Every electrical system is controlled by either fuses or circuit breakers. Circuit breakers are usually located in the main switchboard—which is common in modern homes. If you haven’t upgraded your electrical system in the past two decades, chances are, it still has fuses. Before anything else, let’s review what breakers and fuses are and why breakers keep tripping in meter boxes. Fuses Fuses were invented many decades ago and were widely used to protect homes and other buildings from electrical problems. An essential component of this device is a metal strip that melts when excessive current flows through it—then the circuit goes dead. “Fuses are sacrificial devices: once they’re blown, you have to replace them. While changing a fuse is considered a DIY task, it’s advised to call an electrician…

Gas and electric providers in Australia follow strict protocols when entering a property to read the meter. In some cases, the meter reader cannot access the meter box or get into the property, resulting in an estimated gas/electricity consumption. “Proper placement of a gas or electric meter box isn’t only for convenience. It’s also critical for the safety of the building’s inhabitants. The requirements may slightly vary between gas and electric providers, but there are general rules to be followed.”, says Shane Perry, investment manager at Max Funding. For the safety and convenience of both parties, take into account the following factors when installing a meter box: The meter must be accessible without the need to get through a neighbour’s property. It should be installed a maximum of 1000 mm…