Do I need to check my Safety Switch?
TL;DR (Quick Answer)
- Yes — check it or let Metrolec experts do this for you every few months. It is critical to ensure it cuts off quickly and effectively should something go wrong.
- If it won’t trip or won’t reset, call a licensed electrician right away. In effective Safety Switches are life threatening.
- Old, damaged, or constantly tripping units should be professionally assessed and likely replaced.
- Need help? Call Metrolec on 0408 821 131 for friendly advice and testing.
What our Customers say ...
Worked wonders!
Jack and the team were able to work wonders with our air conditioner install, it was a complicated job, and they completed it with high quality. Money well spent.
Emergency Callout
Pete did an emergency call out for us on a Saturday night, and very competently fixed the problem, giving a clear explanation, and follow through. His attention to detail and safety was excellent, and he answered all our questions clearly. He was very fair and reasonable in charging for his services. We confidently recommend him.
Extremely good service and value for money
Following our extremely good service and value for money from Metrolec when replacing our air conditioning we asked Pete and Jack to come back out and update some lighting for us, changing from our traditional 70s lighting to LED down lights. They were prompt, efficient and ensured that we were informed as to the best options for our living areas. We couldn't be happier with the results. I actually didn't realise how much difference down lights would make to the functionality of our home until we finished the install and turned them on. Modern, effective and they've completely changed the look of our living areas.
We couldn't be happier
Following our extremely good service and value for money from Metrolec when replacing our air conditioning we asked Pete and Jack to come back out and update some lighting for us, changing from our traditional 70s lighting to LED down lights. They were prompt, efficient and ensured that we were informed as to the best options for our living areas. We couldn't be happier with the results. I actually didn't realise how much difference down lights would make to the functionality of our home until we finished the install and turned them on. Modern, effective and they've completely changed the look of our living areas.
Best Electrician ever.
Peter at Metrolec electrical I highly recommend.
Best Electrician ever.
I thought this old-fashioned service died with the birth of the millennials.
It is so good to see that such excellent service is still here. Thank you, Pete, for your quick response and for solving a very difficult electrical problem.
Thanks mate.
He even followed up!
Peter went above and beyond to fix our electrical issues outside of hours (11:30pm!) with great patience and kindness. He even followed up the next day to make sure the issue was still resolved - amazing service! We would be happy to recommend him to anyone.
Ben Smith
I'd recommend using Peter from Metrolec for any electrical or air conditioning needs. He was very helpful over the phone and once I had made my mind up to wanting a new split system he booked me in and had it installed within 4days. Peter and his team were very honest and reliable with very high quality workmanship. I'll be definitely using them again in the future and will be forwarding his name to my friends and family.
100% happy customer Thanks again Peter
I cannot speak highly enough of Metrolec
10 months ago
I cannot speak highly enough of Metrolec Electrical and Air-conditioning. They are prompt when returning calls. They are informative and keep the customer "in the know" with regard to what decisions they are making. For example, when I recently needed two power-points they made sure that I understood what the problem was. They used lay-persons' language to help me understand. Their communication and respectful manners make speaking to them hassle-free. I can recommend them highly.
Don't wait till it fails!
Why checking your safety switch matters
Your safety switch watches for tiny “leaks” of electricity (like if a tool, appliance, or wet surface becomes live) and shuts the power off fast. If it’s sticky, worn, or faulty, it may not trip quickly—or at all. A 10‑second check a few times a year helps avoid nasty shocks, electrical fires, and insurance headaches if something goes wrong.Can you check it?
- Of course, but the team at Metrolec are experts in this field. Why take any risks when it comes to personal safety and the safety of your family home.
Five simple signs your safety switch needs testing or replacement
1) It keeps tripping for “no reason”
Occasional trips happen—storms, a dodgy kettle, wet outdoor sockets. But regular random trips suggest a hidden fault or a tired switch. Try unplugging appliances one by one; if it still trips with nothing plugged in, it’s time to get it checked.2) It won’t reset or stay on
If the lever won’t latch ON, the switch is seeing a fault—or it’s failed internally. Don’t force it. Leave it OFF and book a licensed electrician. This is one to treat as urgent.3) You can smell burning or hear buzzing at the switchboard
Burnt‑plastic smells, visible scorch marks, or a buzzing/humming sound are red‑flag warnings of heat or arcing. Turn power off at the main switch and call an electrician straight away.4) The TEST button does nothing
Pressing T should trip the safety switch immediately. If the lights stay on, the switch isn’t protecting you. Arrange a prompt replacement.5) It’s old or the board’s never been upgraded
Older homes around Gawler and the Barossa sometimes have only one safety switch—or none on the lighting circuits. Modern practice is RCD protection across all household circuits. If your unit looks decades old or you’re unsure what’s protected, ask for an assessment.Don't wait till it fails!
A quick word on insurance & compliance
Insurers expect a safe, well‑maintained electrical installation. If an incident occurs and your safety switch is missing, faulty, or knowingly ignored, it may complicate claims and liability. Keeping your RCDs tested and up to standard is a simple way to protect your family—and your policy.When should I call Metrolec?
- The TEST button doesn’t trip the switch.
- The switch won’t reset or keeps tripping with nothing plugged in.
- You smell burning, see scorch marks, or hear buzzing at the board.
- Your switchboard is old, you’ve only got one RCD, or you’re just not sure.