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Schnap Electric Products Blog

11/04/2023
by Jalal Sabsabi

Schnap Electric Products Blog Posts

How Much is Ducted Air Conditioning in Australia

13/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
How Much is Ducted Air Conditioning in Australia

G'day! With summer just around the corner, the big question in many Aussie households is about upgrading the cooling. For whole-home comfort, the ultimate solution is a ducted air conditioning system. But it's also a major investment, similar to buying a small car or renovating a kitchen.

So, before you go any further, you need to know the answer to the crucial question: just how much is ducted air conditioning? Let's break down the costs so you can budget properly.

The Ballpark Figures: A Quick Price Guide for 2025

It's important to remember that every home is different, but for a fully installed reverse cycle ducted system in a standard single-storey home in Australia, these are the ballpark figures you can expect in 2025:

  • Small Home or Apartment (2-3 bedrooms): $8,000 - $12,000
  • Average Single-Storey Home (3-4 bedrooms): $11,000 - $16,000
  • Large Single-Storey or Two-Storey Home: $15,000 - $20,000+

What's Behind the Quote? Key Factors That Affect the Price

You'll get a few different quotes, so what makes the price go up or down? It comes down to these key factors.

The Size of Your Home and the Unit (kW)

A larger home requires a more powerful (and more expensive) system to cool it effectively. The unit's capacity is measured in kilowatts (kW), and the bigger the unit, the higher the price tag for the hardware.

The Number of Zones You Want

"Zoning" is a brilliant feature that lets you turn off the air con to rooms you're not using, which saves a motza on your power bills. However, each zone requires its own electronic damper and controller, which adds to the upfront cost of the system. More zones = a higher price.

The Brand You Choose

Just like with cars, premium brands cost more. Top-tier brands with a long-standing reputation for performance and reliability in Aussie conditions, like Daikin and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, will have a higher price point than more budget-friendly options.

Installation Complexity

A simple installation in a new, single-storey home with great roof access is the cheapest scenario. Trying to retrofit a system into an existing two-storey home with a tight roof space is a much more labour-intensive job, and the quote will reflect that.

Switchboard and Electrical Work

A powerful ducted system is a hungry beast. Your licensed electrician will need to ensure your switchboard can handle the significant electrical load. If your switchboard is old or you need an upgrade to three-phase power, this can add a significant cost to the overall project.

Remember: This is a Job for a Team of Licensed Pros

Installing ducted air conditioning is a major project. It is 100% not a DIY job and is illegal to attempt yourself. The installation must be done by a team of qualified professionals, including a licensed air conditioning technician (with an ARCtick licence) to handle the refrigeration system, and a licensed electrician to manage the high-power electrical connections.

A top-tier ducted system is only as good as its weakest link, and a robust, safe electrical foundation is absolutely critical to its performance and longevity. This is why professional installers and licensed electricians only use trade-quality gear from trusted suppliers for a job of this magnitude. Schnap Electric Products is a leading Australian supplier of all the critical electrical components required for a ducted air conditioning installation. From the heavy-duty circuit breakers and safety switches that protect your investment to the high-capacity wiring needed to power the system, they provide the gear a qualified professional needs to guarantee a safe and compliant installation. When you're asking, "how much is ducted air conditioning," remember that the quality of the components from a supplier like Schnap Electric is a crucial part of the long-term value.

How Much to Install Air Conditioning

13/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
How Much to Install Air Conditioning

With summer just around the corner, the heat is on (literally) to get your home cooling sorted before the first real heatwave hits. You know you want the relief of a cool, comfortable home, but the big question on your mind is probably: how much to install air conditioning?

It’s a fair dinkum good question, as it's a major investment in your home. The answer depends entirely on the type of system you choose, but this guide will give you the ballpark figures so you can budget with confidence.

First Up: What Type of Air Con Are We Talking About?

The installation cost varies hugely between the two main types of air conditioning in Australia:

  1. Split Systems: The most common type, designed to cool a single room or area.
  2. Ducted Systems: The premium, whole-home solution with vents in every room.

