Electrical installation service

Switchboard Wiring Guide

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Switchboard (distribution board)
• Circuit breakers
• Wiring (usually insulated copper wire)
• Switches and outlets
• Wire cutters and strippers
• Screwdriver
• Electrical tape
• Voltage tester
• Multimeter for testing

Steps to Wire a Switchboard:

1. Power off the Main Supply:

• Ensure the main electrical supply is switched off before starting any wiring work.

2. Install the Switchboard:

• Securely mount the switchboard on a wall.
• Ensure the location is accessible and dry.

3. Plan the Circuit Layout:

• Determine the number of circuits needed, such as:
  • Lighting circuit
  • Power circuit for appliances
  • High-power equipment circuits (AC, water heater)
• Calculate the load for each circuit to select the right size circuit breakers.

4. Wire the Main Supply to the Board:

• Run a cable from the incoming power supply to the switchboard, consisting of:
  • Live (L) wire (red or brown)
  • Neutral (N) wire (blue)
  • Earth (E) wire (green or yellow)
• Connect these wires to the main input terminals in the switchboard.

5. Connect Circuit Breakers:

• Install individual circuit breakers into the switchboard for each circuit.
• Connect the live (L) wire of each circuit to the output terminal of each breaker.
• Connect the neutral (N) wire to the neutral bar inside the switchboard.
• Connect the earth (E) wire to the earth bar inside the switchboard.

6. Wiring Outlets and Switches:

• For outlets: Connect live, neutral, and earth wires to the corresponding terminals.
• For switches: Connect one side to the live wire and the other to the controlled device.

7. Wire the Lighting Circuit:

• Wire the lighting circuit with live, neutral, and earth wires.
• Ensure the switch controls the live wire to the light.

8. Connect the Earth Bar:

• All earth wires must be connected to the earth bar for safety.

9. Check for Short Circuits:

• Use a multimeter to check for potential short circuits before turning the power on.

10. Power On and Test:

• After checking, turn the main power back on.
• Test each circuit using a tester to ensure proper functionality.

11. Labeling:

• Label each circuit breaker according to its purpose (e.g., “Living Room,” “Kitchen,” “Lights”).

Important Safety Tips:

• Always ensure the main power is off before working.
• Use insulated tools to prevent electric shocks.
• Use proper wire gauges to prevent overheating.
• Double-check all connections before powering on.
• If unsure, seek professional help.