Melbourne · In our service area
Electrician & air conditioning in West Melbourne3003 · Electrical, heating and cooling
Electrical repairs, safer power and year-round comfort for homes and properties in West Melbourne. Talk to one team about the fault you need fixed or the upgrade you are planning.
REC 38187Scope explained before work
The local picture
Work that fits your property
West Melbourne sits on the edge of the city, between North Melbourne, Docklands and the port and rail land to the west. Its streets mix Victorian single and double-storey terraces with converted warehouses and low-rise apartment buildings. Each brings a different first question. In a terrace, it's whether the old wiring can take a new kitchen or air conditioning. In a warehouse conversion or apartment, it's building access and where the owners corporation will let an outdoor unit sit. Our electricians look at the board, the cable routes and the approvals before quoting, so the scope is clear from the start.
Every installation is different. We start with the symptoms, existing equipment and access, then explain the work needed and the options available.
- Local council
- Melbourne City Council
- Property settings
- Victorian terraces, Warehouse conversions, Apartments
- Booking
- Published service area. Contact us for available appointments.
- Hours
- Mon–Sat, 7am–5:30pm
Homes in West Melbourne
Victorian terraces
Terraces from the Victorian era have usually been rewired in parts, often when a kitchen or bathroom was redone, so modern cable in the back rooms can sit alongside much older wiring at the front. Shared walls, narrow frontages and low roofs over rear additions limit where new cable and air conditioning pipework can run. If the original board with ceramic fuses is still there, leave it closed: WorkSafe Victoria lists ceramic fuses in switchboards among its examples of asbestos-containing materials, so it is assessed before anyone works on it.
Warehouse conversions
Since around 2000, many of West Melbourne's older warehouses have been converted to apartments. High ceilings, exposed brick and concrete slabs look good but leave few hidden routes for cable, so new lighting and power often run in surface conduit or along a bulkhead. Big open rooms with tall windows can be hard to heat and cool evenly, which is where zoning, a multi-head system or a ducted unit in a bulkhead earns its place.
Low-rise apartment buildings
In most apartments your circuit breakers and safety switches sit on a small board inside the unit, while the meters and main switchboard are in a common area the building controls. Outdoor units go on a balcony or a shared plant area, and the owners corporation usually decides where. Before the day we ask about lift bookings, loading access and parking. Replacing a unit in its current position is usually much simpler than moving it.
Heating and cooling in West Melbourne
Terraces lose warmth through timber floors, high ceilings and single-glazed windows, and many still rely on a gas space heater in the front room. A split system in the living area is the usual starting point, and where there's room for only one outdoor unit, a multi-head system can serve several rooms from it. Apartments with large north or west-facing glass tend to overheat on a hot northerly. Reverse-cycle units move three to five units of heat for each unit of electricity, so they suit both seasons.
Common jobs in West Melbourne
Explore the work, what a visit involves and the questions to ask before booking.
Old Wiring Replacement
Rubber, fabric and early TPS cabling found and replaced.
Split System Air Conditioning
Split systems installed, repaired or replaced, circuit included.
Rental Electrical Safety Check
The two-yearly Victorian rental check, with a report.
Multi-Head Split Systems
One outdoor unit running several indoor heads.
LED Downlight Installation
New downlight layouts and replacement of tired halogen fittings.
Interconnected Smoke Alarms
Alarms that all sound together, wired or wireless.
Local notes
Rental checks for every lease from 13 October 2026
Consumer Affairs Victoria lists a change taking effect on 13 October 2026: rental providers and their agents must arrange gas and electrical safety checks by a qualified tradesperson every two years for all rental agreements, whenever they started. Since 29 March 2023, Victorian rentals have also needed modern switchboards with circuit breakers and safety switches. For an older terrace or apartment that's let out, the check is a good time to confirm the board meets that standard.
Older terraces and the wiring check
Energy Safe Victoria says that when buying a home built before the 1980s, it is imperative to have the wiring checked by a licensed electrical inspector or registered electrical contractor before moving in. It also lists old switchboards, particularly those without a safety switch, flickering lights and old or broken power points among the warning signs of faulty wiring. In a terrace renovated a few times, a check shows which wiring is original and which is newer.