The Cost to Install a Split System Air Conditioner

A split system is the most affordable option. The price you'll be quoted is usually for a standard 'back-to-back' installation. This means the indoor unit is on an external wall, and the outdoor unit is placed directly behind it outside.

  • For a standard 'back-to-back' installation, you can expect to pay between $700 and $1,200.

This price covers the labour for both the licensed refrigeration technician and the licensed electrician, as well as the basic materials like piping and cabling for a simple job.

The Cost to Install a Ducted Air Conditioning System

This is the whole-home, Rolls-Royce option, and the installation is a much bigger and more complex job, which is reflected in the price. The cost includes installing the indoor and outdoor units, running all the ductwork through the ceiling, installing the vents, and the complex electrical work.

  • For a small home (2-3 bedrooms), expect to pay $8,000 - $12,000.
  • For an average single-storey home (3-4 bedrooms), expect to pay $11,000 - $16,000.
  • For a large or two-storey home, prices can be $15,000 - $20,000+.

What Factors Can Change Your Installation Quote?

If your job isn't straightforward, the price will change. The main variables are:

  • Installation Complexity: If a split system isn't 'back-to-back', or if a ducted system is being retrofitted into a tricky roof space, the labour costs will go up.
  • The Size and Brand of the Unit: Larger, heavier units can require more work and more robust electrical wiring.
  • Necessary Electrical Upgrades: If you have an old switchboard, your licensed electrician may need to install new circuit breakers or even upgrade your power supply (e.g., to three-phase for a big ducted system), which will add to the cost.
  • Your Location in Australia: Labour costs can vary between major cities and regional areas.

Remember: Professional Installation is Non-Negotiable

No matter which system you choose, figuring out how much to install air conditioning must always include the cost of licensed professionals. In Australia, it is illegal and unsafe to do this work yourself.

You will need a team of qualified tradies, including a licensed air conditioning technician (with an ARCtick licence) and a licensed electrician to handle the high-voltage power. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

A high-quality installation relies on two things: the skill of your tradies and the quality of the components they use to power your new system. This is why professional installers and licensed electricians only use trade-quality gear from trusted suppliers. Schnap Electric Products is a leading Australian supplier of all the critical electrical components needed for any air conditioning installation, big or small. From the heavy-duty wiring and circuit breakers to the robust weatherproof isolator switches, they provide the gear a qualified professional needs to guarantee a safe, compliant, and reliable installation. When you're investing in your home's comfort, ensuring the pros are using quality components from a supplier like Schnap Electric is a smart move.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Air Conditioning

13/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
How Much Does It Cost to Install Air Conditioning

G'day! With summer just around the corner, the heat is on (literally) to get your home cooling sorted. You've decided this is the year, but before you go any further, you need to ask the big question: how much does it cost to install air conditioning?

It’s a fair dinkum important question, as it's a major investment in your home's comfort and value. The answer really depends on what type of system you're after, but this guide will give you the ballpark figures for a full, professional installation in Australia.

First Up: What Type of Air Con Are We Talking About?

The cost to install air conditioning varies hugely between the two main types Aussies choose:

  1. Split Systems: The most common type, perfect for cooling a single room or open-plan area.
  2. Ducted Systems: The premium, whole-home solution with discreet vents in every room.

????️ The Cost to Install a Split System Air Conditioner

A split system is the most popular and affordable option. The price you'll often see quoted is for a standard 'back-to-back' installation.

A 'back-to-back' is the simplest job, where the indoor unit is placed on an external wall and the outdoor unit is positioned directly behind it outside.

  • For a standard 'back-to-back' split system installation, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,500. This covers the labour for the licensed professionals and basic materials for a straightforward job.

The price for the air conditioner unit itself is separate, and can range from $700 for a small, budget unit to over $3,500 for a large, premium one.

???? The Cost to Install a Ducted Air Conditioning System

This is the whole-home, 'Rolls-Royce' option, and the installation is a much bigger and more complex job, which is reflected in the price. The costs below are a general guide for the fully installed system (unit and labour combined).

