air conditioner turns on. This typically indicates a temporary voltage drop caused by a high inrush current, particularly if the circuit is already near capacity.

      If your home is relying heavily on cooling, it may be worth checking whether your system is running efficiently, filters, airflow, correct thermostat setpoint. For households upgrading or installing a more efficient unit, our team can help with heat pump installation for Launceston homes.

      Higher temperatures stress electrical components.
      Electrical systems operate less efficiently when ambient temperatures rise. Wiring, switchboards, and outlets can heat up faster under load. Homes with older switchboards or limited circuit capacity are especially vulnerable during prolonged hot weather.

      Summer storms introduce surge risk.
      Thunderstorms can cause lightning-related power surges that travel through the electricity network. These surges can damage sensitive electronics unless proper surge protection is in place. Summer electrical safety isn’t just about load management, it’s also about storm preparedness.

      Quick safety checklist (5-minute scan)

      This Launceston summer electrical checklist helps identify common risks quickly:

      • Test your safety switch (RCD)
        You should test your safety switch every three months. Press the test button on your switchboard, it should trip immediately. If it doesn’t, the RCD may not protect against electric shock and should be inspected. Homes without modern protection should consider switchboard upgrades, testing, and maintenance for safer homes.
      • Check cooling appliances for efficiency
        Clean air conditioner filters and ensure outdoor units are clear of debris. A clean system uses less energy, reduces kWh usage, and places less strain on circuits. Set thermostats sensibly, extreme low setpoints increase peak load without improving comfort.
      • Inspect power boards and outlets
        Feel outlets and power boards while appliances are running. Warm plugs, discolouration, or a burning smell are signs of overload. You must not overload power boards, particularly with high-wattage cooling appliances.
      • Review extension lead use (especially outdoors)
        Extension leads should only be used temporarily. Outdoors, they must be weather-rated and kept dry. If outdoor power is used regularly for BBQ lighting or garden equipment, fixed outlets are a safer long-term solution.
      • Prepare for storms (simple storm surge checklist)
        Identify sensitive electronics you can unplug during severe weather. Check surge protector indicator lights to ensure they’re still functional.

      If you’d like a professional safety check across your home’s circuits, outlets, and switchboard, explore our residential electrical services in Launceston.

      Power boards & extension leads: what to avoid

      Overloaded power boards increase fire risk.
      Power boards are designed for low to moderate loads. Plugging multiple high-draw appliances into one board, or into a double adaptor, significantly increases the risk of overheating and electrical fire.

      You must not:

      • Daisy-chain power boards or extension leads
      • Plug portable air conditioners into power boards
      • Cover power boards or place them in enclosed spaces
      • Run extension leads under rugs, through doorways, or where they can be pinched

      If a breaker trips repeatedly, then reduce the load immediately and arrange an inspection. Persistent tripping is a warning sign, not an inconvenience. If you need urgent help, contact our emergency electricians in Launceston for fast fault finding.

      For workplaces, or home offices with lots of equipment plugged in, routine safety checks also matter, particularly when devices are added for summer operations. Our team provides test and tag services in Launceston for appliance safety compliance.

      Storms & surges: what surge protection does (and doesn’t)

      Surge protection reduces damage from lightning-related surges, but it has limits.

      Surge protectors:

      • Absorb transient voltage spikes
      • Protect electronics from indirect lightning and grid switching
      • Reduce appliance damage during minor surge events

      They do not:

      • Prevent blackouts
      • Replace safety switches (RCDs)
      • Guarantee protection from a direct lightning strike
      • Last forever (they degrade over time)

      For stronger protection, many Launceston homes benefit from surge protection integrated at the switchboard. This can be assessed during professional switchboard testing and safety upgrades, especially ahead of storm season.

      For added prevention, you can also consider proactive fault detection with thermal imaging inspections to identify hot spots in circuits, particularly useful when heatwave circuit load is pushing older connections harder than usual.

      When to call an electrician (red flags)

      You should contact a licensed electrician if you notice:

      • Repeated circuit breaker trips, especially during hot days
      • Warm, buzzing, or discoloured outlets
      • Burning smells or crackling sounds
      • Frequent flickering lights under normal load
      • Heavy reliance on power boards due to insufficient outlets
      • No visible safety switches in the switchboard

      If something feels urgent, especially burning smells or visible damage, don’t wait, reach out to our 24/7 emergency electrician team in Launceston.

      For non-urgent improvements and preventative upgrades, you can review our full range of electrical services for homes and property owners or get in touch via the Mance Electrical contact page.

      Stay cool, stay safe this summer

      Electrical safety is about preparation, not reaction. With sensible summer load planning, safe appliance use, and professional inspections where needed, Launceston homeowners can reduce outages, prevent overheating, and protect their families and property.

      To learn more about who we are and why local families have trusted us for generations, visit the Mance Electrical story. And if you need help now, whether it’s an upgrade, a fault, or urgent support, start here, contact Mance Electrical in Launceston.

      Does Your Stove Have An Anti Tilt Bracket?

      Anti Tilt Brackets Are Required To Be Fitted To All New Freestanding Stoves

      A modern stove without an anti tilt bracket can easily tip forward, causing serious injury – usually to young children.