Worth reading first
- Buying a home: an electrical checklist for open inspectionsWhat buyers can safely check at an open inspection, from the switchboard and safety switches to smoke alarms, power points and sheds, and what to ask the agent.
- Old house wiring in Melbourne: rubber, fabric and early plastic cableHow to recognise the main generations of wiring in pre-1980s homes, how each one ages, and what an electrician's testing can and can't tell you about it.
- Ceramic fuses and old switchboards: what to look forA look-but-don't-touch guide to old switchboards: rewireable fuses, a missing safety switch, suspect backing panels, heat marks and what replacement involves.
From your enquiry to the finished job
Step 1: Tell us about the property
Share your West Melbourne address, what is happening and the work you have in mind. Equipment models and clear photos can help.
Step 2: Confirm access and scope
We discuss availability, the checks required and who can approve the work. Any visit or travel arrangements are explained.
Step 3: Understand the options
The existing installation is assessed and the proposed work and price are explained before you decide.
Step 4: Complete and hand over
Agreed work is completed and checked, the area is tidied, and the relevant operating advice and documentation are provided.
Electrical + heating + cooling
Explore the full service range
All services
Every electrical, heating and cooling service, by category
Repairs & faults
Power off, breakers tripping, sparks or a burning smell. Found and fixed properly.
- Electrical Repairs & Fault FindingFinding out why circuits trip, flicker or go dead, then fixing them.
- Power Outages & Loss of PowerWhole house or half the house out? What to check, and when to call.
- Safety Switch (RCD) Installation & TestingSafety switches fitted, tested and replaced to cover every circuit.
- Burning Smell from Power Points or SwitchboardA hot or burning smell from a fitting, point or switchboard.
- Sparking Power Points & SwitchesSparks, scorch marks or crackling at a point or switch.
- Flickering & Dimming LightsLights that flicker, dim or pulse after a new globe.
- Power Point Not WorkingOne outlet or a run of outlets that has gone dead.
- Circuit Breaker Keeps TrippingA breaker that trips again, or trips with one appliance.
- Power Out in Part of the HouseSome rooms dead while the rest of the home has power.
- Safety Switch (RCD) TestingTrip-time testing of every safety switch, with a record.
- Faulty Safety Switch ReplacementA safety switch that won’t reset, or fails its test.
Upgrades & safety
Switchboards, safety switches, smoke alarms, rewiring and EV chargers.
- Switchboard UpgradesOld fuse boards replaced with modern breakers and safety switches.
- Smoke Alarm InstallationHardwired, interconnected smoke alarms fitted, tested and replaced.
- Surge ProtectionSurge diverters fitted at the switchboard to protect your appliances.
- Home Rewiring & RenovationsRewiring older homes and wiring renovations, extensions and kitchens.
- EV Charger InstallationWall chargers for your electric car, on their own circuit at home.
- Dedicated Appliance CircuitsSuitable supplies for air conditioning, cooking and EV charging.
- Home & Rental Electrical Safety ChecksAn inspection of the installation, with findings explained.
- Fuse Box ReplacementOld ceramic fuses replaced with breakers and safety switches.
- Switchboard Upgrade for Air Conditioning, EV or InductionRoom on the board for a new system, charger or cooktop.
- Hardwired Smoke Alarm InstallationMains-powered alarms with battery backup, fitted properly.
- Interconnected Smoke AlarmsAlarms that all sound together, wired or wireless.
- Smoke Alarms for Rental PropertiesRental smoke alarm checks, replacements and records.
- Rental Electrical Safety CheckThe two-yearly Victorian rental check, with a report.
- Pre-Purchase Electrical InspectionKnow what the wiring and board need before you buy.
- Old Wiring ReplacementRubber, fabric and early TPS cabling found and replaced.
- Renovation & Extension ElectricalKitchens, bathrooms and extensions wired to plan.
- New Home Electrical Fit-OffElectrical for new builds, from rough-in to fit-off.
- Switchboard RepairsFaulty breakers, loose connections and damaged boards repaired.