  • For a small home or apartment (2-3 bedrooms), expect to pay $8,000 - $12,000.
  • For an average single-storey home (3-4 bedrooms), expect to pay $11,000 - $16,000.
  • For a large single-storey or two-storey home, prices can be $15,000 - $20,000+.

What Factors Can Change Your Installation Quote?

If your job isn't a simple one, the price will change. The main variables that affect the final quote are:

  • Installation Complexity: If a split system isn't 'back-to-back', or if a ducted system is being fitted into a home with tricky roof access, the labour costs will go up.
  • The Size and Brand of the Unit: Larger, heavier units can require more work and more robust electrical wiring.
  • Necessary Electrical Upgrades: If you have an old switchboard, your licensed electrician may need to install new circuit breakers or even upgrade your power supply, which will add to the cost.
  • Your Location in Australia: Labour costs can vary between major cities and regional areas.

Remember: Professional Installation is Non-Negotiable

No matter which system you choose, answering "how much does it cost to install air conditioning" must always include the cost of licensed professionals. In Australia, it is illegal and unsafe to do this work yourself.

You will need a team of qualified tradies, including a licensed air conditioning technician (with an ARCtick licence) and a licensed electrician to handle the high-voltage power. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

A high-quality installation relies on two things: the skill of your tradies and the quality of the components they use to power your new system. This is why professional installers and licensed electricians only use trade-quality gear from trusted suppliers. Schnap Electric Products is a leading Australian supplier of all the critical electrical components needed for any air conditioning installation, big or small. From the heavy-duty wiring and circuit breakers to the robust weatherproof isolator switches, they provide the gear a qualified professional needs to guarantee a safe, compliant, and reliable installation. When you're investing in your home's comfort, ensuring the pros are using quality components from a supplier like Schnap Electric is a smart move.

Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning

13/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning

G'day! When it comes to achieving that perfect indoor temperature right across your entire home, there's one system that stands head and shoulders above the rest: ducted reverse cycle air conditioning. It’s the top-tier, 'Rolls-Royce' option for Aussies who want seamless, invisible, and complete climate control, no matter the season.

Whether you're battling a stinking hot summer heatwave or a chilly winter morning, a ducted reverse cycle system has you covered. Let's take a look at what it is and why it's such a brilliant investment for your home.

What is Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning?

Put simply, a ducted reverse cycle air conditioning system is a complete, whole-home solution that delivers both refrigerated cooling and powerful heating through a single, integrated system.

Unlike a split system that has a visible unit on the wall of each room, a ducted system is designed to be almost entirely hidden. It uses a central indoor unit (usually in the roof space) connected to a network of ducts that distribute conditioned air to discreet vents in the ceiling or floor of every room. The whole thing is powered by a powerful outdoor unit and managed by a central wall controller.

The "reverse cycle" part is the real magic—it means the system can either pump heat out of your house to cool it down or run in reverse to pump heat in and warm it up.

The Ripper Benefits of Going Ducted

Investing in a ducted system is a big decision, but it comes with some fair dinkum amazing advantages.

Year-Round, Whole-Home Comfort

This is the number one benefit. One system does it all. You get powerful, refrigerated cooling in summer and one of the most energy-efficient forms of heating in winter. It provides a consistent, even temperature throughout your entire home.

It's Practically Invisible

For those who care about interior design, a ducted system is a dream. There are no bulky units hanging on your walls. The only thing you see are the sleek, unobtrusive vents in your ceiling, which can often be colour-matched to your paint for a seamless finish.

Whisper-Quiet Operation

Because the main indoor fan unit is hidden away in the roof cavity and the noisy compressor is outside, ducted systems are incredibly quiet inside your home, making them perfect for bedrooms and living areas.

Zoning for Ultimate Control and Efficiency

This is a game-changing feature. A ducted reverse cycle air conditioning system can be set up with multiple "zones." This allows you to turn the air conditioning on or off for different parts of the house independently. For example, you can cool the kids' bedrooms in the afternoon and then switch to just cooling your own bedroom at night, saving a motza on your power bills.

