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In commercial buildings, you may find lighting fixtures that illuminate escape routes, stairwells, and safety signage to safely guide occupants to the exit. These bulbs are known as emergency lighting systems. This type of lighting installation activates when the regular power supply fails. It plays an important role during outages, fires, or other emergencies.

Beyond its purpose, a reliable emergency lighting system is more than a legal requirement. It is an important safety feature to have when establishing a commercial business. For business owners, maintaining these systems is a key aspect of regulatory compliance. In this article, we’ll tackle the best practices for maintaining backup lighting systems.

Importance of Emergency Lighting Systems

Emergency lighting is a fixture generally found in exit signage, corridors, and stairwells that is powered by a battery or generator. Common types of backup lighting include standby lighting, exit lighting, and emergency backup lighting that only activates in the event of the primary supply failure.

In Western Australia, commercial establishments are required to adhere to local building codes in order to operate their businesses. Specifically, business owners are required to follow the AS/NZS 2293 standards. This set of rules governs the emergency lighting systems and exit signage on buildings. This will ensure the safe evacuation of occupants during critical moments.

Why Proper Lighting Installation Matters

Noncompliance with building codes can result in penalties, fines, and increased liability. That said, improper lighting installation for emergency systems can fail when it is needed the most. In addition, this leaves occupants in the dark and exposes them to safety risks.

That’s why hiring licensed electricians in Perth for safe and compliant installations should be the topmost priority. These professionals assess the building’s layout, occupancy load, and fire safety strategies to ensure the correct installation of emergency systems. With careful attention, backup lighting fixtures become a dependable safety measure for years to come.

Best Practices for Emergency Lighting Maintenance

Proper maintenance guarantees that the emergency lighting installation functions when needed. That said, here are the standard procedures to ensure optimal performance of these systems:

Regular Inspection

The best practice for ensuring the emergency lighting system works is to conduct regular inspections and maintenance. A monthly visual check should be performed to confirm that units are unobstructed, indicator lights are functioning properly, and fittings show no signs of damage. In addition, periodic testing by a local electrician near you should be done at the following frequencies:

Biannual testing (every six months)

Comprehensive annual testing

Major testing at 10 years or at the end of the light source’s lifespan

Routine checkups ensure that backup power is capable of sustaining emergency lighting during a prolonged outage. This helps measure light levels, confirm battery capacity, and verify system redundancy to make sure all fittings meet current regulatory standards. It also helps prevent failures and ensures the safety of occupants during emergencies.

Routine Maintenance Tasks

Aside from regular inspections, routine maintenance tasks should be performed to ensure long-term performance. Faulty bulbs and LED modules should be promptly replaced. Batteries should be checked for voltage, capacity, and overall state of charge to confirm that they can provide reliable backup power when needed. In addition, wiring, connectors, and the electrical switchboard should be upgraded to keep the system aligned with changing safety codes.

Get Emergency Lighting Installation with SolArk Electrical

Commercial establishments are required to have emergency lighting that functions reliably during unexpected power outages. These systems ensure the safety of your premises, people, and reputation. With proper lighting installation, you can be confident that your building operates within established standards.

Fortunately, companies like SolArk Electrical exist to provide comprehensive commercial electrical services throughout Perth and Western Australia. With over 10 years of experience, our team of licensed electricians can manage all aspects of commercial electrical work. For more information, visit our website today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are frequently asked questions about emergency lighting to help you make informed choices for safety and compliance:

What are the three types of emergency lighting?

Emergency lighting typically comes in three types: maintained, non-maintained, and exit lighting. Maintained lights are always on and provide continuous illumination, while non-maintained lights only activate during a power failure. Exit lighting is specifically designed to guide occupants safely out of a building in the event of an emergency.

Do emergency lights need their own circuit?

Businesses in Perth are facing the pressures of rising electricity tariffs and growing daytime energy demand. The cost of keeping operations running during peak hours continues to climb for retail shops and manufacturers. This is even tougher for those who run powerful HVAC systems and energy-intensive machinery during operating hours.