      The most common type of injury happens when the young child pulls down the oven door and stands on the door as a step to get higher up.  The stove tilts forward, spilling boiling liquid onto the child, often causing horrendous injuries.

      In order to prevent these injuries, all new stoves are supplied with an anti tilt bracket.  These metal brackets are usually designed to be screwed to the floor.  When the stove is pushed back against the wall the bracket locks onto the stove feet or a into slot in the back of the stove.

      When the anti tilt bracket is correctly installed and the stove is pushed back against the wall, the bracket prevents the stove from tipping forward.  To comply with Australian Standards an anti tilt bracket should be able to withstand up to 50kg of weight applied to the door.

      New stoves are much lighter compared to the old stoves they replace and most of the weight is at the top.   This means it is usually easier to tip over a new stove than an old one.

      Currently, there is no requirement to fit an anti tilt bracket to an existing stove if it doesn’t have one.  But if you remove your old stove and install a new one you must fit the anti tilt device supplied by the manufacturer and according to the manufacturers instructions.

      Some cheaper stoves have chains designed to be fixed to the wall behind the stove.  The chain system will only be effective if the chain is kept quite short and the end of the chain is fixed to a wall stud, not just screwed into the plaster.  The floor mounted anti tilt brackets are usually a better solution.

      We have carried out repairs on plenty of fairly new stoves that have been installed without an anti tilt bracket.   Some installers are ignoring the regulations and installing new stoves without the brackets that prevent the stove tipping forward.

      It is quicker and easier to toss the anti tilt bracket out with the stove packaging and pretend there is no such thing. However, any installer who does this is ignoring the manufacturers installation instructions and the Australian Standards and placing children’s lives at risk in order to save a few dollars.

      When you get a new freestanding stove make sure your installer fits the correct anti tilt bracket to prevent the stove tipping, including the pin that prevents the stove sliding forward away from the anti tilt bracket.

      When you book your job, make sure the installer you choose will remove your old stove and dispose of it free of charge!

      And once your anti tilt bracket is securely fixed in place make sure you don’t leave pot handles hanging over the front of the stove where young children could reach up and grab them.

      Common Oven Repairs – Door Seals And Hinges

      Is Your Oven Slow To Heat Up? Does It Seem To Take Ages To Cook Something Properly?

      If your oven is heating up but taking a long time to get to the correct temperature then the element is probably ok.  Elements usually tend to work or fail, not operate at half power.

      Check The Thermostat
      The problem could be the thermostat, and you can check that yourself if you have a cooking thermometer.  Place the thermometer in the oven, set the oven thermostat to 180 degrees and when the oven indicator light goes out, check the temperature on the thermometer.  It might not read exactly 180 degrees but it should be fairly close.  If it is substantially different then the thermostat will probably need replacing.

      Check The Door Seals
      Another common cause of your oven being slow to heat up and taking a long time to cook your food is a faulty door seal.  A damaged or missing or poorly fitting door seal can allow much of the heat to escape, resulting in slower cooking times.

      Door seals are fairly easy to replace and you can do it yourself as long as you get the correct spare part.  To get the correct part you will need the model number of your oven.

      Find The Model Number

      Getting the model number is not always as easy as it should be, as most manufacturers seem to either hide this valuable information, or put it on a sticker that is designed to fade and become illegible soon after purchase.  Check for stickers inside the oven or grill door, or on the back the removable kick panel below the oven door. If you are lucky enough to locate and actually decipher a model number you have a good chance of getting the right door seal.

      Check The Door Hinges
      Loose or worn door hinges are another common cause of heat loss that results in slow cooking times.  The oven door hinges may be worn out if you can see a gap at the top of the door, and the door does not close firmly against the body of the oven.  You may also need to change the door hinge guides, which are inside the oven body.  New hinges won’t make a lot of difference if worn out hinge guides are not replaced.

      Once again, having the model number of the oven, not just the model name, will be important for getting the correct parts.

      If you are losing heat from your oven due to worn hinges or a faulty door seal then it’s also costing you money in extra power used due to the extended cooking times.

      If you are having problems with slow cooking times and low oven temperatures, or need any oven repairs fixed as quickly as possible …

      Replacing Your Kitchen Hot Plates

      When it’s time to replace your kitchen hot plates there are a couple of things to consider.

      The most important factor in a successful cooktop replacement is ensuring the new hot plate unit will fit the existing hole in the bench top.  Older style hot plates were often a rectangular shape while most new cooktops are almost square.

      The model number of the existing unit and an accurate measurement of the cut out in the bench will help you when selecting a new cooktop.

      You need to ensure that any new glass top has a sufficient overlap and is properly supported by the bench.  Cooktops without enough overlap are more likely to shatter.

      If you are replacing your cooktop because the ceran glass top has broken, don’t forget to check your insurance policy as you may be covered for the breakage.

      Our advice would be to stick with Australian brands and avoid imported units, due to the cost and difficulty of obtaining spare parts in the future.

      Also avoid the linked units where the hotplate controls are on the oven.  In the event of a major fault you will be forced to replace both items rather than just the oven or just the hotplates.

      If you have spare cash to splash on your kitchen upgrade, consider installing induction hot plates.  Stay tuned, as we will be epxploring the advantages and features of induction hotplates in an upcoming blog post.

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