- Circuit Breaker & RCBO InstallationRCBOs and breakers added or replaced, circuit by circuit.
- Electrical Mains UpgradesLarger consumer mains when the home needs more supply.
- Single Phase to Three Phase UpgradesThree-phase power for large ducted systems, EVs and workshops.
- Meter Panel UpgradesOld meter boards brought up to current standards.
- Smoke Alarm ReplacementExpired, faulty or chirping alarms swapped for new ones.
- Electrical Compliance CertificatesCertificates of Electrical Safety for every job we do.
- Electrical Defect RepairsDefects from an inspection or report fixed and signed off.
- Electrical MaintenancePlanned checks and small repairs that keep a home safe.
- Tesla Charger InstallationTesla Wall Connector installed on its own circuit.
Lighting & power
LEDs, garden lights, security cameras, power points, fans, ovens and cooktops.
- LED Lighting UpgradesOld halogens and fluoros swapped for LED downlights and fittings.
- Outdoor & Garden LightingGarden, path, deck and sensor lighting wired for outdoor conditions.
- Power Point Installation & UpgradesNew, extra and relocated power points, inside and out.
- Ceiling Fan InstallationCeiling fans fitted, braced and wired, with or without a light.
- Oven & Cooktop InstallationElectric ovens, cooktops and induction wired in on the right circuit.
- Security Lights & Floodlight CamerasSensor lighting and powered floodlight cameras for your entry.
- LED Downlight InstallationNew downlight layouts and replacement of tired halogen fittings.
- Pendant & Feature LightingPendants over benches, dining tables and feature spaces.
- Induction Cooktop InstallationCooktop upgrades with the circuit and switchboard checked first.
- LED Strip LightingStrip lighting for kitchens, stairs, shelves and ceilings.
- Dimmers & Smart Lighting SwitchesDimmers, timers and app-controlled switches and scenes.
- Sensor LightsMotion and dusk-to-dawn lights for paths, doors and drives.
- USB Power PointsDouble points with USB-A and USB-C charging built in.
- Outdoor Power PointsWeatherproof outlets for patios, garages and gardens.
- Bathroom Exhaust FansDucted exhaust fans that actually clear the steam.
- Rangehood InstallationRangehoods wired, fitted and ducted with the cooktop.
- LED Oyster Light InstallationSlimline LED ceiling lights for halls, laundries and bedrooms.
- Shed & Garage ElectricalPower and lighting for sheds, garages and workshops.
- Bathroom Heat Lamp & 3-in-1 InstallationHeat, light and exhaust in one bathroom ceiling unit.
- TV, Data & NBN CablingTV points, data cabling and NBN cabling.
- TV Point InstallationNew TV points wired where you want the screen.
- Data & Ethernet CablingWired network points for home offices, TVs and gaming.
- NBN Cabling & RelocationCabling and power so your NBN and router sit where you need them.
- CCTV Security Camera InstallationWired and Wi-Fi security cameras, planned and installed.
- Video Doorbell & Intercom InstallationHardwired video doorbells and intercoms, set up on your phone.
Air conditioning
Split, ducted, multi-head and evaporative systems, supplied and installed.
- Split System Air ConditioningSplit systems installed, repaired or replaced, circuit included.
- Ducted Reverse Cycle Air ConditioningWhole-home heating and cooling, with the electrical done too.
- Multi-Head, Bulkhead & Floor Standing SystemsFor rooms where a standard wall split won't fit or won't do the job.
- Evaporative CoolingEvaporative coolers installed, repaired, replaced and serviced.
- Split System ReplacementReplace an ageing unit and review the sizing, location and supply.
- Ducted Air Conditioning ReplacementReplacing a tired ducted system, reusing ducts where sound.
- Multi-Head Split SystemsOne outdoor unit running several indoor heads.
- Bulkhead Air ConditioningConcealed ducted units built into a bulkhead.
- Floor Standing Air ConditionersFloor consoles for rooms where a wall unit won't suit.
- Evaporative Cooler ReplacementReplacing an old roof-mounted evaporative cooler.
- Evaporative to Refrigerated ConversionSwapping evaporative cooling for reverse-cycle ducted.
