Re-wiring fuses

If you live in an older home your switchboard may still have semi-enclosed rewireable fuses.

These fuses are ceramic plug-in units on the switchboard. They have a length of fuse wire connected between two screws on the contacts of a fuse holder and operate in an overload or short-circuit current.

From time to time these fuses can blow and the following steps must be used to safely replace the wire:

1. Switch the power off from the appliance being used and unplug it.
2. Turn off the main switch and any other control switches (such as hot water).
3. Use the correct rated fuse wire for the size of the cable in the circuit it protects.
   • The fuse rating is generally stamped on the outside of each fuse holder or marked on the switchboard near the fuse base.
   • Never use an oversize fuse wire as it can cause damage to the electrical installation wiring or start a fire.
4. Put the correctly rewired fuse into its holder and turn on the main power switch.
5. If the fuse blows again with the electrical equipment unplugged the fault may be in another electrical appliance or a fault in the wiring. You should then call a licensed electrician.

Ensure any damaged or faulty electrical appliance is checked and repaired only by a licensed electrician or authorised repairer.

If you don’t have a safety switch, contact your electrician to have one installed because they can save your life and property.

Remember only safety switches save lives. Circuit breakers and surge protectors protect appliances not people.