Being able to redesign and improve our homes is all a part of the great Australian dream. There are a number of reasons why homeowners choose to renovate their homes. Renovating, when done right, can be a cost-effective alternative to moving, giving homeowners the feeling of a new home without the headaches. Electrical upgrades tend to be a common theme regardless of the type of renovation being done, providing both functional and cosmetic alterations to the home.
Taking the stress out of renovations
Whether we are wanting to increase the size of our home, add value to them or make them future-proof and more efficient, there are similar dos and don’ts to be considered. By following these simple tips, your renovation should be smooth and trouble free:
- Set a budget – Being realistic in what you can afford will ensure that your home will get upgraded as planned. Some sacrifices may need to be made for premium items if the budget doesn’t allow it, but it may not be forever. With many electrical upgrades, there is always the possibility of allowing provisions for installation at a later date. For example, homeowners may want to install LED strip lighting for a feature recess. While the lighting may not be installed as part of the renovation, an electrical feed can be placed there ready to go for when more funds are available.
- Know your electrician – All major electrical works in a home are legally required to be completed by a licensed electrician. Irrespective of how skilled a homeowner may be when it comes to DIY projects, an experienced and licensed electrician MUST be contracted. With this in mind, it pays to know who your local electricians are as well as their reputations. An experienced electrician will help you get the look you’re after while keeping to your budget.
- Get your switchboard ready – While a renovation can include adding power points and lights to existing rooms, or adding additional rooms altogether, we need to take a look at the heart of a home’s electrical system. Switchboards found in many older homes don’t comply with current requirements. Australian standards will mandate that the switchboard in any new home being built, or any significant electrical works being carried out, must be made to comply by installing Residual Current Devices (RCDs). By updating the switchboard not only are you providing a potentially life-saving feature to your homes, but a modern switchboard will be able to handle the additional load from the renovation.
- Integrate “smart” technologies – Modern fixtures and appliances are connecting in ways we never thought possible. Lights are being linked to motion sensors and home security systems for added safety. Heating and cooling systems can be switched on remotely so that your home is comfortable when you arrive. Integrating these new technologies into your home not only makes for a future-proof electrical system, but can also reduce your electrical bills by improving lighting efficiency in our homes.
- Plan your renovation – Knowing what needs to be done is important, but just as important is planning your renovation to the finest detail. Depending on the works being completed, you may find that specialised equipment needs to be hired. While the hire costs may be allowed for in your budget, poor planning can lead to delays and ultimately additional hire costs. Similarly, if a contractor is booked to attend your home and the site isn’t ready for them, homeowners may find they will be charged for additional visits.
A home renovation, particularly complex projects involving electrical upgrades, can seem rather daunting. By setting a realistic budget, finding the right electrical contractor and properly planning their renovation homeowners can easily reduce their stress levels.
Thinking of renovating and want to be steered in the right direction? Give the friendly team at Everest Electrical a call today on 0410 229 139.