- Heating & Cooling for New Homes & RenovationsSystems planned and installed with the build or renovation.
- Ducted Air Conditioning RepairsDucted reverse-cycle systems that won't heat, cool or start.
- Ducted Air Conditioning CleaningFilters, return grilles and outlets cleaned for better airflow.
- AirTouch 5 InstallationAirTouch 5 zone control for ducted systems, set up room by room.
- Smart Air Conditioning ControlsWi-Fi and app control for split and ducted systems.
- Air Conditioning Thermostat ReplacementOld or faulty wall controllers replaced and set up.
- Air Conditioning Duct ReplacementOld, crushed or leaking ducts replaced in the roof space.
- Air Conditioning Vent & Grille ReplacementTired, yellowed or noisy vents and grilles replaced.
- Multi-Head Split System ReplacementReplacing an old multi-head system, outdoor unit and heads.
- Multi-Head Split System ServicingEvery indoor head and the shared outdoor unit serviced.
- Multi-Head Split System RepairsOne head or the whole multi-head system not working right.
- Evaporative Cooler RepairsCoolers that leak, won't pump water or blow warm air.
- Evaporative Cooler Pad ReplacementClogged or smelly cooler pads replaced before summer.
Heating & hot water
Gas ducted heating, heat pumps, hot water, and bathroom and outdoor heaters.
- Gas Ducted HeatingGas ducted heaters installed, repaired, replaced and serviced.
- Heat Pump HeatingReverse cycle heat pump heating, sized, installed and wired.
- Gas Ducted Heater ReplacementReplacing an old gas ducted heater, like for like or better.
- Gas Ducted Heater RepairsHeaters that won't ignite, cut out or blow cold.
- Switching from Gas to Electric HeatingMoving from gas heating to reverse-cycle heat pumps.
- Heat Pump Hot WaterHeat pump hot water systems supplied and installed.
- Heat Pump Hot Water ReplacementSwapping an old or failed hot water unit for a heat pump.
- Heat Pump Hot Water RepairsHeat pump units that run cold, trip or make noise.
- Electric Hot Water ReplacementFailed electric storage units replaced like for like or upgraded.
- Bathroom Heater InstallationWall heaters, towel rails and ceiling heaters for bathrooms.
- Outdoor & Patio Heater InstallationElectric radiant heaters for alfresco, patio and pergola areas.
Service & repairs
Servicing, breakdowns, leaks, zoning and ductwork on any system.
- Heating & Cooling ServicingPreventative servicing for split, ducted, evaporative and gas systems.
- Breakdown Repairs & Fault FindingHeating and cooling faults found, explained and fixed properly.
- Refrigerant Leak Detection & Re-GassingLeaks found and repaired before the system is re-gassed.
- Smart Thermostats & Zone ControlHeat and cool only the rooms you use, and control it from your phone.
- Ductwork Repairs & AirflowDamaged, leaking or poorly laid ducts repaired, replaced or rerouted.
- Split System Cleaning & ServicingFilters, drainage, airflow and operation checked before peak use.
- Split System RepairsWater leaks, error codes, weak cooling and systems that will not start.
- Ducted Air Conditioning ServicingReturn air, outlets, zones and system performance checked together.
- Evaporative Cooler ServicingPads, water supply, pump, drainage and airflow checked.
- Gas Ducted Heater ServicingArrange gas heater maintenance with the correct licensed trade.
- Air Conditioner Not CoolingRunning but blowing warm air, or not keeping up in heat.
- Air Conditioner Leaking WaterWater dripping from the indoor unit or down the wall.
- Heater Not WorkingGas ducted or reverse-cycle heating that won't start or heat.
