Electrical issues are a common occurrence in homes and businesses, but when it comes to resolving certain problems, hiring the right professional is crucial. While general electricians can handle many routine repairs, Level 2 electricians are specialists who are qualified to manage more complex and hazardous electrical tasks. In this blog, we’ll explore when you should call a Level 2 electrician and highlight common electrical issues that require their expert assistance.
What Is A Level 2 Electrician?
Before diving into when to call a Level 2 electrician, it’s important to understand what makes them different from regular electricians. A Level 2 electrician in Australia is a licensed and qualified professional who can handle high-voltage electrical work and tasks that go beyond the scope of a typical electrician. This includes tasks like installing and maintaining electrical meters, dealing with live wires, and ensuring the safe connection of power systems to the electrical grid.
Unlike general electricians, Level 2 electricians are authorized to carry out the following tasks:
- Disconnecting and reconnecting the electrical supply to your home or business
- Installing electrical meters and ensuring their proper function
- Handling high-voltage connections such as overhead and underground services
- Dealing with power line issues, including fault finding and repair
If you’re experiencing electrical problems that fall into these categories, a Level 2 electrician should be your go-to expert.
Common Electrical Issues That Require a Level 2 Electrician
Power Supply Issues
- What It Is: If your home or business experiences intermittent power loss, or if you have difficulty turning on lights and appliances due to power supply problems, it may be due to a faulty connection or a problem with the electrical meter.
- Why a Level 2 Electrician Is Needed: Power supply issues often require a licensed professional to inspect, disconnect, and reconnect the system. Only a Level 2 electrician can legally work on main power lines and ensure that your electrical meter is functioning correctly.
- Example: A situation where your house experiences frequent outages due to an issue with the connection to the main electrical grid would require a Level 2 electrician to restore the power supply.
Faulty Or Outdated Electrical Meters
- What It Is: Your electrical meter is responsible for tracking energy consumption, and if it malfunctions, it could lead to incorrect billing or inability to track your usage.
- Why a Level 2 Electrician Is Needed: A Level 2 electrician is authorized to replace, repair, and install electrical meters. Without this certification, you may not be able to legally update or repair your electrical meter.
- Example: If you have an old or broken meter that needs replacement, calling a Level 2 electrician is essential for a safe and legal installation.
Electrical Panel Upgrades Or Faults
- What It Is: Over time, electrical panels can become outdated, overloaded, or faulty. An outdated panel may not be able to handle the demands of modern appliances, leading to circuit overloads and safety hazards.
- Why a Level 2 Electrician Is Needed: A Level 2 electrician has the training and expertise to upgrade your electrical panel, which may involve more complex work, such as disconnecting and reconnecting the power supply safely.
- Example: If your panel frequently trips breakers or is no longer compatible with your home’s electrical load, you will need a Level 2 electrician to replace or upgrade the panel.
Issues With Overhead Or Underground Power Lines
- What It Is: If you experience problems with the electrical power lines that connect your property to the grid, you may face damaged wires, fallen lines, or faulty connections.
- Why a Level 2 Electrician Is Needed: Working with high-voltage power lines, whether overhead or underground, requires the expertise of a Level 2 electrician. These professionals are trained to work safely with live power lines, ensuring your safety and the integrity of your electrical system.
- Example: If a storm causes power lines to fall on your property or if the underground connection to your home becomes faulty, a Level 2 electrician is required to safely repair or replace these connections.
Electrical Disconnections And Reconnections
- What It Is: Sometimes, electrical disconnections are necessary for maintenance, upgrades, or in emergencies. This may include disconnecting power to your property temporarily or reconnecting power after service work is completed.
- Why a Level 2 Electrician Is Needed: Only Level 2 electricians are authorized to disconnect or reconnect power safely. They follow strict safety protocols to ensure that the process is performed without risk of injury or damage.
- Example: If you’re having a renovation or construction work that requires the electrical power to be temporarily turned off or relocated, a Level 2 electrician will handle the disconnection and reconnection of your power supply.
Electrical Safety Inspections
- What It Is: Electrical inspections are crucial for ensuring that your electrical systems are up to code and functioning safely. Outdated wiring, faulty circuits, or improper installations can create significant fire hazards.
- Why a Level 2 Electrician Is Needed: A Level 2 electrician is authorized to conduct thorough electrical safety inspections, especially when dealing with high-voltage systems or connections to the grid.
- Example: If you’re unsure whether your electrical systems are safe, or if you’ve noticed flickering lights, sparks, or burning smells from outlets, it’s time to call a Level 2 electrician to perform a safety inspection.
When Not To Call A Level 2 Electrician
While Level 2 electricians are qualified to handle complex electrical work, not all issues require their expertise. For basic repairs such as fixing faulty outlets, light switches, or replacing blown fuses, a general electrician will be sufficient. Level 2 electricians are best suited for high-voltage work and installations that require official authorization.
How To Find A Qualified Level 2 Electrician In Melbourne
When hiring a Level 2 electrician, ensure that the individual is licensed and insured. Here’s how to find the right professional:
- Check Qualifications: Verify that the electrician holds a Level 2 license issued by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).
- Get Multiple Quotes: It’s wise to get quotes from at least three electricians to ensure competitive pricing and clear communication about the job scope.
- Read Reviews: Look for online reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of service and reliability.
Conclusion:
For any electrical issue that involves high voltage, complex connections, or safety risks, hiring a licensed Level 2 electrician is the best course of action. Whether you’re facing power supply issues, needing a meter upgrade, or dealing with dangerous power line faults, a Level 2 electrician in Melbourne is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and qualifications to get the job done safely and efficiently.
