Switchboard Thermal Imaging Cost

Last updated 24th July 2023

Key Takeaways

• First main switchboard, not including attached cubicles $550 (inc GST)
• Additional switchboards ranging from $133 – $333 (inc GST)
• Only use licenced electricians who are trained and certified to conduct electrical switchboard thermal imaging (AS ISO 18436.7:2014)
• Inspection recommended once annually or as required for insurance purposes.

Conditions apply, please contact us for full quotation.

Thermal Imaging: A Vital and Cost-Efficient Measure in Facility Management

As experts in property and facility management, you may be well-versed with the term “thermal imaging”. But a comprehensive understanding of what these scans mean for the overall safety and efficiency of your properties is where the real value lies. An important aspect to consider here is the investment involved – or in other words, the “cost of switchboard thermal imaging”.

At Switchboard Thermal Imaging, we specialise in offering this essential service, which is like equipping your property with an x-ray vision for its electrical health. Our experienced team of electricians employ both qualitative and quantitative thermography, enabling us to pinpoint potential areas of concern within your electrical switchboards. This proactive measure not only enhances the safety of your property, but also provides you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your building’s electrical condition is well-monitored and maintained.

Our approach allows us to make the invisible, visible. We catch problems, whether related to unusually high or low temperatures, before they escalate into severe issues. We firmly believe in the mantra – seeing truly is believing.

Thermal Imaging: A Non-Negotiable Component of Preventive Maintenance

Thermal imaging isn’t just a handy tool, but a mandatory part of your building’s preventive maintenance. Certain issues, if not detected early, can cause excessive heat and stress on the switchboard, leading to full or partial power outages that disrupt the normal functioning of your property:

• Loose terminals
• Undersized cables
• Faulty fuses or circuit breakers
• Incorrectly fitted components

Switchboard Thermal Imaging Cost

When it comes to safeguarding the electrical health of your building, understanding the “investment in switchboard thermal imaging” becomes vital. This investment, however, is not a one-size-fits-all figure; it varies depending on several parameters.

A standard scenario is a multi-storey building, say a 15-story structure, with 16 switchboards (one public board per level and one main switchboard). For such a setup, the switchboard thermal imaging cost generally oscillates between $1,800 and $5,500.

However, the cost can change based on the complexity of the system, the total number of switchboards, and the geographical location of the property. For instance, larger or architecturally complex buildings like skyscrapers or properties with intricate electrical systems may witness a higher cost due to the added time and expertise necessary for comprehensive thermal imaging.

Similarly, if the property is located in an area where service rates are typically higher, or if the service professionals need to cover a significant distance, this could influence the overall cost.

Now, for properties with numerous switchboards, there’s good news. Switchboard Thermal Imaging offers potential discounts for bulk switchboard thermal imaging jobs. This discount is a gesture of appreciation for clients entrusting us with the maintenance of multiple switchboards, which could make the cost of larger jobs more economical compared to individual switchboard services.

Frequency of thermal imaging tests also plays a role in determining the cost. While we typically recommend annual tests, buildings in areas with extreme environmental conditions or those housing power-intensive operations may require more frequent testing, influencing the overall cost.

Lastly, additional costs may arise if the thermal imaging test uncovers issues demanding immediate attention. Necessary repairs or upgrades to the switchboard to uphold the safety and functionality of your building’s electrical system may add to the final price.

While there’s a general range for switchboard thermal imaging cost, the exact figure will depend on your building’s unique characteristics and requirements. Nevertheless, this investment is fundamental in maintaining your property’s electrical health, mitigating expensive repairs down the line, and ensuring tenant safety.

How Often Should You Conduct Thermal Imaging Tests?

We recommend conducting thermal imaging tests for all your building’s switchboards annually. However, if environmental conditions are a significant factor, these tests may need to be carried out more frequently. Note that many insurance companies are now making thermal imaging a condition of policy renewal.

Will Thermal Imaging Tests Disrupt Power Supply?

Concerned about disruptions to your building’s power supply during a thermal imaging test? Rest assured. Thermal imaging is a non-destructive testing technique, meaning your power supply stays uninterrupted during a preventive maintenance check. Switchboard thermal imaging is carried out while the equipment is operational, allowing for early fault detection, often signaled by a temperature rise.

Decoding a Thermal Imaging Report

Wondering how to read a thermal imaging report? To identify potential hazards, it’s essential to compare the switchboard’s temperature with the ambient room temperature. If a switchboard is overheating or under too much stress, there’s a risk of internal elements igniting, which can have catastrophic consequences. The colour indications in the report are simple: darker colours represent cooler areas, while lighter colours suggest warmer, stress-prone regions.

Schedule your building’s switchboard thermal imaging with Switchboard Thermal Imaging today. Reach us at 0422 877 257. Trust in Switchboard Thermal Imaging, your go-to solution for all switchboard repairs, upgrades, and thermal imaging tests.