07/02/2026
🚨 Emergency Call Out Fault Finding 🚨
Was called out a couple of nights ago after the client lost half of her power circuit.
Initial checks suggested a faulty RCBO, which was replaced, however the fault remained. Further fault finding and insulation resistance testing led us to a circuit with very low IR readings.
Tracing the cable run uncovered non-compliant previous work, including neutrals incorrectly used as switch wires and poor terminations at a 1-gang switch.
The circuit supplied the front gate (GPO and lights). We discovered a 2.5 mm² supply underground-joined and teed into two 1.5 mm² cables and another 2.5 mm² cable, with no downstream protection and no mixed-circuit identification at the switchboard. The most likely cause is an underground junction not suitably sealed, allowing water ingress and causing nuisance tripping.
🔍 During inspection of the switchboard, we also identified insulation breakdown on the consumer mains active conductor, with the installation containing old cotton-insulated cabling, which presents an increased risk of faults and failure.
(Client has been advised)
⚠️ AS/NZS 3000 non-compliances identified:
• Mixed conductor sizes without protection (Clause 2.5.3.3)
• No circuit identification at the switchboard (Clause 2.10.5.2)
• Underground joints not protected against moisture (Clause 3.7.2.10)
⚡ This is why licensed electricians matter. Shortcuts don’t stay hidden forever.
Hume Electrical Group ⚡️
REC: 37805 ✅