As a result, business owners in Western Australia are considering commercial solar installations to cut down energy costs. Installing a solar PV system helps them generate their own electricity, reduce reliance on the grid, and cut overhead costs. Through these perks, solar becomes a long-term financial asset. That said, this article will explore three ways solar delivers those savings.

Why Business Owners Are Choosing Commercial Solar

Entrepreneurs opt for commercial solar installation as a proactive way to take control of energy costs. This helps them enjoy long-term savings and reduce exposure to market price spikes. Here are the three core ways solar helps slash energy bills:

1. On-site Generation Reduces Grid Electricity Consumption

Commercial operations typically peak during daylight hours, making solar energy an ideal match for business energy demand. Perth’s high solar irradiance makes it ideal for harnessing energy. This makes solar panels worth the investment, as they can provide consistent energy output throughout the year, allowing businesses to reduce reliance on grid electricity.

For this reason, business owners are encouraged to have a solar system that uses solar and battery in Perth. This allows businesses to offset most of their grid electricity usage during expensive daytime periods. This strategy helps avoid high-peak rates and reduces the need for feed-in exports, which are capped or limited in Western Australia.

2. Long-Term Financial Benefits & Government Incentives

One of the biggest advantages of getting commercial solar is the long-term cost certainty it offers. Unlike grid electricity, which fluctuates with market rates and network fees, solar energy is fixed-cost, depending on the sun. This shields businesses from volatile energy pricing and reduces operating risks.

In addition, there are multiple financial incentives that help offset the upfront investment. For example, the Australian Government issues Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) as a support to the clean energy transition. This makes commercial solar installation more affordable. When it comes to taxes, solar is considered a depreciable asset and commercial systems qualify for accelerated deductions under Australian business tax rules.

3. Smart Energy Management

Getting a commercial solar installation gives you control over the way you use solar energy, which directly impacts your savings. It allows you to schedule high-energy operations, so you can enjoy benefits like using inverter air-conditioners and machinery. In this way, your business can maximise on-site solar consumption.

In addition, you can increase your return on investment (ROI) just from an EV charging installation in Perth. This is perfect for electric company vehicles or staff use because you cut down costs on fuel and energy bills. And, with system monitoring tools, you’ll gain full visibility into how efficiently your business is using the solar power produced. This helps you spot issues early, make better energy decisions, and keep your system operating at peak performance.

Book a Solar Installation with SolArk Electrical

Business owners in Perth are gradually transitioning to commercial solar to cut energy costs and future-proof their operations. As such, they are gaining energy independence as they generate their own electricity on-site and take advantage of government incentives. With this, solar becomes a long-term investment that adds value to the business through stability and sustainability.

SolArk Electrical specialises in providing these services, including expert solar repairs and maintenance. For more information, check out our website today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are quick answers to questions about commercial solar panel installation and longevity that business owners should consider:

How long does it take to install commercial solar panels?

The installation timeline typically ranges from 2-5 days, depending on the system size, roof structure, and electrical setup. Additional time is also needed for permit approvals, grid connection, and commissioning processes, which usually take a few weeks.

How long do commercial solar panels last?

A safe and reliable electrical system is important for powering air conditioning and charging everyday appliances. However, problems like flickering lights or tripping breakers might indicate a deeper concern. When these happen, immediate action is required to prevent hazards.

On the surface, these issues may appear minor, but they could hint at outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or undiagnosed faults. For this reason, getting in touch with your local electrician is the best course of action. So, in this article, we’ll walk you through the electrical problems commonly found in Perth residential homes.

Why Maintenance Matters in Residential Properties

Electrical faults are one of the leading causes of house fires across Australia, and most of them could have been prevented with timely maintenance. Residential properties in Perth are especially vulnerable due to environmental and climate conditions. If left unchecked, this could lead you to find an emergency electrical service near you if the worst-case scenario happens.

