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If the safety switch won't turn back on:
• Unplug everything (don't just switch everything off, actually unplug it)
• Turn the main switch off
• Turn the safety switch on.
• If the safety switch still trips, you need a new safety switch.
• Turn the circuit breakers back on and note which circuit breaker causes the safety switch to trip.
If the safety switch trips with everything unplugged, it's likely faulty wiring or you've forgotten to unplug something.
Common items that cause the safety switch to trip include water pumps, fridge defrost elements, and kitchen cooking appliances (including the rangehood).
Preventative maintenance:
I recommend a switchboard upgrade where the circuit protection devices these days consist of a press button on each circuit, not just the one. If a fault occurs, the problem is isolated to only a section of the house, not the whole house. I usually get call outs for no power on houses with old switchboards that have fuses or one safety switch. I also include a surge arrestor.
The fridge isn't working properly:
Never set the fridge / freezer to its coldest setting. This is a symptom of failure, which may be repaired.
• Try cleaning the dust and animal hair out of the back of it first.
• If the freezer is working properly but the fridge isn't, it is likely to be easily repairable.
• If the freezer is struggling to keep food cool, drop me a line.
Preventative maintenance:
If your fridge / freezer is in good working order, I offer preventative maintenance servicing.
Need a new fridge / freezer?
I compiled a spreadsheet which works out which rates value for money based on warranty, price, and storage capacity. For a donation, I can help you out. These spreadsheets need periodic updating and this takes much work.
Generally speaking, I've found Whirlpool and Hisense seem to be the best value for money. Mitsubishi Electric aren't as good value from money but ours is still going 2 years past its 5 year warranty period.
Air Conditioners:
• I advise having more than one air conditioner in the house in case one suddenly stops working.
• Got ducted? I recommend having a split in the main bedroom (in case that's all you need at night).
• Clean the air filter in the indoor unit periodically (depending on how much you use the air conditioner).
• Clean the dirt and animal hair from the coil at the back of the outdoor unit.
• If the indoor unit is spitting water, try unblocking the drain hose / pipe on the outside using a wet & dry vacuum cleaner.
• If the air conditioner isn't working properly and it's only been installed within the last two years, it is possible the gas pipes have worked loosed and it has lost its gas. Contact the installer to claim warranty.
Which electricity provider is the cheapest:
Long story short: Power prices are rising across the board. Get a battery to cover you for at least between 4pm and 9pm.
What may be the cheapest electricity provider for one won't necessarily be the cheapest for another.
I'm with a provider called "Amber" - great if you have battery storage or don't use power between 4pm and 9pm. This isn't suitable for everyone though.
After compiling a spreadsheet which calculates based on usage scenarios you enter, there's no one size fits all.
For a donation, I can help you out. These spreadsheets need periodic updating and this takes much work.
This service is available to anyone anywhere in Australia as all the work is done remotely based on the information you provide me and other related available information.
There is also a free service available: www.energymadeeasy.gov.au