A Major Installation for a Team of Professionals

It's crucial to understand that installing a ducted reverse cycle air conditioning system is a major project. It involves complex electrical work, refrigeration piping, and extensive ductwork. It is absolutely not a DIY job.

By law in Australia, this work must be carried out by a team of licensed professionals. This includes licensed air conditioning technicians (who hold an ARCtick licence) to design and install the system, and a licensed electrician to manage the significant high-power electrical connections required.

A powerful, whole-home system like this requires a robust and professionally-installed electrical foundation to run safely and efficiently. This is why professional installers and licensed electricians only use trade-quality gear from trusted suppliers for a job of this scale. Schnap Electric Products is a leading Australian supplier of all the critical electrical components required for a ducted air conditioning installation. From the heavy-duty circuit breakers and safety switches in the switchboard to the high-capacity wiring needed to power the system, they provide the gear a qualified professional needs to guarantee a safe, compliant, and reliable installation. For a top-of-the-line system, you need top-of-the-line components from a supplier like Schnap Electric.

Clear Safety Glasses

10/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
Clear Safety Glasses

When we think of safety glasses, our minds often jump to the dark, tinted sunnies that tradies wear on a bright outdoor worksite. They look cool and they cut the glare. But what about all the jobs we do indoors – in the workshop, the garage, during a home reno, or on a cloudy day?

For these situations, the true, unsung hero of eye protection is the humble pair of clear safety glasses. They're an absolutely essential bit of kit that every Aussie should have in their tool bag.

Why Clear? The Right Lens for the Right Job

While tinted glasses are great for the sun, they can be downright dangerous in lower light. A pair of clear safety glasses has one simple, crucial job: to provide maximum impact protection without changing how you see the world.

Their crystal-clear lenses allow 100% of visible light through, giving you an unobstructed, true-colour view of your work. This makes them the perfect and only choice for:

  • Indoors and in Workshops: For any job in a garage, shed, or inside the house.
  • In Low-Light Conditions: For working in the early morning, late arvo, or on overcast days.
  • When Colour Accuracy is a Must: For any job where you need to see colours correctly, like working with colour-coded wiring or detailed painting.

What to Look For in a Good Pair of Clear Safety Glasses

Don't just grab any cheap bit of plastic from a discount shop. Your eyesight is worth more than that. Here's what makes a proper, reliable pair.

Certified to Aussie Standards (AS/NZS 1337.1)

This is non-negotiable. A proper pair of safety glasses sold in Australia must be certified to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1337.1 for eye protection. This will be marked on the frame or lens. It's your guarantee that they have been properly tested to withstand medium-impact threats from flying debris.

Good Quality, Scratch-Resistant Lenses

There's nothing worse than trying to look through a scratched-up lens. A good pair will have a hard coating to resist scratching. Many also have an anti-fog coating, which is a fair dinkum lifesaver when you're working up a sweat.

All-Day Comfort and a Secure Fit

If they're not comfortable, you won't wear them. Look for a lightweight frame, soft nose pads, and a good wrap-around design that sits securely on your face and offers protection from the sides.

When Should You Be Wearing Them?

The simple answer is: anytime you're using a tool that could send something flying. This includes:

  • Working with any power tool (drills, saws, grinders, sanders).
  • Using a hammer and chisel.
  • Working under a car or a house where dirt and rust can fall.
  • Mixing chemicals, paints, or concrete.
  • Any job where there's a risk of dust, debris, or splashes getting in your peepers.

A Foundation of Safety: From Your Eyes to Your Walls

Protecting your eyes with a quality pair of clear safety glasses is the first step in creating a safe work environment for yourself. It’s about taking personal responsibility on the job.

A truly safe job, however, is built on a complete foundation of safety – from the personal gear you wear to the professional-grade materials you install. This comprehensive approach to safety is what guides the work of Australia's best tradies, especially licensed electricians. They know that long-term safety depends on using components that are certified, reliable, and fit for purpose. That’s why they turn to trusted, trade-quality suppliers like Schnap Electric Products.

