Polly in the Rafters

Parrots, Rodents + Wiring – DON’T MIX

As seen in the the Messenger Newspapers on July 26, 2017.

Intermittent Circuit Tripping – Don’t ignore winter danger signs

Question 1: That bird’s nest of broken wires looks terrible. What’s happened?

Answer: Parrots got into a roof space, set up camp, got hungry and started pecking through electrical cabling.

Q2: How did you discover this?

A: In the process of installing a power point for a new hot water system we talked to the owners about their old switchboard. They mentioned their lights had been intermittently tripping the circuit breaker for a few months. After testing we found issues with a lighting circuit. Serious parrot damage had created a potential fire and electrocution hazard. We rewired this area and made sure the entire household’s electricity safety was up to standard.

Q3: What’s the lesson to be learnt here?

A: The owners had got the birds out a couple of months ago but they never thought to look for any cabling damage or request an electrician to do this. They didn’t think the tripping lights were something to worry about but it was an important warning sign of potential danger.

Q4: So your electricians look beyond the obvious?

A: Yes. We have the knowledge and experience backed by a range of products to make your household safe in situations like these. Among them is a combination safety switch-RCD for $165. Our switchboard upgrades start from $680 with a 10-year warranty.

A regular Electrical Safety Service and Inspection will help you avoid dangerous and costly damage to your property.

A Sharpe Electrician will conduct:

• Visual, Electrical & Thermal Testing
• Appliance Safety & Usage Testing
• Switchboard/Meter Board Inspection
• House Electrical Systems Inspection

We recommend these checks be done every few years at your home & work.

Electrical Safety Service

Our comprehensive Electrical Safety Service and Inspection – performed by a qualified electrician, are strongly recommended to evaluate the condition of your electrical system as appropriate – especially if:

• Your house is more than 25 years old and has not had an inspection.

• You have old wiring in your house.

• You have any concerns about equipment that has been operating erratically, especially if appliances are more than 5 years old.

• You are planning to invest in upgrading your electric system, renovations, or the addition a swimming pool equipment or solar power system

• You are selling your property – providing reassurance to your prospective purchasers

Blog