Surge Protection

Power surges happen without warning. Though usually not series, they can be inconvenient. Surges usually occur when you are running too many appliances at the same time or plugging in too many appliances into a socket. Some surges are the result of electrical issues we can’t control like work being done outside of your home by utility crews or downed power lines or lightning.

Surges often require fixing a circuit breaker, while others can cause serious damage to your home, such as a lightning strike that surges through your tv or computer. Having the right whole house surge protection is the first step in protecting your home and your valuables from surge damage.

Here are some helpful hints to help you know which surge protector is right for your house.

What Are Electrical Power Surges?

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You have likely experienced a power surge in the past. A surge occurs when there is a sudden spike in your electrical system’s current. It can take only a couple of seconds, but the damage can be long-term and costly.

The most common cause of power surges are:

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  • Faulty Appliances – Old or unused appliances that do not meet proper electrical codes.
  • Bad or Faulty Wiring – Old or poorly installed wiring that is not up to code or has been damaged.
  • Tripped Circuit Breakers – Often the result of power surges commonly referred to as ‘blown fuses’.
  • Downed Power Lines or Surges at The Power Lines – Fallen or damaged power lines can cause a surge in the system and damage one or many homes.
  • Lightning Strikes – Lightning can enter your home’s electrical system causing significant damage.

Though usually a rare occurrence, if you notice regular power surges, it may be time to examine your electrical system for issues.

Why Are They Dangerous

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Most power surges are harmless and inconvenient. You may experience a power outage or flickering of your lights. In more serious cases, power surges can lead to damage to your home such as fire or destroying an electrical appliance.

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Power surges may also be dangerous because they are usually a sign of a more significant electrical problem, which could lead to electrocution or death. It is important to consult an expert if you are experiencing frequent power surges. They can determine the source of the power surges and make the necessary repair suggestions and get your electrical system operating properly again.

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Never attempt to make any electrical changes to your home without first consulting with a qualified electrician. This could result in serious injury.

Why Does My Home Need Surge Protection?

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Most people don’t understand the risks of power surges until the damage is done. Our homes are filled with appliances and electronics that require significant power to operate such as ovens, vacuums, and even your digital devices. A power surge from the home’s interior or exterior can cause significant damage to these valuable appliances, leaving you with costly repair and replacement bills.

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More frequent severe weather means homes are also more likely to experience surges resulting from lightning stores and downed power lines. If your home is struck by lightning, it can run through your entire electrical system and destroy anything in its path.

Home surge protection can ensure your home is prepared for any type of electrical surge, leaving your valuables safe and protected.

Whole House Surge Protection

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Surge protection is an affordable and easy way to protect your home and belongings from damage. There are two main ways to protect your home that ensure you are getting complete and effective protection.

  • Primary Protection – This type of surge protection protects your home at the source of electrical power, the electric panel.
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  • Secondary Protection – This protection is the easiest way of keeping your electronics safe. Surge protection is installed where your electrical components are plugged in such as outlets and stove hookups.
  • Whole House – surge protectors usually last about 3 years and should be inspected and replaced regularly to ensure you are maintaining full protection. This high level of protection both inside and out will keep your home safe from sudden surges.

Electrical Panel Surge Protector

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We have explained the ways you can protect your home from surge damage. The most important of these being electrical panel surge protection or primary protection. Surge protection in this location protects your large appliances from damage such as HVAC, stoves, dryers, washers, dishwashers, computers, and fridges. An electrician can help you decide the best type of panel surge protection for your home based on your lifestyle and the type of electronic devices you use. Never try to open an electrical panel without consulting an expert.

The professional electricians at One Time Electric can help you discover how you can protect your valuables from electrical surge damage. Affordable and effective surge protection is the best choice for whole house surge protection. Contact us today for a free quote.

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FAQ

What is the purpose of home surge protection?

Home surge protection is an important safety measure that can help to protect your home’s electrical system from damage. Surges can occur when there is a sudden increase in the amount of electricity flowing through the system, often as a result of a power outage or severe weather. When these surges occur, they can cause damage to electrical appliances and equipment, as well as cause fires.

The purpose of home surge protection is to allow safe electrical currents to pass through while blocking dangerous high currents or voltage from entering the system. This can help to prevent damage to your home and keep your family safe.

Do surge protectors last forever?

Unfortunately, surge protectors don’t last forever. The average lifespan of a surge protector is estimated to last 3 to 5 years. And if your home is subject to frequent brownouts or blackouts, you might want to replace your surge protectors as often as every two years. Thankfully, most surge protectors are relatively inexpensive, so replacing them on a regular basis is not a major financial burden.

What causes a power surge?

Power surges can originate from the electric utility company during power grid switching, from lightning, or from inside a home when large appliances like air conditioners and refrigerator motors turn on and off. 

In order to protect your appliances and electronics from damage, it is important to have surge protectors in place. Surge protectors work by absorbing the excess energy from a power surge and then safely releasing it into the ground. This protects your devices by preventing them from being overloaded with too much electricity. While surge protectors cannot completely eliminate the risk of damage from a power surge, they can greatly reduce the amount of damage that may occur.

Can a surge protector cause a fire?

A surge protector is a device that helps protect your home against electrical surges. Surges can damage your electronics and appliances, and in some cases, they can even cause fires. While surge protectors can be a helpful way to safeguard your home, they are not without their risks. If a surge protector is damaged or worn, it can overheat, potentially causing a fire.

That’s why it’s important to inspect your surge protector regularly and replace it if it shows signs of wear or damage. You should also avoid using extension cords with surge protectors, as this can also increase the risk of fire. By taking these precautions, you can help to ensure that your surge protector doesn’t become a fire hazard itself.

What happens if a surge protector is overloaded?

Overloading a power strip is a common mistake that can have dangerous consequences. When too much power is drawn through the strip, it can cause the strip to overheat, potentially leading to a fire.

This is why it’s so important to check the load capacity of your power strip before plugging in multiple devices. If you’re unsure of the capacity, err on the side of caution and choose a different strip or plugs. Additionally, be sure to regularly check your power strips for signs of wear or damage. If you see any frayed wires or loose connections, shut off the power immediately and contact a qualified electrician.