Modern offices rely heavily on electrical systems to power computers, lighting, data networks, and essential equipment. However, many Perth businesses unknowingly operate with outdated or poorly maintained electrical infrastructure — putting safety, productivity, and compliance at risk.
At Symbient Electrical, we regularly inspect and upgrade office electrical systems across Western Australia. Below are the most common electrical issues found in Perth offices, along with practical, compliant solutions to fix them.
1. Overloaded Power Circuits
One of the most frequent problems in offices is overloaded circuits. As businesses grow, more computers, monitors, printers, and devices are added — often without upgrading the electrical system.
🔴 Common signs:
- Tripping circuit breakers
- Flickering lights
- Overheating power points
- Buzzing from switchboards
✅ How to fix it:
A licensed electrician can redistribute loads, add new circuits, or upgrade your switchboard. Proper power & data installation ensures each workstation has safe and adequate power without relying on unsafe power boards.
2. Insufficient Power Points and Poor Layout
Many older Perth offices simply weren’t designed for modern technology demands. A lack of power points leads to excessive extension leads — a major safety hazard.
🔴 Risks include:
- Fire hazards
- Trip hazards
- Equipment damage
- Non-compliance with WHS standards
✅ How to fix it:
Professional office fitout electrical planning allows power points to be placed exactly where they’re needed, improving safety, efficiency, and workspace appearance.
3. Outdated or Faulty Lighting Systems
Poor lighting affects productivity, employee comfort, and energy efficiency. Many offices still rely on outdated fluorescent lighting that consumes excessive power and provides uneven illumination.
🔴 Common issues:
- Eye strain and headaches
- Dark work zones
- High electricity bills
- Frequent maintenance
✅ How to fix it:
Upgrade to energy-efficient LED lighting with smart controls. A modern lighting design improves visibility, reduces costs, and enhances your office environment.
4. Unsafe or Non-Compliant Electrical Installations
Non-compliant electrical work is often discovered during renovations, audits, or safety inspections. This includes improper wiring, missing RCDs, and unlabelled circuits.
🔴 Why this is serious:
- Legal penalties under WA regulations
- Increased risk of electric shock or fire
- Insurance claim rejection
✅ How to fix it:
Schedule professional electrical compliance testing to identify risks and ensure all installations meet AS/NZS 3000 and AS/NZS 3760 standards.
5. Poor Data Cabling and Network Dropouts
Slow internet, dropped connections, and unreliable Wi-Fi are often caused by poor-quality data cabling, not your internet provider.
🔴 Common causes:
- Old Cat5 cabling
- Poor termination
- Cable interference
- Overloaded network points
✅ How to fix it:
Upgrade to structured cabling or fibre optic networking for faster, more reliable data performance — especially important for cloud-based offices and hybrid work environments.
6. Faulty RCDs and Safety Switches
Residual Current Devices (RCDs) are essential for protecting staff from electric shock. In many Perth offices, RCDs are either faulty, outdated, or missing entirely.
🔴 Warning signs:
- RCDs failing to trip during tests
- Old switchboards without safety switches
- Frequent electrical faults
✅ How to fix it:
Licensed electricians can test, replace, or upgrade RCDs to ensure compliance and workplace safety through routine compliance testing services.
7. Lack of Preventative Electrical Maintenance
Many businesses only call an electrician when something goes wrong. This reactive approach often leads to higher repair costs and unexpected downtime.
🔴 Consequences:
- Sudden power failures
- Equipment damage
- Increased safety risks
- Disrupted operations
✅ How to fix it:
Implement scheduled electrical inspections and preventative maintenance with commercial electrical services to catch issues early and keep systems running smoothly.
8. Electrical Issues During Office Renovations
Office renovations without proper electrical planning often result in exposed wiring, insufficient outlets, or overloaded systems.
🔴 Common mistakes:
- Ignoring future power needs
- Poor coordination with builders
- Non-compliant installations
✅ How to fix it:
Work with experienced Perth electricians who specialise in office fitouts, power & data, and compliance testing to ensure seamless integration during renovations.
Why Perth Offices Trust Symbient Electrical
At Symbient Electrical, we understand the electrical demands of modern workplaces. Our licensed team provides tailored solutions for:
- Office fitouts and upgrades
- Power & data installations
- Fibre optic networking
- Electrical compliance testing
- Ongoing maintenance and safety inspections
We deliver safe, efficient, and fully compliant electrical systems for businesses across Perth and Western Australia.
Fix Office Electrical Issues Before They Become Costly
Ignoring electrical problems can lead to safety risks, downtime, and compliance issues. Whether you’re upgrading an office, improving safety, or planning future growth, professional electrical support is essential.
👉 Speak with Perth’s trusted electricians today:
https://symbient.com.au/
