Frequently asked questions about electrical services, safety, and costs for Singapore homes.
10 Questions Answered
How much does an electrician cost in Singapore?
Basic electrical work starts from $50-80 for simple fixes. Power point installation costs $80-150 per point, ceiling fan installation $80-150, and lighting installation $50-120. EMA-licensed electricians are required for all electrical work.
Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping?
Common causes include overloaded circuits, faulty appliances, short circuits, or moisture issues. If it trips frequently, stop using that circuit and call an electrician ($80-150 for diagnosis). Continuing to use it risks electrical fire.
Can I do my own electrical work in Singapore?
Minor work like changing light bulbs is fine, but installing power points, switches, or wiring requires an EMA-licensed electrician. DIY electrical work is illegal, dangerous, and will void your home insurance.
What's the difference between MCB, RCCB, and RCBO?
MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) protects against overloading. RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker) protects against electric shock. RCBO combines both functions. Modern homes should have RCCB protection. Upgrading costs $150-300.
How do I know if my wiring needs replacement?
Warning signs include: frequent circuit tripping, burning smells, discolored outlets, flickering lights, or homes over 25-30 years old with original wiring. Full rewiring costs $3,000-8,000+ depending on home size.
Why are my electricity bills suddenly higher?
Check for faulty appliances (especially old fridges/aircons), phantom loads from standby devices, or damaged wiring causing power loss. An electrician can conduct an energy audit to identify issues ($100-200).
Is it safe to use an extension cord long-term?
Extension cords are for temporary use only. Long-term use with high-load appliances (aircon, heaters, washing machines) is a fire hazard. Install permanent power points instead ($80-150 per point).
How much does it cost to add power points?
Adding a single power point costs $80-150 depending on wiring complexity. Multiple points in the same room are cheaper per point. Surface wiring (with trunking) is less expensive than concealed wiring.
What should I do if I smell burning from an outlet?
Immediately switch off the main power at the DB box, unplug appliances from that outlet, and call an electrician. Do not use that outlet until it's inspected. This indicates a serious fire hazard.
Do I need to upgrade my DB box?
Older homes with fuse boxes should upgrade to modern MCB/RCCB panels for better safety ($500-1500). Also consider upgrading if you're adding major appliances, renovating, or experiencing frequent trips.
Electrical Safety in Singapore
All electrical work must be carried out by EMA-licensed electricians. This is not just a recommendation - it's the law.