Sources for the rules and local facts on this page
12 sources, with the date each was checked
- 1.Consumer Affairs Victoria: Mandatory gas and electrical safety checks every 2 years for all rental properties Rental providers and their agents must arrange gas and electrical safety checks by a qualified tradesperson every 2 years for all… Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 2.Consumer Affairs Victoria: The electrical safety rental minimum standard commenced on 29 March 2023. Rental properties must have modern switchboards, with circuit breakers and electrical safety switches installed. Electrical safety switches are… Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 3.Energy Safe Victoria: When buying a home built before the 1980s it is imperative the wiring is checked by a licensed electrical inspector or registered electrical contractor prior to moving in. Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 4.Energy Safe Victoria: Old switchboards, particularly those without a safety switch Old power switches or power points, particularly broken ones Flickering lights Sparks from switchboards, switches or power points. If your house is over 30… Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 5.WorkSafe Victoria: Fuse blankets and ceramic fuses in switchboards Pitch-based (eg Zelemite, Ausbestos, Lebah) electrical switchboards Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 6.Energy Rating (GEMS Regulator / DCCEEW): Reverse cycle air conditioners are much more efficient at heating than standard electric heaters (bar heaters, convection, or radiant heaters). ... During the normal operating range in Australia for every unit of… Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 7.Energy Safe Victoria: If a switchboard is required to be replaced then as per clause 2.6.3.2.5 (Alterations to installations and replacement of switchboards) of AS/NZS 3000: RCD’s are required on all final sub-circuits. Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 8.Energy Safe Victoria: The electrician has eight business days after the work is completed to have that work inspected by a licensed electrical inspector (LEI). If an electrician replaces a main switchboard at a property, power cannot go back… Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 9.Consumer Affairs Victoria: From 1 March 2027, rental providers must install an energy-efficient, fixed cooling system with an outlet in the main living area. This applies at the start of a new rental agreement. All rental properties must have… Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 10.Consumer Affairs Victoria: Tip: A reverse-cycle air conditioner can satisfy both the heating and cooling standards. Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 11.Fire Rescue Victoria: Residential home constructed, largely renovated, or extended after 1 May 2014 Interconnected, hard wired smoke alarms that are connected to 240 volt mains power and have a back-up battery. Accessed 30 September 2026.
- 12.Consumer Affairs Victoria: A hard-wired smoke alarm must be installed by a qualified electrician, but anyone can change a smoke alarm battery. Accessed 30 September 2026.
Your questions
Booking work
in West Melbourne
Local information and practical answers before you arrange a visit.
Start with the owners corporation rules, because the outdoor unit, pipework or cabling may pass through common property. They will usually want to know where the outdoor unit will sit, its size and weight, how it's mounted and the route the pipes and cable will take. We can supply those details for your request. Replacing a unit in its existing position is usually far simpler than moving it, so mention any approved location when you enquire.
It should be looked at. Old fuse boards often have no safety switch, or one that covers only some circuits, and rewireable fuses protect the cable rather than the people using it. When a switchboard is replaced, Energy Safe Victoria's guidance is that the Wiring Rules require safety switches on all final sub-circuits, and a new main switchboard must be inspected by a licensed electrical inspector before the power goes back on. If you rent the property out, the board also has to meet the rental electrical standard.
All rentals need a working fixed heater, not a portable one, in the main living area, and for agreements from 29 March 2023 it must be energy efficient. From 1 March 2027, energy-efficient fixed cooling with an outlet in the main living area must be installed at the start of a new agreement. Consumer Affairs Victoria notes that one reverse-cycle air conditioner can meet both the heating and cooling standards, so a single, well-placed split system often covers both.
It can. Fire Rescue Victoria's summary of the rules says homes built, largely renovated or extended after 1 May 2014 need interconnected, hard-wired smoke alarms connected to 240-volt mains power with a backup battery. Interconnected means that when one alarm sounds, they all do, which helps in a long, narrow terrace with bedrooms at both ends. A hard-wired smoke alarm must be installed by a qualified electrician.
Yes, but the route has to be planned. With no ceiling cavity or hollow walls, cable usually runs in neat surface conduit, along beams or inside a bulkhead built for the purpose, and track or pendant lighting often suits the space better than downlights. Check first whether the slab or any wall is common property, because the owners corporation may need to approve fixings into it. We'll walk the space with you and mark out the options.
West Melbourne is in Total Comfort's published service area. Contact us with the full address and the work required so we can confirm the available appointment options. We are based in Altona Meadows and cover electrical, heating and cooling work across the western suburbs.