To prevent these from happening, regular power inspections at homes should be done to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. This is done with the help of local electricians in your area. Doing so helps identify compatibility issues with modern appliances and solar systems that require proper circuit balance and grounding.

3 Common Electrical Problems in Perth Homes

Electrical issues in residential homes can be found in subtle signs like daily inconveniences. If these problems are not fixed, it could lead to much bigger problems behind the walls. That said, below are three electrical problems that Perth electricians are often called to fix in residential properties:

1. Flickering or Dimming Lights

Flickering lights are a fire hazard that is easily overlooked in residential homes. You might first notice lights dimming whenever an appliance is in use or flickering unpredictably at night. While this may seem minor, it often signals a deeper issue, such as loose wiring, overloaded circuits, or voltage fluctuations.

To properly address these issues, local electricians use tools like voltmeters or multimeters to detect inconsistencies in current. Electricians also examine switches, fixtures, and circuit connections for looseness or corrosion. This is why a professional should assess even a minor flickering to prevent any potential hazards.

2. Faulty or Dead Power Outlets

Faulty or non-functioning outlets are another red flag that should be addressed when dealing with electrical problems at home. Common signs of faulty outlets include sparking, malfunction, and heat when you touch them. In some cases, you may also detect a slight burning smell or discolouration around the socket.

For local electricians, these problems come from worn-out components, tripped Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets, or damaged internal wiring. Non-functional outlets can also indicate hidden moisture issues or wiring deterioration inside walls. To diagnose these issues accurately, professionals use a circuit tester or a receptacle analyser to ensure safe and effective repairs.

3. Frequently Tripping Circuit Breakers

If your circuit breakers often trip when running multiple appliances, it might indicate that your electrical system is under stress. Common causes include overloaded circuits, faulty appliances, or short circuits. This problem can also occur during periods of peak electricity demand, such as hot summer days or storms.

To address these problems, electricians isolate the affected circuit and use the amp clamp meter to measure the current being drawn. Then, they compare the readings with the circuit breaker’s rating to check for overloads and mismatched components. The problem often stems from an outdated switchboard that can’t meet current demands. In some cases, switchboard upgrades are recommended to improve safety.

If Problems Arise, Contact SolArk Electrical

Electrical problems often start with small signs like flickering lights, warm power outlets, or tripping circuit breakers. Although these problems may seem trivial, they can point to serious underlying issues like outdated wiring or overloaded systems. These are problems you can’t solve with mere guesswork or DIY fixes.

Because of safety hazards, homeowners in Perth are advised to seek professional assistance from their local electrician. At SolArk Electrical, we provide safe repairs and reliable electric services tailored to your home’s needs. We also offer solar panel repairs, maintenance, and installation services. For more information, check out our services today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Electrical issues at home can raise a lot of concerns when it comes to safety. Here are answers to some questions about residential electrical problems:

Does home insurance cover electrical problems?

In Australia, most home insurance policies cover damage caused by electrical faults such as fires or power surges. However, claims can be denied if the damage is found to be the result of poor maintenance, outdated wiring, or unlicensed electrical work. This is why it’s important for homeowners to get regular inspections..

What is the common problem with electricity?

Your switchboard controls the flow of electricity throughout your home, from lighting and power outlets to major appliances. Over time, older switchboards can become unsafe or struggle to keep up with modern technology demands.

In addition, an outdated system can increase the risk of electrical faults, tripping circuits, or even fire hazards. So, if you're planning renovations, installing new appliances, or experiencing frequent power issues, it may be the right time to upgrade your switchboard. As such, a qualified Perth electrician can assess your setup and ensure everything is safe and compliant.