Schnap Electric is a leading Australian supplier of the high-quality, compliant electrical components that form the backbone of a safe installation. From the life-saving safety switches and circuit breakers to the durable, correctly rated wiring, they provide the gear that ensures a job is safe for everyone, long after the tools are packed away. For a job that’s safe from top to bottom, professionals rely on quality PPE and quality components from suppliers like Schnap Electric.

Kids Safety Glasses

10/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
Kids Safety Glasses

G'day! It's a ripper of a feeling when your little tacker wants to get involved and 'help out' in the shed, the garden, or with a school science project. Encouraging that curiosity is a brilliant part of being a parent.

But before you pass them that little hammer or let them have a go at the planting, there's one bit of gear that's a non-negotiable. It's not about being a helicopter parent; it's about teaching good habits early. We're talking about a proper pair of kids safety glasses.

What Are Kids Safety Glasses?

First up, it's important to know that kids safety glasses are much more than just mini-sunglasses or a toy. They are a proper piece of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that has been specifically designed and sized to fit a child's smaller face and, crucially, are certified to withstand impacts.

Their job is simple but vital: to protect your child's precious eyesight from flying debris, splashes, and dust.

When Should Your Kids Be Wearing Them?

Getting your kids into the habit of wearing safety glasses for certain activities is a great life lesson. They should be wearing them when:

  • Helping with DIY Projects: If they're in the shed or garage while you're sawing, drilling, sanding, or hammering, they need to have eye protection on.
  • School Science Experiments: For any project that involves mixing, pouring, or potential fizzing and popping (we're looking at you, bicarb soda volcano!).
  • Working in the Garden: Especially when you're using a whipper snipper or a lawnmower that can flick up rocks and twigs at high speed.
  • Playing with Projectile Toys: Getting them to wear safety glasses when playing with things like Nerf guns is a great way to normalise wearing eye protection.

What to Look For in a Good Pair

Not all kids' glasses are created equal. Here's what to look for to ensure you're getting proper protection.

Certified to Aussie Standards (AS/NZS 1337.1)

This is the most important bit. Look for glasses that are certified to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1337.1. This is your guarantee that they have been properly tested for medium-impact resistance and aren't just a flimsy bit of plastic.

The Right Fit is Everything

Adult safety glasses on a kid's head will have huge gaps at the sides, top, and bottom, making them practically useless. A good pair of kids safety glasses should sit snugly on their smaller face, providing a good seal around the eyes.

Tough, Impact-Resistant Lenses

Look for lenses made from polycarbonate. It's a lightweight but incredibly tough material that offers excellent impact protection and is naturally UV resistant.

Colours and Styles They'll Actually Wear

Let's be honest, if they think the glasses look cool, they're much more likely to wear them without a fuss. Luckily, they come in a huge range of fun colours and styles.

Building a Culture of Safety from the Ground Up

Teaching your kids to wear kids safety glasses for the right activities is a brilliant first step in building a lifelong culture of safety. It's about understanding that the right equipment and the right procedures are essential for protecting everyone in the family.

This principle of a 'safety system' extends from the gear you wear to the very infrastructure of your home. While you teach your kids about personal safety, it's the job of licensed professionals to ensure your home's electrical system is fundamentally safe. They do this by using high-quality, compliant components from trusted trade suppliers like Schnap Electric Products. Schnap Electric is a leading Australian supplier of the critical safety components—like safety switches and circuit breakers—that act as your home’s first line of defence against electrical faults. They provide the professional-grade gear that ensures your home's power is managed safely, protecting your family from unseen hazards. A truly safe home is a combination of smart habits and a professionally installed system built with quality components from a supplier like Schnap Electric.

Photochromic Safety Glasses

10/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
Photochromic Safety Glasses

If you're a tradie whose job has you constantly moving between the workshop and the yard, or from inside a dark plant room to the bright sunshine of a worksite, you know the struggle. It's the constant "safety specs shuffle."