Tell us about lift bookings, loading zones and parking when you enquire. Inner-city access arrangements are confirmed before the visit.
Yes. Tell us about all the work you are considering, including new appliances, lighting, a charger or changes to heating and cooling. The quote can take account of the electrical supply, available space and installation sequence. The final scope is explained before work goes ahead.
Include the owner or property manager's contact details and who can authorise the job. Tell us whether access needs to be coordinated with a tenant, an owners corporation or building management. These arrangements are confirmed before a visit.
The price depends on the fault or installation, equipment, access and any changes needed to the existing system. Describe the job and share useful photos or model numbers. We explain the proposed scope and price before work begins; availability and any travel arrangements are confirmed when booking.
Our team works Monday to Saturday, 7am to 5:30pm, and appointments are booked within those hours.
Around West Melbourne
Nearby suburbs
What people say after we've been
5.0Google rating from 21 reviewsCouldn't be happier with Total Comfort Electrical & Air. I had a few quotes for the same job, but found some were extremely overpriced and others were quite pushy without really explaining why the work needed to be done. Aaron was completely different. He took his time, explained the job in detail, gave me more than one option and made sure I actually understood what I was paying for. He was extremely easy to deal with, did a great job and left everything clean and tidy. His price was competitive and the quality of the work was fantastic. It's honestly great to find a reliable tradesman who you can trust. Would definitely recommend Aaron and Total Comfort Electrical & Air!
James WalshGoogle review · Aaron was knowledgeable and gave his time and expertise / which was spot on. Also recommended another tradie who was needed for the job and was also excellent. Would highly recommend.
Louise FoleyGoogle review · 10/10 experience with these guys. Aaron did a fantastic job with the electrical work at my property and even gave me some spare light bulbs. He's a true gentleman and absolutely fantastic with kids. My daughter was so impressed she now wants to be an electrician! 😂 Highly recommend Aaron and the team!
Sven GoldringGoogle review · Aaron was exceptional, I couldn't recommend him highly enough! He recently did some work at our house and was knowledgeable, tidy and genuinely lovely to have around. Our three year old followed him around for practically the entire day, and he was so patient and kind, happily chatting with her while he worked. We're so happy with everything he did and wouldn't hesitate to use him again.
Elli GoldringGoogle review · Fantastic job today. Aaron arrived on time (was accurate in how long it would take), very professional, explaining everything as he went. Gave me extra tips on what to do in the future with my appliances. Best of all, he did a really good job (and really nice bloke). Would highly recommend.
Cath TullyGoogle review · Really experienced electrician who did a good quality job, would definitely use again
Ross WilsonGoogle review · Aaron did a great job of replacing a faultilt installed aircon on a 3 story townhouse. This wasn't a straightforward install given the property & there were suspected old leaks and further tests had to be done. He has many years of experience and talks you through it, manages the process and manages the expectations, timing delivery etc of more complex issues. He's really knowledgeable at what he does, and I got a free consult generally on my home and what would increase efficiencies in my home across the board. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, for the attention to detail and care you put into the work.
DeeGoogle review · Would absolutely recommend Aaron/Total Comfort- he helped me choose which was the best option for our needs, was really friendly, professional, punctual and left the bathroom spotless!
Georgina HughesGoogle review · Aaron simply came to my rental to quote an exhaust fan. I was impressed by his explanations and honesty. He took the time to explain all facets of the task. I ended up asking him to install/service more than just an exhaust fan!
David HenricusBathroom Exhaust Fans · Aaron assisted us to upgrade our mains and conduct some other electrical work in our 70's build house. He was very communicative, informing and provided us with different cost options before going ahead. Great service and professionalism!
Dan BElectrical Mains Upgrades · Aaron was super professional, did a fantastic job fixing my switchboard which was left in a complete mess by the solar / battery installers. Also installed an EV Charger, ceiling fans and replaced a split system. He didn't rush any part of the electrical works and was completely thorough and asked where and how I wanted everything installed.
Garrick WilsonEV Charger Installation · Super efficient service. Aaron explained everything and was able to carry out the work straightaway. Very happy with my new oven. Highly recommended.
PatriciaOven & Cooktop Installation ·