Common Signs Your Switchboard Needs Upgrading

Clear warning signs suggest your current setup is no longer suitable. These include:

Frequent tripping of circuit breakers

Flickering lights or power surges

Overheating or buzzing sounds from the switchboard

Lack of safety switches

A burning smell near the switchboard

If your home still uses ceramic fuses or lacks Residual Current Device (RCD) protection, it’s time to act. These outdated systems were never meant to support modern appliances or high energy demands. So, an electrical switchboard upgrade improves safety and ensures your system meets current Australian electrical standards.

Safety Risks of Keeping an Outdated Switchboard

An outdated switchboard increases the risk of electrical fires, shocks, and appliance damage. Without proper circuit protection, your home could be vulnerable to electrical faults. Older fuse boxes also lack isolation capabilities, making repairs or upgrades more hazardous for electricians.

For example, if your system doesn't have RCDs, there’s no safeguard to cut power during a fault. RCDs are now legally required in most Australian homes to protect occupants from electrocution. With a licensed Perth electrician, it can assess your current setup, identify safety concerns, and recommend an appropriate switchboard upgrade to meet modern safety standards.

How Switchboard Upgrades Improve Safety and Performance

A modern switchboard includes circuit breakers, RCDs, and clearly labelled circuits, making it safer and more efficient. These features allow a licensed electrician to isolate and service specific areas of the home without shutting down the entire system.

In addition to that, circuit breakers automatically cut power during overloads or short circuits, reducing fire and shock risks. An upgrade also supports future electrical needs by providing space for additions like solar panels, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, or air conditioning units.

For growing households or renovated properties, a switchboard upgrade ensures your electrical system stays safe, compliant, and capable of handling today’s power demands.

Compliance with Australian Standards

Upgrading your switchboard ensures your home complies with current Australian electrical safety standards. These regulations evolve to protect homeowners from fire risks, electric shocks, and system overloads as technologies change. Homes that don't meet these standards may face insurance complications or reduced resale value.

Fortunately, a licensed Perth electrician can assess your current setup and complete the upgrade in accordance with AS/NZS 3000:2018, also known as the Wiring Rules. This ensures that every component is installed properly, providing safer, more reliable power distribution throughout your home.

What to Expect During a Switchboard Upgrade

The process begins with an inspection of your current system. The electrician will assess circuit load, look for non-compliant components, and plan for required upgrades. Typical steps include:

Removal of outdated fuse boxes

Installation of modern circuit breakers

Integration of RCD safety switches

Labelling and circuit isolation

Load balancing for efficiency

Provision for future expansion

The work usually takes half a day to a full day, depending on the size and complexity of your electrical setup. Plus, the power to your home is turned off during this time, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

How to Choose a Qualified Electrician in Perth

When searching online for "electric service near me", don’t settle for the cheapest option. Look for a local provider with a strong track record, proper licensing, and experience with residential switchboard upgrades. So, it’s best to check for verified reviews, workmanship warranties, and aftercare services.

After all, powerboard upgrades are not a one-size-fits-all job, as every home’s power usage and plans are different. That said, a reputable electrician will tailor the upgrade to your current and future needs, ensuring lasting safety and performance.

Make Your Home Safer With a Professional Upgrade

A modern switchboard protects your home from electrical faults, supports new appliances, and complies with evolving safety standards. Older systems often struggle with today’s energy demands, and warning signs like flickering lights, tripped breakers, or blown fuses. These issues can indicate serious underlying issues. So, upgrading your switchboard helps prevent these risks while improving energy efficiency and preparing your home for future technologies.

If you notice signs of an overloaded or outdated switchboard, don’t wait for a major issue to occur. With SolArk Electrical, we can help you with our professional, compliant switchboard upgrades that meet the highest industry standards. In fact, our Perth electricians are licensed, experienced, and ready to provide tailored solutions that ensure the safety and efficiency of your home. For more information, visit our website today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you want to learn more about upgrading your home's switchboard, check out these details!

What is a switchboard?

A switchboard is a panel that distributes electricity from the main supply to various circuits in a building. It houses safety devices like circuit breakers and RCDs.

What is the lifespan of a switchboard?

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