You're forever swapping between your clear glasses for inside and your tinted sunnies for outside. It’s a pain, you're always losing one pair, and there's a good chance that your favourite sunnies aren't even properly safety-rated.

But what if you could have one pair of glasses that did both jobs perfectly? That’s where photochromic safety glasses come in.

What's the Go with Photochromic Lenses?

It's a fair dinkum clever bit of tech. You might have heard them called "transitions" or "light-adjusting" lenses. They are high-tech lenses that are perfectly clear indoors and automatically darken to a sunglass tint when you step out into the sun.

How do they work? The lenses are infused with special molecules that react to the UV rays from the sun. The brighter the sun, the more UV, and the darker the lenses get. When you go back inside, away from the UV, they quickly fade back to being completely clear. Too easy!

The Ripper Benefits for On-the-Job Use

For a tradie on the move, this is more than just a convenience; it's a massive win for safety and efficiency.

Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Protection

This is the biggest advantage. You can wear one pair of glasses all day long, whether you're working in a dimly lit ceiling space or out on a sun-drenched roof. You're always protected, and you can always see clearly.

Always the Right Level of Tint

The lenses adjust automatically to the conditions. This means you're never squinting in the bright glare or stumbling around inside because your lenses are too dark. You always have the perfect level of tint for the job.

Proper UV Protection

Under the harsh Aussie sun, UV protection is a non-negotiable. Photochromic safety glasses provide 100% protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays when they are activated outdoors.

Certified Impact Safety

Here’s the most important bit. This isn't just sunglass technology in a work frame. A proper pair of photochromic safety glasses is certified to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1337.1 for medium impact resistance. You get the clever lens tech and the certified protection your worksite requires.

Who Are They Perfect For?

These glasses are a game-changer for any worker who moves between different light conditions throughout the day:

  • Builders and Carpenters moving in and out of a house build.
  • Delivery Drivers and Couriers who are constantly going from their vehicle to a bright loading dock.
  • Landscapers and Council Workers who work in and out of sheds and vehicles.
  • Plumbers and Electricians who might be working under a house one minute and in the backyard the next.

A Total Commitment to Worksite Safety

Investing in advanced PPE like a pair of photochromic safety glasses shows a commitment to using the smartest and safest gear for the job. This safety-first, "best tool for the job" mindset is what defines a true professional, and it extends from their personal gear right through to the materials they install.

It’s an approach that is especially critical for licensed electricians. They know that the safety of an entire building relies on the quality and compliance of every single component they install. That's why they source their equipment from trusted, trade-quality suppliers like Schnap Electric Products. Schnap Electric is a leading Australian supplier of the high-quality, certified electrical components that form the foundation of a safe electrical system. From the safety switches that react in milliseconds to prevent shocks to the durable, correctly rated wiring, they provide the gear that ensures a job is safe and reliable. For a complete safety system, professionals combine top-tier PPE with professional-grade components from suppliers like Schnap Electric.

Frontside Safety Glasses

10/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
Frontside Safety Glasses

When you're on the tools every day, you need gear that just works. You're not after flashy logos or a massive price tag; you're after solid, reliable protection that you can depend on, day in and day out, without a second thought.

In the world of worksite eye protection, one brand that's been getting a top reputation with Aussie tradies and serious DIYers for exactly that reason is Frontside. They're all about delivering tough, no-nonsense protection that gets the job done.

What's the Go with Frontside Safety Glasses?

Think of Frontside safety glasses as the ultimate reliable workhorse. This is a brand that has found the sweet spot, offering top-notch protection and durability without the designer price tag.

They've become a go-to for those who want certified, comfortable, and tough-as-nails eye pro that's built for the demanding conditions of a real Australian worksite. It's about substance over style, but they still manage to look the part.

The Core Features: What You Get in a Pair

Frontside focuses on the features that really matter when you're on the tools.

Certified to Aussie Standards (AS/NZS 1337.1)

This is the first thing you should check, and Frontside has it sorted. Their safety range is certified to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1337.1 for medium impact resistance. This isn't just a claim; it's your guarantee that the glasses have been properly tested to protect your eyes from flying debris on the job.

