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So, you're renovating? Nice one! There’s nothing like giving your home a facelift. But let’s be real – the excitement of picking out paint colours and fancy tiles can often overshadow the less glamorous (but super important) stuff, like electrical work. Lucky for you, I’ve got the inside scoop from Hyundai Electrical’s very own Matt Hunn – who, fun fact, also happens to be Ryan Gosling’s stunt double. (Well, in my mind, at least.)

Let’s flick the switch on the five best electrical tips for your home reno.

1. Call in the Experts – Your Electrician is Your Best Mate

Before you start dreaming about futuristic light fixtures and power points that charge your phone wirelessly, get an expert in. You might have an idea of what you want and a budget in mind, but an electrician will tell you what’s actually possible.

Best ways to communicate your vision? Photos, Pinterest boards, sketches – even walking through a fancy $2 million open home on the Gold Coast for inspo. (I won’t judge, I do it too.)

Pro Tip: Plan early! Electrical work is not something you want to wing last minute.

2. Light it Up – But Make it Modern

Lighting makes or breaks a space. It’s the difference between ‘stunning’ and ‘stuck in the 90s’. The easiest way to modernise a room? Switch out those old halogen bulbs for LEDs. They’re safer, last longer, and will save you some dollars on energy bills.

Also, let’s talk about light switches – they might seem minor, but upgrading to sleek, modern switches makes a massive difference.

Pro Tip: Need lighting inspo? Head to Beacon Lighting – they’ve got it all in one place.

3. Future-Proof Your Home – More Power, More Convenience

Think ahead. How many power points do you actually need? Now add a few more. Trust me, future you will thank you when you’re not battling over the only charging spot in the lounge room.

Consider USB power points in key spots like the kitchen and bedrooms. Also, think about smart home features – motion sensor lighting, smart dimmers, and automated blinds. They’re not just fancy; they’re actually super practical.

Pro Tip: If you’re already opening up walls, run extra conduit – it’s much easier now than later.

4. Safety First – Old Wiring? Time to Upgrade

Renovating an older home? Don’t just slap new lights onto old wiring. If your house is still rocking decades-old electrical systems, it’s time for an upgrade. Old wiring isn’t just inefficient – it’s a fire hazard.

Your electrician will let you know if a full rewire is needed. And while it might sound like a big job, it’s better (and safer) to do it during a reno rather than waiting for something to go wrong.

Pro Tip: Check your switchboard too. If it’s outdated, upgrading to modern safety switches is a must.

5. Choose Quality Products – Because Nobody Likes a Dodgy Switch

It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option when it comes to electrical fittings, but don’t do it. Cheap switches and power points might save you a few bucks upfront, but they won’t last. (And if they fail, it’s going to cost way more in the long run.)

Your electrician can recommend quality brands that come with solid warranties. That way, you get reliability without blowing the budget.

Pro Tip: Ask your electrician what brands they personally use – chances are they’ll recommend the good stuff.

Final Thoughts

A home renovation isn’t just about making things look pretty – it’s about upgrading the essentials too. Getting your electrical work sorted properly means your home is not just stylish but also safe, functional, and future-proofed.

So, consult an expert, modernise your lighting, think ahead with power points, upgrade old wiring, and invest in quality fittings. Easy, right? (Well, easier when you’ve got the right electrician on board.)

Now, go forth and renovate like a pro – and maybe I’ll see you at that next open home, pretending I belong in a $3 million mansion.