A kitchen renovation is where hidden electrical problems tend to show up. New appliances draw more power than the ones they replace, and older Brisbane homes often have switchboards and wiring that were never designed for an induction cooktop, a dishwasher and a heavy-duty oven running at once. Getting the electrical plan right before cabinets and splashbacks go in saves rework and cost.
Planning a new air conditioner? Split systems supplied and installed from $1,500 inc GST by our licensed electrical and refrigeration team. Get a fixed-price quote or call 0400 775 002.
Two stages of electrical work
Kitchen electrical work is done in two visits. The rough-in happens when walls are open or the old kitchen is stripped: cabling, circuit runs and box positions are set. The fit-off comes after cabinets, benchtops and tiling: power points, switches, lights, appliance connections and testing. Booking your electrician before the cabinet maker finalises drawings means outlets land where you actually need them, not behind a fridge or under a window.
Check your switchboard capacity first
Many homes built before the 1990s still have ceramic fuses or a small board with limited spare capacity. Adding an induction cooktop, a new oven and an island with extra power often means a switchboard upgrade, and in some cases a move from single to three-phase power. It is far cheaper to settle this during the renovation than to open walls again later.
Dedicated circuits you will likely need
- Cooktop: induction cooktops usually need their own circuit sized to the model. See our guide to induction cooktop electrical requirements
- Oven: wall ovens commonly sit on a dedicated circuit, depending on rating
- Dishwasher: its own power point on an appropriately protected circuit
- Rangehood: a power point and, where ducted outside, a proper exhaust path. Read about rangehood ventilation
- Fridge and microwave: often separate circuits so one fault does not take out the lot
Power points: plan for how you actually use the kitchen
AS/NZS 3000 sets minimum requirements, but the minimum is rarely enough. Think about benchtop appliances, charging spots, island outlets and a point inside the pantry for a coffee machine or charging station. Pop-up and in-bench power outlets are popular on islands, but they need to be planned before the benchtop is cut.
Lighting
Good kitchens layer lighting: ceiling downlights for general light, LED strips under overhead cabinets for the bench, and pendants over an island. Check the ceiling space before choosing downlights, as insulation clearance matters for safety. Our guide to downlights and insulation explains why. Dimmable circuits and smart switches are easier to wire now than later.
Safety switches and smoke alarms
Queensland requires safety switches (RCDs) on all power and lighting circuits in new work, and a renovation is the ideal time to bring the whole board up to standard. See do I need a safety switch in Queensland for the rules. Smoke alarm requirements also apply when you renovate, so confirm yours are compliant under Queensland smoke alarm laws.
What does the electrical side cost?
Costs vary with the age of the home and the scope. As a rough guide, extra power points and lighting changes on an otherwise sound system might start from a few hundred dollars per item, while a dedicated cooktop circuit or switchboard upgrade is a larger line item that depends on the existing board and cable runs. A written quote after a site visit is the only reliable number.
Tips for a smooth job
- Get appliance model numbers early, as electrical requirements differ between models
- Give your electrician the final cabinet drawings before rough-in
- Ask for an electrical safety certificate on completion
- Use a licensed electrician only. Unlicensed electrical work is illegal in Queensland and can void insurance
Planning a kitchen renovation?
Integrated Trade Services is a licensed Brisbane electrical contractor handling renovation rough-in, fit-off, switchboard upgrades and appliance circuits. See our electrical services, then contact us for a free quote or call 0400 775 002.
Planning a new or replacement system? See our air conditioning installation page for typical prices, or our full range of air conditioning services.