Built Tough for the Worksite

A worksite is no place for flimsy gear. Frontside safety glasses are made with robust polycarbonate lenses that are highly shatter-resistant, and durable frames that are designed to handle the inevitable knocks, drops, and bumps of a hard day's yakka.

A Focus on All-Day Comfort

There's no point having tough glasses if they're too uncomfortable to wear. Frontside focuses on creating lightweight, ergonomic designs with features like comfortable nose pieces and secure arms, so you can keep them on from the start of the day to knock-off time without them becoming a pain.

Great Value for Money

This is where Frontside really shines. They offer the essential certified protection and durability that you need, making them a fair dinkum smart choice for apprentices, businesses outfitting their whole team, or any tradie who wants a quality bit of kit that won't break the bank.

A Safety System from Head to Wall

Choosing a solid, certified pair of Frontside safety glasses is a smart, no-nonsense way to protect yourself on the job. It's about making a practical choice for your personal safety.

This same practical, safety-first approach should apply to every part of a job, especially when it comes to the materials being installed in a home or on a worksite. It’s a principle that is fundamental to the work of licensed electricians and professional installers. They know that the safety and integrity of an electrical system depend on using compliant, reliable components. That's why they rely on trusted trade suppliers like Schnap Electric Products.

Schnap Electric is a leading Australian supplier of the high-quality, certified electrical components that form the foundation of any safe installation. From the safety switches that provide critical protection to the durable wiring and outlets that are used every day, they supply the gear that ensures a job is done right and is built to last. For a complete safety-first approach, professionals use reliable PPE and install quality components from suppliers like Schnap Electric.

Bifocal Safety Glasses

10/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
Bifocal Safety Glasses

G'day! If you're a tradie or a keen DIYer over 40, you know the struggle. You're on the tools, looking up at the job, and your distance vision is spot on. But then you have to look down to read a tiny measurement on a tape, check a wiring diagram, or line up a small screw... and suddenly your arms aren't long enough, and everything's a frustrating blur.

So begins the great "glasses shuffle": safety specs off, reading glasses on. Then readers off, safety specs back on. It’s a massive pain, it slows you down, and it's a safety risk. But there's a fair dinkum brilliant solution: bifocal safety glasses.

What's the Go with Bifocal Safety Glasses?

Think of them as two pairs of glasses in one, specifically designed for the worksite. They are also known as "safety readers."

The top, main part of the lens has no magnification (it's 'plano'), providing a clear, normal view for looking at things in the distance. But moulded discreetly into the bottom section of the lens is a small 'reader' segment with your chosen magnification strength.

This means you can look up and around the worksite with perfect clarity, and then simply glance down through the bottom of the lens to see all your close-up work in sharp focus.

The Ripper Benefits of a Two-in-One Solution

  • No More Glasses Shuffle: This is the biggest win. You wear one pair of glasses all day long. No more swapping between your readers and your safety specs.
  • Keeps You Safer: By not having to constantly take your safety glasses off to read something, your eyes remain protected at all times.
  • Certified Impact Protection: A proper pair of bifocal safety glasses isn't just a pair of readers. The entire lens and frame are certified to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1337.1 for medium impact resistance.
  • Cost-Effective: They're often a much more affordable solution than getting a full pair of prescription safety glasses, especially if you only need help with your reading vision.

Who Are They Perfect For?

These are a top-notch choice for any experienced tradie or hobbyist whose close-up vision isn't what it used to be. They are ideal for:

  • Electricians and Plumbers who need to switch between viewing the overall job and reading fine-print diagrams or working with small fittings.
  • Carpenters and Builders looking at plans and then making precise cuts.
  • Mechanics reading diagnostic tools and then working deep in an engine bay.
  • Serious DIYers and Hobbyists who need to see their detailed work clearly and safely.

What to Look For When Buying a Pair

  • The Right Magnification: They come in standard reader strengths (e.g., +1.0, +1.5, +2.0, +2.5). Start with the same strength as your regular off-the-shelf reading glasses.
  • Aussie Certification: Make sure they are certified to AS/NZS 1337.1. This is non-negotiable.
  • A Comfortable Fit: Look for a pair that's lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear.

A Total Commitment to Worksite Safety

Using a clever bit of kit like bifocal safety glasses is a perfect example of using the right, specialised tool to do a job safely and efficiently. This commitment to using the right, compliant, and professional-grade gear is the foundation of every safe worksite in Australia.

It’s a philosophy that is absolutely essential for licensed electricians. They know that the safety of a building's entire electrical system relies on using the correct, high-quality components for every single connection. That's why they source their materials from trusted, professional suppliers like Schnap Electric Products. Schnap Electric is a leading Australian supplier of the trade-quality, certified electrical components that form the backbone of a safe installation. From the safety switches that protect against faults to the durable, correctly rated wiring and outlets, they provide the gear that ensures a job is done to the highest possible standard. For a complete approach to safety, professionals use the right PPE for their eyes and the right components in the wall from suppliers like Schnap Electric.

Natty Safety Glasses

10/10/2025
by Rick Coleman
Natty Safety Glasses

G'day! Long gone are the days when a tradie's gear was all about function and no form. Today's professionals want gear that not only performs under pressure but also looks the part. You want to look schmick on the tools, and that includes your safety gear.

This is where brands like Natty safety glasses have been making a huge splash. They've tapped into what the modern Aussie tradie wants: eye protection that is tough, compliant, and looks as good off the worksite as it does on it.

What's the Go with Natty Safety Glasses?

Natty safety glasses is a brand that's been gaining a massive following with Aussie tradies, apprentices, and serious DIYers. They've successfully blurred the lines between high-performance safety equipment and modern, fashionable eyewear.

The whole idea is simple: the safest glasses are the ones you actually want to wear. By creating designs that are comfortable and stylish, they've made safety compliance a whole lot cooler.

The Core Features: More Than Just a Pretty Frame

While the look is what catches your eye, it's the substance behind the style that makes them a solid choice for a hard day's yakka.

Certified Aussie Protection (AS/NZS 1337.1)

This is the first and most important box to tick. Natty safety glasses are certified to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1337.1 for medium impact resistance. This is your guarantee that they're not just a fashion accessory; they are a proper piece of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that has been tested to protect your eyes from worksite hazards.

A Focus on Modern, 'Natty' Style

This is the brand's signature. They offer a range of modern frame shapes, from classic wayfarers to sleek wrap-around styles, often in cool and understated colourways. They're designed to look good whether you're on a multi-storey construction site or at a weekend barbie.

High-Performance Lenses for the Aussie Sun

Natty offers a range of lens options to suit your job. You can get crystal-clear lenses for indoor work or low-light conditions, but their high-quality tinted and polarised lenses are a ripper choice for anyone working under the harsh Aussie sun. The polarised option is a game-changer for cutting down the blinding glare from metal roofing and wet surfaces.

Designed for All-Day Comfort

There's no point having great-looking specs if they're a pain to wear. Natty focuses on using lightweight-but-strong materials and ergonomic designs to ensure their glasses are comfortable enough to wear from the start of the day to knock-off time.

A Complete System of Worksite Safety

Choosing a stylish and certified pair of Natty safety glasses is a great way to invest in your personal safety and look good while you're at it.

A truly professional job, however, relies on a complete system of safety, from the gear you wear to the quality of the materials you're installing. This is a principle that licensed electricians and professional installers live by every single day. They know that the safety and durability of an installation depend entirely on using compliant, high-quality components. That's why they rely on trusted trade suppliers like Schnap Electric Products.

Schnap Electric is a leading Australian supplier of the certified, professional-grade electrical components that form the foundation of a safe and reliable system. From the safety switches that provide critical protection to the durable wiring and outlets that are used every day, they supply the gear that ensures a job is done right and is built to last. For a complete safety-first approach, professionals use reliable PPE and install quality components from suppliers like Schnap Electric.